Did Indiana Jump the Gun? Drake’s Ben McCollum Could Have Been the Hoosiers’ Perfect Fix After a Cinderella Run
As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, one of the biggest surprises is the remarkable performance of the Drake Bulldogs. Under the leadership of head coach Ben McCollum, Drake is making a case as this year’s Cinderella team, defying expectations and proving they belong on college basketball’s biggest stage. Meanwhile, the Indiana Hoosiers, a program struggling to reclaim its former glory, might be watching with a hint of regret.
Indiana, one of the most storied programs in college basketball history, recently made a coaching hire in an attempt to turn things around. However, with McCollum showcasing his coaching prowess in the tournament, some are beginning to question whether the Hoosiers acted too soon. Could McCollum have been the right man to lead Indiana back to prominence?
Drake’s Cinderella Run: A Coaching Masterclass
McCollum, in his first season at Drake, has quickly made an impact. His tactical adjustments, ability to develop players, and winning mentality have helped the Bulldogs navigate the intense competition of March Madness. His leadership has transformed the team into a well-disciplined and relentless force, knocking off higher-seeded opponents and capturing national attention.
This success is not entirely surprising for those familiar with McCollum’s background. Before taking the job at Drake, he built an impressive résumé at Northwest Missouri State, where he won four Division II national championships. His teams were known for their efficient offense, suffocating defense, and disciplined execution—qualities that have seamlessly translated to the Division I level.
Indiana’s Struggles and What Could Have Been
On the other hand, the Indiana Hoosiers have been searching for consistency in recent years. Despite boasting a rich basketball history, they have struggled to return to the top tier of the Big Ten and national rankings. Their recent coaching hires have failed to bring sustained success, and the pressure is mounting for the program to get back on track.
The Hoosiers’ recent hire, while promising, lacks the immediate excitement that McCollum’s name now carries. As Drake continues its Cinderella run, Indiana fans and analysts alike may wonder: Did the Hoosiers miss out on a golden opportunity? Could McCollum have been the visionary leader Indiana needed to rebuild the program?
What Makes McCollum the Ideal Candidate?
McCollum’s coaching style fits the blueprint for success at a high-profile program like Indiana. He emphasizes fundamentals, prioritizes defensive intensity, and instills a team-first culture—all elements the Hoosiers desperately need. Additionally, his ability to win with less talent at Drake suggests he could have thrived with the resources and recruiting power Indiana offers.
Beyond his on-court success, McCollum is known for his ability to connect with players, a key factor in modern college basketball. His player development skills and strategic mind could have been exactly what Indiana needed to revitalize its program.
The Road Ahead
While Indiana may have missed out on McCollum this time, his stock is undoubtedly rising. If he continues to lead Drake on a deep tournament run, it’s only a matter of time before bigger programs come calling. Whether Indiana made the right coaching decision remains to be seen, but McCollum’s rapid ascent is making one thing clear: he is a coach destined for the big stage.
For now, Hoosiers fans can only watch and wonder what could have been as Ben McCollum and Drake continue their unforgettable March Madness journey.
