Coleman Hawkins may not be the flashiest name in the NBA draft class, but he’s certainly among the most intriguing
His ability to impact the game in multiple ways, combined with his leadership and loyalty, make him a prospect worth watching.
As he continues to train and prepare for the next level, one thing is clear: the same qualities that led him to support Podziemski will serve him well on his own journey.
NBA teams in search of a hard-working, unselfish, and mentally strong player would do well to give Hawkins a closer look. His time is coming — and he’ll be ready when it does.
The college basketball world is buzzing with transfers this offseason, but Brendan Hausen’s move to Iowa stands out because of what it represents.
It’s not just a roster shift—it’s a testament to trust, fit, and belief in a shared vision.
Coleman Hawkins’ tweet, “Yessir B,” encapsulated the moment. It wasn’t just approval—it was acknowledgment. It told the world that Iowa was getting more than just a player. They were getting a winner.
As the 2024-25 season unfolds, keep an eye on Hausen. He may not always steal the spotlight, but in the moments that matter, he’ll be right where Iowa needs him to be—ready, reliable, and respected.
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Coleman Hawkins’ Brother: Brendan Hausen Joins Iowa
A Notable Transfer Portal Addition
The college basketball offseason always brings surprises, and one of the more intriguing developments this cycle has been Brendan Hausen’s decision to join the Iowa Hawkeyes.1
A former standout for the Villanova Wildcats, Hausen entered the transfer portal and quickly found a new home in the Big Ten.
Iowa moved swiftly to secure the sharpshooting guard, and the buzz around the program suggests that his arrival could significantly influence their upcoming season.
Hausen’s transfer has already stirred social media chatter, particularly from his former teammates. One notable voice was Kansas State’s Coleman Hawkins, who shared a two-word message that captured the sentiment of many: “Yessir B.”
A simple yet powerful show of support, it highlighted not only their personal bond but also the basketball community’s recognition of Hausen’s abilities.
Houston is so tough man… Gotta respect it 💯
— Coleman Hawkins (@colehawk23) April 6, 2025
A Fresh Start in the Big Ten
After spending the early part of his college career in the Big East, Hausen’s shift to the Big Ten gives him a chance to showcase his talents in a new setting.
At 6-foot-4, he brings a well-rounded offensive game, underlined by his excellent three-point shooting and calm demeanor under pressure.
The Iowa Hawkeyes, under newly appointed head coach Ben McCollum, are in the midst of a cultural and tactical rebuild.
McCollum, who built a reputation at the Division II level with Northwest Missouri State, is known for emphasizing team-oriented basketball, fluid ball movement, and defensive discipline. Hausen’s skill set fits that mold perfectly.
Why Iowa Wanted Hausen
There’s no mystery behind Iowa’s interest in Hausen. The Hawkeyes lost key contributors this offseason, and their backcourt needed a veteran presence with the ability to score from deep and stretch the floor.
Hausen, a career 38% three-point shooter, fits that description to a T.
His ability to operate off the ball, navigate screens, and make quick decisions in catch-and-shoot situations makes him an ideal weapon in McCollum’s system.
Additionally, his college experience means he’ll provide leadership in the locker room and help guide younger players adjusting to the rigors of Big Ten basketball.
Coleman Hawkins’ Reaction: Brotherhood Beyond the Game
When Coleman Hawkins tweeted “Yessir B,” it was more than just a casual social media post—it was a public endorsement.2
Hawkins, now with Kansas State, spent time with Hausen during their high school and AAU days, and their friendship has endured.
In a sport where competitiveness often overshadows camaraderie, Hawkins’ tweet serves as a reminder that players often share bonds that transcend team colors.
His support of Hausen shows how respected the guard is among his peers and hints at the potential impact he could have on Iowa’s culture, both on and off the court.
Floor Spacing: Iowa’s Secret Weapon?
In today’s game, floor spacing is more than just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. For Iowa, a team that has historically relied on inside-out play, adding consistent perimeter threats can completely reshape their offense.
