Get ready to witness a game-changer for Iowa men’s basketball—they’ve just added a player with international flair and a competitive fire that’s hard to ignore. Meet Alvaro Folgueiras, a 6-foot-10 forward from Spain who’s bringing more than just height to the court. But here’s where it gets interesting: Folgueiras isn’t just another transfer; he’s a proven star who’s already made waves in college basketball, and his arrival at Iowa is turning heads for all the right reasons. And this is the part most people miss—his journey from Malaga, Spain, to the heart of the Big Ten is anything but ordinary.
Folgueiras joins the Hawkeyes as a Horizon League Player of the Year, a title he earned after a standout sophomore season at Robert Morris University (RMU) in Pittsburgh. Last year, he averaged an impressive 14.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, helping the Colonials secure a historic 26-9 record. As a No. 15 seed in the NCAA Tournament, RMU gave Alabama a run for their money, falling just short in a 90-81 first-round loss. Folgueiras himself chipped in 15 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. With 14 double-doubles and a 41.3% three-point shooting percentage, he’s a versatile threat who can stretch the floor, rebound, and dish out assists—all at just 19 years old.
But what makes Folgueiras truly stand out? It’s his relentless competitiveness, as noted by Iowa coach Ben McCollum. “He’s fiercely competitive, almost to a fault,” McCollum said. “He’s got Spanish flair, and he brings a unique style to his game that I love.” Yet, this very trait could be both his greatest strength and his biggest challenge. How Iowa harnesses that fire will be key to his success in the Big Ten.
Folgueiras’ path to Iowa is just as compelling as his stats. Leaving his hometown of Malaga, he honed his skills at the DME Academy in Florida—the same program that Keegan and Kris Murray attended before their Iowa and NBA careers. His brother, Nacho, plays professionally in Ireland, making basketball a family affair. After a rough freshman season at RMU (10-22), Folgueiras stayed loyal, only to become a highly sought-after transfer after his breakout sophomore year. Kentucky, Providence, and Villanova all came calling, but Iowa’s approach won him over.
“I chose people when I chose Iowa,” Folgueiras explained. What sealed the deal? Coach McCollum’s honesty. “He started all the conversations by saying, ‘All the programs are telling you what you can do for them, and I want to tell you what I can do for you,’” Folgueiras recalled. This player-centric approach resonated deeply, proving that sometimes, it’s the relationships that make the difference.
But here’s the controversial part: Is Iowa the right fit for Folgueiras, or will his competitive edge clash with the team’s dynamics? Some argue that his fiery personality could be a double-edged sword in the high-pressure Big Ten. Others believe his unique skill set and international experience will elevate the Hawkeyes to new heights. What do you think? Is Folgueiras the missing piece Iowa needs, or is there a risk in relying on a player with such a distinct style?
One thing’s for sure: Alvaro Folgueiras is no ordinary addition. With his “Spanish flair” and undeniable talent, he’s poised to make a splash in Iowa City. Whether he becomes a hero or a wildcard remains to be seen—but either way, he’s a player you won’t want to miss. Let us know your thoughts in the comments: Is Folgueiras the future of Iowa basketball, or is there a potential mismatch here? The debate is open!
