Full Breakdown
Iowa Hawkeyes Begin Season with Dominant Win Over Robert Morris
11/5/2025, 1:14:06 PM
Season Opener Highlights
The Iowa Hawkeyes opened their 2025-26 basketball season with a commanding 101-69 victory over the Robert Morris Colonials at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on November 4, 2025. This game marked the debut of head coach Ben McCollum, who previously led the Drake Bulldogs. The Hawkeyes showcased a potent offensive performance, shooting 62% from the field and forcing 23 turnovers from their opponents.
Key Performers
Bennett Stirtz led Iowa with 19 points, contributing significantly to the team's early momentum. He was supported by Tavion Banks, who scored 17 points, and Alvaro Folgueiras, who added 11. The Hawkeyes had six players in double figures, including Isaia Howard, Cam Manyawu, and Brendan Hausen, each scoring 10 points. The team’s strong performance was characterized by effective ball movement, resulting in 21 assists and 11 steals.
Game Flow and Strategy
Iowa started the game with a 14-0 run, quickly establishing control. The first half ended with the Hawkeyes leading 49-26, thanks to a combination of aggressive defense and efficient scoring. Stirtz was particularly effective, scoring 15 points in the first half alone. The Colonials struggled offensively, shooting only 38% from the field and 9% from three-point range in the first half.
In the second half, Iowa maintained its lead, highlighted by several highlight-reel dunks, including an alley-oop from Stirtz and a thunderous dunk from Banks. Despite Robert Morris improving its shooting to 63% in the second half, Iowa's lead was insurmountable.
Official Statements & Responses
After the game, Coach McCollum expressed satisfaction with the team's energy and performance, stating, “Really happy with our start, our energy out of the gate.” He acknowledged that while the victory was encouraging, there is still significant work to be done as the season progresses.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the dominant win, some analysts noted areas for improvement, particularly in rebounding, where Robert Morris held a slight edge. The Hawkeyes will need to address these issues as they prepare for their next matchup against Western Illinois.
What's Next
Iowa will host Western Illinois on November 7, 2025, as they look to build on their successful start. The Leathernecks are coming off a loss and will be seeking to rebound against the Hawkeyes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You just got to show them you appreciate them,” — Ben McCollum, Head Coach, Iowa Hawkeyes
- “It’s been a while,” — Bennett Stirtz, on his dunk during the game.
- “Obviously, we’re still going to be a work in progress.” — Ben McCollum, reflecting on the team's performance.
This season opener not only set a positive tone for Iowa's campaign but also highlighted the potential of McCollum's coaching style, which emphasizes both defense and offensive efficiency.