Hausen brings instant gravity to the perimeter. His presence alone can open up driving lanes for guards, create one-on-one post opportunities for big men, and force opposing defenses to rotate quicker.
Even if he’s not scoring 20 points per night, his ability to space the floor changes how defenses approach Iowa.
Leadership and Experience
One of the most underrated aspects of adding a veteran like Hausen is his experience. With multiple seasons of college basketball under his belt, he understands what it takes to compete at a high level.
He’s played in big games, faced elite defenses, and learned how to stay composed when the stakes are high.
As McCollum implements his new system, having players like Hausen—who can serve as an extension of the coach on the floor—will be vital.
Younger teammates will look to him not just for scoring, but for guidance in navigating the demands of Big Ten competition.
Coleman Hawkins: Evaluating his Game
Brendan Hausen is not a flashy player, but his efficiency is what makes him stand out.3
He moves smartly without the ball, keeps defenders honest with his range, and rarely takes bad shots. He’s also improved his handle and decision-making over the years, allowing him to occasionally create off the dribble.
Defensively, Hausen won’t wow you with athleticism, but he’s fundamentally sound. He understands team concepts, rotates well, and doesn’t gamble unnecessarily.
In the Big Ten, where games are often physical and grinding, his ability to play within himself will be an asset.
The McCollum Effect: A New Vision for Iowa
- Ben McCollum’s hiring by Iowa was seen as bold but potentially brilliant. Known for his success at the Division II level, McCollum’s systems are predicated on high basketball IQ and unselfishness.
- Players like Hausen, who aren’t reliant on isolation plays and can thrive in structured environments, are crucial to making that transition a success.
- McCollum will likely use Hausen as a floor spacer and secondary playmaker, similar to how he used multi-dimensional guards at Northwest Missouri State.
- With Iowa transitioning to a more motion-heavy offense, Hausen’s movement shooting and court awareness become even more valuable.
- Though he’s often labeled as a sharpshooter, Hausen’s game has evolved beyond that simple title. He has a solid feel for the game, is willing to make the extra pass, and is unafraid of taking big shots.
- Those intangibles are often what separates good players from great contributors.
- In moments where Iowa needs poise, expect Hausen to deliver.
- Whether it’s hitting a clutch three, calming the team during a rough stretch, or providing vocal leadership in practice, he brings qualities that go far beyond the box score.
What This Means for Iowa’s Season
With Hausen now in the fold, Iowa’s outlook for the upcoming season gets a notable boost. He might not be the team’s leading scorer, but his role could be pivotal in helping the Hawkeyes transition smoothly under McCollum.
If things click early, Iowa could be a sleeper team in the Big Ten. With a new coaching philosophy, experienced transfers like Hausen, and a renewed emphasis on team-oriented play, they have the pieces to surprise doubters and compete for a postseason berth.
A Strategic Addition That Reflects Long-Term Goals
Hausen’s transfer is more than a one-year rental—it’s a strategic addition that signals what Iowa wants to become.
Under McCollum, they aim to prioritize intelligent basketball, unselfishness, and shooting efficiency. Hausen embodies all three.
His signing shows that Iowa isn’t just grabbing talent—they’re targeting players who fit their vision. And as the Hawkeyes build their identity, Hausen could very well be the blueprint for future recruits.
Also Read: Coleman Hawkins’ Sisters, Ashley, Taylor, Bailey – Their Own Notes in History
Coleman Hawkins Shows Love for Former Teammate in NBA Playoffs
In a world of ever-changing rosters and fierce competition, true sportsmanship and loyalty often stand out.
Such is the case with Coleman Hawkins, who recently showed his unwavering support for his former Illinois Fighting Illini teammate, Brandin Podziemski.
As Podziemski enjoyed a stellar run with the Golden State Warriors in the NBA playoffs, Hawkins was right there, cheering him on — proving once again that brotherhood in sports often extends well beyond the final buzzer.
