Iowa men's basketball head coach Ben McCollum spoke about his relationship with long-time Hawkeyes football head coach Kirk Ferentz during a live appearance on The Pat McAfee Show hosted on campus.
McCollum described the athletic culture at Iowa as collaborative, with programs supporting one another rather than competing for resources or attention.
He shared that Ferentz reached out to him personally during his initial hiring interview process.
McCollum recalled receiving a text message from Ferentz three days before the NCAA Tournament, even though he had told the athletic director he would not speak to anyone during his tournament run.
McCollum Praises Ferentz
"He's as genuine as he seems. He's as real as he seems.
And, obviously, he's a heck of a coach," McCollum said.
"He's one of the best coaches in the country. And, you know, obviously, my favorite football coach as well."
Following his previous success leading Iowa to the Elite 8 in the NCAA Tournament, McCollum also expressed full confidence in the football team's upcoming matchup against Ohio State.
"I expect a Hawkeye win. That's what I expect," McCollum said.
