Iowa Basketball Starts 3-0 with Dominant Win Over Xavier Under New Coach

The Iowa Hawkeyes men’s basketball team is undefeated under first-year head coach Ben McCollum. They secured a decisive 81-62 home victory against the Xavier Musketeers on Thursday night. The win at Carver-Hawkeye Arena marks the team’s first major test of the young season. It sends a strong message about the program’s new defensive identity.

McCollum’s squad improved to a perfect 3-0 record. The victory was built on overwhelming physicality and rebounding dominance. According to the Associated Press, Iowa’s performance showcased a clear stylistic shift from previous seasons.

Hawkeyes Control the Game Through Defense and Rebounding

The game was tied 22-22 midway through the first half. A dunk by Bennett Stirtz then ignited a game-changing 23-6 run for Iowa. The Hawkeyes never looked back, entering halftime with a commanding 45-29 lead.

Xavier made a small run early in the second half. They cut the deficit to nine points. Iowa responded immediately and maintained a double-digit lead for the remainder of the contest.

Iowa’s defensive effort was the story. They held Xavier to just 36% shooting from the field. The Hawkeyes also dominated the glass with a staggering 41-24 rebounding advantage.

New System Prioritizes Paint Dominance Over Three-Point Barrage

The statistical profile reveals McCollum’s new philosophy. Iowa attempted only 11 three-pointers, making just three. Instead, they relentlessly attacked the basket, outscoring Xavier 50-26 in the paint.

This is a stark departure from the fast-paced, high-volume shooting teams of recent years. The focus is now on toughness and efficient interior scoring. Stirtz led all scorers with 21 points, with most coming on drives to the hoop.

The bench was another major factor. Reserves outscored Xavier’s bench 34-11, providing crucial energy. Ten different Hawkeyes scored, demonstrating impressive depth early in the season.

This 3-0 start provides tangible evidence that the new Iowa basketball system can work against high-major competition. The foundation of defense and rebounding looks promising for the tough Big Ten schedule ahead.

Info at your fingertips

Who is the new Iowa basketball coach?

Ben McCollum is the new head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes. He was hired this past offseason to rebuild the program. McCollum is known for building a defensive-minded culture.

How did Iowa beat Xavier?

Iowa won with superior rebounding and defense. They outrebounded Xavier by 17 and dominated scoring in the paint. The Hawkeyes also got significant contributions from their bench players.

Who was the leading scorer for Iowa?

Guard Bennett Stirtz led all scorers with 21 points. He added 8 rebounds in a complete performance. His aggression driving to the basket set the tone for the offense.

What does this win mean for Iowa’s season?

It’s an early confidence booster against a power-conference opponent. It validates the team’s new defensive approach. However, the long-term test will be consistency in Big Ten play.

What is Iowa’s next game?

The Hawkeyes continue their homestand against Southeast Missouri State. The game is scheduled for Tuesday night in Iowa City. It is another non-conference tune-up before league play.