Iowa Basketball Lands Explosive Four-Star Power Forward Ethan Harris – Could He Be the Game-Changer for 2026?

In the whirlwind world of college hoops recruiting, first impressions matter—big time. And for new Iowa men’s basketball head coach Ben McCollum, snagging his first commit for the 2026 class wasn’t just a milestone; it’s a statement. Enter Ethan Harris, an imposing 6-foot-9 forward from Camas High School in Washington, who’s not just any recruit. Ranked number one in the state and cracking the top 100 nationally, Harris brings not only size but a versatile game that’s got all eyes on him. Last season, he dazzled with nearly 19 points a game, solid rebounds, and a knack for making plays — the kind of player that could immediately reshape Iowa’s future on the hardwood. With heavyweight programs like Washington and Gonzaga vying, McCollum’s pull speaks volumes about what he’s building in Iowa City. Ethan’s already bought into that vision, ready to hustle hard and carve his role on Coach McCollum’s squad. This signing isn’t just a win; it’s the kickoff to something bigger brewing for the Hawkeyes’ upcoming seasons. LEARN MORE

First-year Iowa head men’s basketball coach Ben McCollum secured his first commit in the 2026 class. And it’s a big one.

Ethan Harris announced his commitment to the Hawkeyes on Saturday evening. The 6-foot-9, 200-pound power forward attends Camas High School in Washington. Harris is ranked as the No. 1 player in the state of Washington, as the No. 16 power forward in the class and as the No. 94 player nationally per the 247Sports composite rankings.

As a junior at Camas last season, Harris averaged 18.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 3 assists per game en route to being named the All-Region Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Harris also played for Select Basketball this past summer, averaging 10.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 38% from 3-point range.

Harris took an official visit to Iowa City in May, where the Hawkeyes immediately extended an offer to the talented Washington native.

Despite hard pushes by both Washington and Gonzaga, Iowa won out to secure its pledge in the 2026 cycle.

“All the schools in my top four were great choices,” Harris told 247Sports’ Eric Bossi. “But I chose Iowa for the culture and what type of basketball player they will make of me.

“Coming in as a freshman, I don’t expect anything. I am gonna work my tail off and I believe in what Coach McCollum is building and will play any role he wants from me.”

With Harris now on board with the Hawkeyes, McCollum will certainly use this commitment as a launching pad for additions to the 2026 class down the road.

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