Iowa Targets Experienced Tulsa Transfer Guard

Ben McCollum looks to add depth and veteran leadership to the backcourt.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:05pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the abstract forms of basketball players in motion, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives capturing the fast-paced nature of the game.A cubist interpretation of the dynamic action and energy of a college basketball game, reflecting the versatility and playmaking abilities of a talented transfer guard.Manhattan Today

The Iowa men's basketball program has reportedly shown interest in Tylen Riley, a talented transfer guard from Tulsa University. Riley, a 6-foot-3 senior, had a breakout season in 2025-26, averaging 15.0 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game. With the departures of Bennett Stirtz and Brendan Hausen, Iowa is seeking to bolster its backcourt depth and experience, and Riley could be an ideal fit.

Why it matters

Adding an experienced, high-scoring guard like Tylen Riley would provide a significant boost to Iowa's roster as they look to replace key contributors in the backcourt. Riley's ability to score from all three levels and facilitate the offense could help the Hawkeyes maintain their competitiveness in the Big Ten conference.

The details

After starting his career at Calvary Baptist University, Tylen Riley made the jump to mid-major Tulsa last season and had a standout year. He started all 38 games for the Golden Hurricanes, showcasing his scoring prowess by averaging 15.0 points per game on 44.8% shooting from the field and 38.9% from three-point range. Riley also contributed 3.9 rebounds and 4.4 assists per contest, demonstrating his well-rounded skill set.

  • Tylen Riley played for Tulsa University during the 2025-26 season.
  • The 15-day transfer portal window for men's college basketball opened on April 12, 2026.

The players

Tylen Riley

A 6-foot-3 senior guard who had a breakout season at Tulsa University in 2025-26, averaging 15.0 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game.

Ben McCollum

The head coach of the Iowa men's basketball team, who is actively recruiting Tylen Riley and other transfer players to bolster his roster.

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What they’re saying

“Tylen Riley checks multiple boxes for the Iowa program. With the program focused on adding more guard depth, an intriguing transfer who had his best statistical season last year for the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes.”

— Sam Kayser, Reporter

What’s next

The Iowa coaching staff will continue to evaluate Tylen Riley and other transfer options as they look to build a competitive roster for the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

Iowa's pursuit of Tylen Riley highlights the program's need for experienced backcourt depth following the departures of key contributors. If Riley can successfully make the jump to a high-major program, he could provide valuable veteran leadership and scoring punch to the Hawkeyes' lineup.