Brandin Podziemski’s breakout moment came at a crucial time — the end of the regular NBA season and into the playoffs. His impact for the Warriors was clear, and fans quickly took note of his hustle, confidence, and shooting ability. Amid the buzz, one voice stood out: Coleman Hawkins.
Hawkins took to social media to reshare a post by Polymarket Hoops, spotlighting Podziemski’s impressive stat line over four consecutive games. For Hawkins, this wasn’t just a moment to celebrate a teammate’s success — it was about honoring the bond they shared at Illinois, where battles on the court forged mutual respect and lifelong friendships.
A Brotherhood Forged in Champaign
- Hawkins and Podziemski weren’t just teammates — they were brothers-in-arms. Their time with the Illinois Fighting Illini helped shape their basketball philosophies, sharpen their skills, and prepare them for bigger stages.
- Though their paths eventually diverged, the connection remained.
- Their time together was filled with promise. Hawkins, with his all-around game and leadership, and Podziemski, with his dynamic scoring and toughness, made a formidable pairing.
- The camaraderie built during long practices, road trips, and high-stakes Big Ten matchups forged a deep-rooted bond.
- While Hawkins remains vocal about supporting his teammates, his own exit from Illinois was far from ideal.
- The senior forward transferred to Kansas State after a challenging period with the Illini. What followed was a difficult season for both parties.
- Illinois fans were vocal in their disappointment over losing Hawkins, a veteran presence who brought leadership and versatility to the team.
- Meanwhile, Kansas State struggled through a rough campaign, failing to make the NCAA Tournament — a blow to Hawkins’ visibility and NBA draft outlook.
- It was a reminder that transitions, no matter how promising, don’t always come with instant success.
Coleman Hawkins‘ Performance at Kansas State
Despite Kansas State’s underwhelming season, Hawkins remained one of the team’s bright spots.
The Sacramento native averaged 10.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.8 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game. His shooting percentages — 40.1% from the field and 30.3% from three — reflected both his scoring ability and room for improvement.
More importantly, Hawkins displayed his trademark versatility. Whether it was switching on defense, initiating plays, or spacing the floor, he showed glimpses of the all-around skill set that once made him a vital cog in the Illinois system.
A Skillset Built for the Modern NBA
What makes Coleman Hawkins intriguing as a draft prospect isn’t just his stats — it’s the way he plays the game. At 6’10”, he brings an enviable mix of size, vision, and agility.
NBA scouts have long noted his ability to read the game, stretch defenses with his shooting, and defend multiple positions.
His basketball IQ stands out. Hawkins is known for setting smart, well-timed screens and making the right decisions under pressure. He excels as a connective player — one who doesn’t always fill up the scoreboard but makes his teammates better.
These traits are particularly valuable in today’s NBA, where positional versatility and high-IQ play are cornerstones of elite team systems.
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Off-Court Loyalty Speaks Volumes
In reposting Brandin Podziemski’s highlight reel, Hawkins sent a powerful message about character. In a business where players often move on and forget their roots, he reminded fans and teams alike that loyalty matters.
This wasn’t about likes or retweets — it was a genuine gesture of support from one friend to another. For NBA teams evaluating not just talent but culture fits, Hawkins’ off-court demeanor adds to his appeal.
Teams value players who support one another, foster positive locker room environments, and bring a team-first mentality. Hawkins’ actions reflect all of these qualities.
The Impact of Social Media on Player Branding
It’s worth noting that Hawkins’ retweet wasn’t just a personal nod — it also contributed to his brand as a future pro. In the era of social media, how athletes present themselves online can influence public perception and even draft stock.
By championing a teammate’s success, Hawkins portrayed himself as mature, selfless, and confident in his own journey. These are traits that go beyond the court — and they matter to executives trying to build cohesive teams.
His online presence also keeps him in the spotlight, something crucial as he prepares for June’s NBA draft.
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