The Indiana Hoosiers basketball program is at a crossroads. With Mike Woodson stepping down at the end of the 2024-25 season, Indiana is in search of a head coach who can restore the program’s former dominance. Among the top contenders are Ben McCollum, the rising star who has taken Drake University by storm, and Brad Brownell, the seasoned leader who has built a strong program at Clemson. Both candidates offer unique strengths, but who is best suited to take the Hoosiers back to national relevance?
Ben McCollum’s Case: The Rising Star
Ben McCollum’s name has been gaining serious traction in coaching circles. The 43-year-old coach made his mark at Northwest Missouri State, leading the program to four Division II national championships before making the jump to Division I with Drake University. In just his first season at Drake, McCollum guided the Bulldogs to a remarkable 30-3 record, securing both the Missouri Valley Conference regular-season and tournament titles. His immediate success at the Division I level has caught the attention of Indiana’s athletic director, Scott Dolson.
McCollum’s coaching philosophy is built on efficiency, disciplined play, and strong fundamentals. His teams are known for their offensive execution, precise ball movement, and tough defensive schemes. His ability to quickly transform Drake into a mid-major powerhouse suggests he could do the same for Indiana on a much bigger stage.
One of the biggest arguments in favor of McCollum is his potential. While he lacks the extensive high-major experience of Brownell, his rapid success at every level suggests he could bring a fresh, dynamic approach to Indiana. Hiring McCollum would be a gamble on an emerging talent, but it could pay off in a big way if he proves capable of recruiting top-tier talent and competing in the Big Ten.
Brad Brownell’s Case: The Proven Veteran
On the other side of the debate is Brad Brownell, a coach with a wealth of experience at the high-major level. Brownell has been the head coach at Clemson since 2010, guiding the program to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run in 2018 and an Elite Eight appearance last season. With another strong campaign in 2025, Clemson has solidified itself as a top-tier ACC program under his leadership.
Brownell’s coaching style emphasizes defensive toughness and disciplined play. His teams are known for their ability to compete against elite programs, often outperforming expectations in one of college basketball’s toughest conferences. Unlike McCollum, Brownell has already proven that he can build and sustain a competitive program at the highest level.
Another advantage for Brownell is his Indiana roots. He was born in Evansville and played college basketball at DePauw University, giving him deep ties to the state’s basketball culture. That connection could help him on the recruiting trail, as he understands the passion and expectations surrounding Indiana basketball. Hiring Brownell would provide stability and experience, ensuring that the Hoosiers have a coach who knows how to navigate the challenges of a major conference.
Who Has the Edge?
The choice between McCollum and Brownell ultimately comes down to what Indiana prioritizes in its next coach.
If Indiana wants an exciting, high-upside hire, McCollum is the choice. His rapid rise and innovative coaching approach make him an intriguing candidate who could energize the program. However, his lack of Power Five experience is a concern.
If Indiana values experience and a proven track record, Brownell has the edge. He has demonstrated success at a high level, understands Indiana basketball, and could provide stability. However, he may not bring the same level of excitement as McCollum.
Conclusion
Both McCollum and Brownell have strong cases to become Indiana’s next head coach, and the decision will shape the program’s future. If Indiana wants to take a bold step forward, McCollum’s upside is hard to ignore. But if the Hoosiers prefer a more established leader, Brownell’s experience makes him a safe and reliable choice.
As the coaching search continues, one thing is clear: Indiana needs a leader who can restore the program to its former glory. Whether it’s the rising star or the proven veteran, the next head coach will have the enormous task of bringing Indiana basketball back to the national stage
