Ben McCollum has become an extremely hot commodity in the college basketball coaching world.
Even though there has been rampant speculation about Ben McCollum's future in Iowa City, he has constantly slammed the door shut.
McCollum was a name to watch for the North Carolina vacancy before he immediately shut down those rumors, declining an interview invitation.
After Iowa's imporbable trip to the Elite 8 this past season, the rumor mill isn't going to stop, but Iowa athletic director Beth Goetz is trying to squash any future possibilites of McCollum being enticed to go elsewhere.
Beth Goetz confirmed a contract extension for McCollum is in the works
McCollum initially signed a six-year contract in 2025 for $3.35 million, which runs through 2031, and is set to increase to $4.1 million in the final year.
McCollum's success in year one combined with the increased interest he is receiving from other programs has prompted Beth Goetz to respond by jumping on a contract extension to keep him around for as long as possible.
Beth Goetz confirms that Iowa is working on a contract extension for Ben McCollum: “He had a heck of a season and I think it certainly makes sense that we would look to make sure we can continue to help him build a championship culture here at Iowa.” https://t.co/nGoRFxiMED
— Tyler Tachman (@Tyler_T15) April 7, 2026
According to the Des Moines Register's Tyler Tachman, Goetz confirmed they are working not only on a contract extension but also on adding more money to the original deal.
When she was asked about whether the deal would contain more money and/or more years, she responded, "Yes. That would be the answer to both those questions."
She also added that they are in "a really good place," and when they are ready to execute the deal, they will go public with the information.
A contract extension for McCollum is music to the ears of all Hawkeye supporters, and everyone can breathe a little easier that he isn't looking for an early exit.