Iowa's Tavion Banks Exploring All Options for Future

The senior forward could return to Iowa, enter the NBA Draft, or transfer to another school.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:39pm

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the player's movements on the court.The future of Iowa forward Tavion Banks remains uncertain as he explores his options, including a potential return to the Hawkeyes.Iowa City Today

Iowa forward Tavion Banks is leaving his options open when it comes to his basketball future. The senior has declared for the NBA Draft, entered the NCAA transfer portal, and said he would love to return to Iowa for a fifth year if allowed. Banks was a key contributor for the Hawkeyes this past season, starting 35 of 37 games and averaging 10.2 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.

Why it matters

Banks' decision will have a significant impact on the Iowa men's basketball team's roster and plans for next season. If he returns, he would provide valuable experience and production. If he leaves, Iowa will need to find a replacement in the frontcourt.

The details

Banks, who just wrapped up his fourth year in college, first announced that he was declaring for the NBA Draft. However, he also put his name in the NCAA transfer portal and said he would love to be a Hawkeye for a fifth year if that was an option. The reason for entering the portal is likely due to uncertainty around Iowa's roster and scholarship situation for next season.

  • Banks just completed his fourth year of college eligibility.
  • The NCAA transfer portal window closes on April 21, 2026.

The players

Tavion Banks

A senior forward who was Iowa's second-leading scorer (10.2 ppg) and leading rebounder (4.6 rpg) this past season.

Ben McCollum

The head coach of the Iowa men's basketball team, who recruited Banks to join the Hawkeyes after previously coaching him at Northwest Florida State College.

Alvaro Folgueiras

An Iowa player who has already entered the NCAA transfer portal.

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What they’re saying

“I am exploring all options regarding my future.”

— Tavion Banks, Iowa Forward

What’s next

Banks will need to decide whether to remain in the NBA Draft, transfer to another school, or return to Iowa for a fifth year of eligibility if that becomes an option.

The takeaway

Tavion Banks' decision will have a major impact on Iowa's roster and plans for next season. His versatility and production were key to the Hawkeyes' success this past year, so his return would be a significant boost. However, the uncertainty around his eligibility and Iowa's scholarship situation makes his future unclear at the moment.