DES MOINES, Iowa — Drake University has hired Ben McCollum to be its next head men's basketball coach.
A Storm Lake native, McCollum has spent the past 15 seasons at Northwest Missouri State, totaling a 394-91 record and four NCAA Division II national championships.
"We are thrilled to announced the hiring of Ben McCollum as the 30th head coach in Drake men’s basketball history," the program announced on social media Monday.
McCollum replaces Darian DeVries, who tallied 150 wins over six seasons with the Bulldogs. DeVries was formally introduced as the head men's basketball coach at West Virginia last week.
"I am honored to be a part of the Drake basketball family," McCollum said in a statement. "We have seen the transition Drake basketball has made over the past few seasons to become one of the most successful mid-majors in that span. My family and I are very excited to continue that tradition with the support of the great Des Moines community. I would also like to thank President Martin and Athletics Director Brian Hardin for allowing me the opportunity to continue the success at Drake."
Drake finished this past season 28-7 following a 66-61 loss to Washington State in the First Round of the NCAA Tournament.
"We are thrilled to add Ben and his family to Drake and the Des Moines community," Drake Athletics Director Brian Hardin said in a statement. "Ben understands what it takes to achieve sustained excellence. While his incomparable record of success in competition stands out, in talking with people who know Ben, the positive impact he has on the lives of his student-athletes has left a more indelible mark. We welcome Ben to Des Moines' Hometown Team and cannot wait for what we will accomplish together."
McCollum will be introduced at a press conference at 10 a.m. next Tuesday.