Iowa’s Ben McCollum Says ‘No Thanks’ to North Carolina

Taking the Iowa men's basketball team all the way to the Elite Eight got head coach Ben McCollum and the basketball program a lot of attention. It grew the Iowa basketball brand, and it also put McCollum at the top of many basketball program's head coaching wish lists. That included the University of North Carolina.

North Carolina Offered Job Interview to Ben McCollum

Where there is smoke, there is fire. Rumors were rampant that UNC wanted to talk with the head Hawkeye. The Des Moines Register now confirms that McCollum was offered a chance to interview with the Tarheels. But despite the history and championships, McCollum opted to stay in Iowa City. The Register reports that McCollum had brief contact with the school last week. UNC officials had hoped to meet with him on Sunday, but McCollum turned down the interview according to the Register.

McCollum Says 'No', Tar Heels Pivot

The Register reports that North Carolina quickly moved on to another coach after Ben McCollum delcined to interview. UNC hired former Denver Nuggets head coach Mike Malone as the schools new head coach.

Hawkeye fans are breathing easier knowing that Ben McCollum is staying put in Iowa City. But as he continues to build the Iowa program to levels rarely seen, the attention will continue. I imagine a contract extension and a possible raise are on the way soon for coach McCollum.