Iowa Lands Dynamic Transfer Ty'Reek Coleman: Next Star Hawkeye Guard?

The Illinois State transfer comes to Iowa with three years of eligibility and should be an immediate contributor.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:08am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the fluid movements and energy of a basketball player, with sharp geometric planes in the team colors of the Iowa Hawkeyes and Illinois State Redbirds.The dynamic playmaking and scoring ability of transfer Ty'Reek Coleman should help Iowa maintain its upward trajectory after a surprise Elite Eight run.Aurora Today

The Illinois State transfer Ty'Reek Coleman has committed to the University of Iowa, bringing three years of eligibility and high expectations as a potential star guard for the Hawkeyes. Coleman impressed as a freshman starter for Illinois State, averaging 10 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game while shooting an efficient 41.6% from three-point range.

Why it matters

With the departure of lead guard Bennett Stirtz to the NBA, Iowa had a clear need at the point guard position. The addition of Coleman, a dynamic scorer and playmaker, should help fill that void and allow the Hawkeyes to build on their surprise Elite Eight run last season.

The details

At 6'2", Coleman is a three-level scorer who can knock down shots off the dribble or catch, get to the rim, and create for teammates. He's also a strong defender who should fit well in Iowa's system under head coach Ben McCollum. The Hawkeyes are hoping Coleman can develop into a star over the next three seasons and lead them to continued success in the Big Ten.

  • Coleman started 19 of 35 games as a freshman at Illinois State during the 2025-26 season.
  • Coleman has three years of eligibility remaining and will join the Iowa program for the 2026-27 season.

The players

Ty'Reek Coleman

A 6'2" guard who transferred from Illinois State, where he averaged 10 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game as a freshman starter.

Bennett Stirtz

The lead guard for Iowa's surprise Elite Eight team last season, who has declared for the NBA draft.

Ben McCollum

The head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes, known for his ability to develop guards.

Kael Combs

A current Iowa guard who may be better suited to play off the ball, leaving an opening for Coleman to take over as the team's lead guard.

Chase Walker

A standout forward for Illinois State last season, who was the team's best defender according to advanced metrics.

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What they’re saying

“Reek's a dynamic player who can really impact the game on both ends of the floor. We're excited to have him join the Hawkeye family.”

— Ben McCollum, Head Coach, Iowa Hawkeyes

What’s next

Coleman will join the Iowa program this summer and is expected to immediately compete for the starting point guard role.

The takeaway

The addition of Ty'Reek Coleman gives Iowa a talented, versatile guard who should help the Hawkeyes maintain their momentum after a surprise Elite Eight run. His ability to score, facilitate, and defend at a high level makes him an ideal fit to replace the departed Bennett Stirtz.