Could Butler’s Finley Bizjack Be Iowa Basketball’s Next Star in the Transfer Portal?

The men’s college basketball transfer portal is officially open, and one name has already caught the attention of Iowa fans and head coach Ben McCollum: Finley Bizjack, Butler’s leading scorer. With Bennett Stirtz graduating this spring, the Hawkeyes are searching for someone to step into the offense-driving role that Stirtz dominated last season, and Bizjack might just be the perfect fit.

Standing 6-foot-4 and 190 pounds, the junior guard from Trophy Club, Texas, had a breakout season with the Bulldogs. Over 31 games, Bizjack averaged 17.1 points, 2.5 assists, and 2.2 rebounds per game, shooting 42.6% from the field, 34.9% from three, and 85% from the free-throw line. His consistent scoring and efficiency earned him third-team All-Big East honors, as voted by the league’s coaches.

Although Butler’s overall record was a modest 16-16, and they went 7-13 in Big East play, Bizjack’s individual performance stood out. He carried the Bulldogs on offense night after night, showing a knack for scoring in multiple ways pull-up jumpers, three-pointers, and finishing at the rim. His ability to create his own shot while also finding teammates makes him an attractive option for Iowa, which now faces the challenge of replacing Stirtz’s production and leadership.

Why Iowa Needs a Player Like Bizjack

Losing Stirtz leaves a huge void in Iowa’s backcourt. Stirtz was not just the team’s top scorer he was the floor general, handling the ball in critical moments, setting up plays, and keeping turnovers low. His 92 made three-pointers at 35.8% shooting were a cornerstone of Iowa’s Elite Eight run.

McCollum needs a player who can handle a similar offensive load. Bizjack fits the bill in terms of scoring ability, size, and experience. Like Stirtz, he can run the offense while remaining a primary scoring option, and he still has eligibility remaining to make an immediate impact.

“The Hawkeyes are looking for someone who can step in and help us maintain our momentum from last season,” McCollum said last week in a press conference. “We need a player with skill, poise, and the ability to take over games. Finley Bizjack is certainly someone we’ll be evaluating closely.”

What Bizjack Brings to the Table

Bizjack isn’t just a scorer he’s a versatile guard who can stretch the floor, attack off the dribble, and make smart decisions in transition. His 34.9% three-point shooting is particularly valuable for spacing the floor in Iowa’s offensive system, which relies on driving lanes, kick-outs, and perimeter shooting.

Additionally, his 85% free-throw shooting indicates a high level of composure under pressure. In late-game situations, especially in March, free-throw efficiency can be the difference between advancing or going home. For a program aiming to build on last season’s Elite Eight run, that skill is priceless.

Iowa fans may remember Kael Combs, who is returning this season. Combs is a solid guard, but he isn’t projected to take on the primary offensive responsibilities Stirtz had. Bizjack’s addition would complement Combs and other returning players, providing scoring balance, leadership, and depth.

Competition in the Transfer Portal

While Iowa would love to land Bizjack, they won’t be alone in pursuit. His All-Big East honors and proven scoring make him a highly sought-after prospect. Programs across the country will be monitoring his next move, knowing that he could be a game-changing addition.

What makes Iowa attractive is their recent success in March Madness, which culminated in an Elite Eight appearance. McCollum’s system, which has already proven capable of turning transfers into stars, could be particularly appealing to Bizjack. Players know that joining Iowa isn’t just about playing time it’s about competing on the national stage and building a program with momentum.

Bizjack and the NBA Draft

There is one significant wrinkle in Iowa’s pursuit: Bizjack is reportedly testing the NBA draft process. This means he may delay any decision regarding the transfer portal until he has evaluated his professional prospects.

NBA evaluations could influence his next step. If draft feedback suggests he could go pro immediately, he might bypass college entirely. Conversely, if he decides to return to school, Iowa could emerge as a top contender to secure his commitment. McCollum and his staff will need to monitor Bizjack’s status closely over the coming weeks.

Iowa’s Offseason Strategy

Replacing Stirtz isn’t the only task for Iowa in the transfer portal. The Hawkeyes also need to add size and shooting depth, as outlined in previous analyses. But the potential acquisition of Bizjack addresses the most urgent concern: a primary offensive creator.

Pairing Bizjack with returning players like Cooper Koch and Tate Sage, who shot 40.2% and 38.9% from three, respectively, would give Iowa a lethal combination of shooting and scoring versatility. Fans could see a backcourt capable of stretching defenses, creating space for post players, and generating consistent offensive production.

What Fans Should Watch

Over the next few weeks, Iowa fans will be paying attention to several key developments:

• Transfer portal updates: Who enters, who leaves, and how McCollum positions Iowa to acquire top talent.
• Bizjack’s NBA decision: His exploration of professional options could delay or accelerate his commitment.
• Roster balance: How the team plans to integrate returning players with new additions to maintain offensive efficiency.

Every decision will be critical. McCollum has already proven adept at identifying overlooked talent and turning them into stars. The question is whether Iowa can land the right player at the right time to keep the program moving forward.

The Bigger Picture

If Bizjack does choose Iowa, the Hawkeyes could solve their point guard void while also enhancing scoring and shooting efficiency. The fit seems almost ideal: a proven scorer with experience, a player accustomed to competitive Big East play, and someone who can step in immediately.

Iowa’s challenge will be navigating transfer competition and Bizjack’s draft exploration. But with McCollum’s reputation growing and Iowa’s recent Elite Eight success, the program could present a highly compelling case for why Bizjack should continue his college career in Iowa City.

For fans, the next few weeks in the transfer portal could be the most exciting of the offseason. If Iowa lands Bizjack, they’ll not just be replacing Stirtz they’ll be making a statement: the Hawkeyes are here to compete at the highest level, year after year.