Dusty May Commends Ben McCollum After Tight Michigan Win Over Iowa

Dusty May lauded the work of Ben McCollum after No. 3 Michigan edged the Iowa Hawkeyes 71-68 on Thursday night. The Wolverines’ head coach, in his second season at Michigan, has guided the team to a standout campaign as they remain in contention for a national championship.

May highlighted McCollum’s immediate impact in his first year at Iowa, noting how the Hawkeyes have maintained an energetic, competitive style reminiscent of traditional Big Ten basketball. McCollum arrived in Iowa after a successful season at Drake, where he led the Bulldogs to 31 wins and a second-round appearance in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.

The praise reflects May’s recognition of the challenges posed by McCollum, who has quickly established himself in a strong Big Ten environment. May called the Hawkeyes’ style “pressing, energetic” and predicted the team will continue to be a formidable presence in the conference.

Despite Iowa’s toughness, Michigan’s persistence ultimately secured the road win, with multiple players contributing in double figures and reinforcing the Wolverines’ status as one of the nation’s top programs.

1. McCollum’s Early Success at Iowa

Ben McCollum has quickly made an impression in his first season leading the Hawkeyes. After moving from Drake, where he compiled a 31-win season, he has already brought Iowa to the 20-win mark and created a high-energy, competitive environment. May specifically cited the Hawkeyes’ pressing style and team intensity as reminiscent of the Dr. Tom Davis era, a hallmark of Iowa basketball’s historical identity. This consistency on both ends of the floor has made Iowa a challenging opponent for top-tier teams like Michigan. McCollum’s ability to quickly implement a successful system highlights his coaching acumen, particularly in a competitive Big Ten landscape. Players have adapted well to his philosophy, and Iowa’s strong season record reflects his immediate influence. By blending tradition with modern tactics, McCollum is building a program capable of competing for top positions in the conference, earning respect from opponents and analysts alike.

2. Michigan’s Balanced Attack

While McCollum and Iowa earned praise, Michigan showcased a balanced offensive attack to secure the narrow victory. Four Wolverines scored in double figures, demonstrating depth and versatility. Yaxel Lendeborg led the team with 16 points, eight rebounds, two assists, one steal, and a block, shooting efficiently from the field and beyond the arc. Morez Johnson Jr. added 16 points and eight rebounds, while Aday Mara contributed 14 points and eight boards. Elliot Cadeau chipped in 11 points along with nine assists, orchestrating the offense effectively. The collective effort allowed Michigan to withstand Iowa’s persistent pressure and maintain control down the stretch. The balanced scoring and defensive poise underscored why the Wolverines are among the nation’s elite. These contributions reflect May’s leadership and the depth of the roster, with multiple players capable of stepping up in crucial moments. Michigan’s ability to respond under pressure is a major factor in their continued success.

3. Looking Ahead to Big Matchups

Michigan improved to 28-2 overall and 18-1 in Big Ten play with the win, solidifying its hold on the conference’s top spot. They are ahead of Michigan State and Illinois in the standings, positioning themselves strongly for postseason seeding. The Wolverines now turn their attention to the regular-season finale, a high-stakes in-state showdown with No. 8 Michigan State on March 8 at 4:30 p.m. ET. The matchup carries significance for both conference bragging rights and national ranking considerations. For Dusty May and his squad, sustaining momentum and executing against top competition will be key as the Big Ten tournament and NCAA Tournament approach. The team’s depth and versatility, combined with leadership from players like Cadeau and Lendeborg, will be tested in critical moments. Michigan’s ability to continue performing under pressure while preparing for marquee matchups will ultimately define its prospects for a deep postseason run and a potential national championship.