When you think of celebrated college basketball coach Ben McCollum and his success, you wonder who has been behind him all these years; the only logical answer would be his supportive wife, Michelle.
Ben and Michelle have built a strong family together while facing the ups and downs of life and a demanding coaching career.
Michelle McCollum was born to Nick Ackerman and Anita (Wessman) Ackerman in Albert City, Iowa.
Growing up alongside her brother, Michael John Ackerman, and her sister, Andrea Louise, Michelle enjoyed a close-knit family life.
Her father, Nick, was a talented musician who was passionate about playing the trumpet.
He was also a proud supporter of Northwest Missouri State Bearcat basketball, often watching games online.
Her mother, Anita, was a beloved figure in the family until her passing on August 1, 2013, in Storm Lake, Iowa.
The loss of her father followed years later, on September 3, 2021, marking another heartfelt chapter for Michelle.
Though details about her early life and education remain private, it’s clear that her upbringing in Iowa shaped her into the grounded, family-oriented woman she is today.
Michelle’s professional life shows her dedication to educating young brains.
She spent several years as a first-grade teacher at Liberty Public Schools and worked from August 2005 to 2009 as a teacher at USD 253.
Later, she took on educational leadership roles, serving as the assistant director of student services at Maryville R-II School District and the Maryville Childhood Center director from 2018 to 2022.
Her career in education highlights her caring nature and commitment to helping others, qualities that undoubtedly strengthen her role as a wife and mother.
Ben And Michelle’s Love Story Began Nearly Two Decades Ago When They Tied The Knot On July 2, 2005
Since then, Michelle has been a steady presence by Ben’s side as he climbed college basketball coaching ranks.
Michelle has been his rock from his early days as a graduate assistant to his current role as head coach of the Drake Bulldogs (a position he took in 2024).
Ben himself has often spoken highly of her influence, crediting her—alongside his mother—as one of the most significant figures in his life.
This sentiment rang true during his induction into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2024, where he publicly acknowledged the women who shaped his journey.
The McCollum household is busy, with three children keeping Ben and Michelle on their toes.
Their two sons, Peyton and Tate, and their daughter, Grace Ann, are the heart of their family.
Basketball runs deep in their blood, with Peyton and Tate playing as point guards at Maryville High School.
It’s easy to see how Ben’s passion for the sport has rubbed off on his kids, and Michelle has been there every step of the way, cheering them on from the sidelines.
While Grace Ann’s interests are less detailed in the public eye, she’s undoubtedly a cherished part of this tight-knit crew.
Ben McCollum’s rise in basketball hasn’t been a solo effort, but Michelle’s continuous support has played a huge role.
Born in Iowa City and raised in Storm Lake, Iowa, Ben graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1999.
His college basketball journey took him from North Iowa Area Community College, where he was a two-time all-region performer, to Northwest Missouri State in 2001.
There, he played under coach Steve Tappmeyer and helped the Bearcats achieve a stellar 51-15 record, including a 29-3 season in 2001-02 that marked the team’s first Elite Eight appearance.
After his playing days, Ben’s coaching career kicked off as a graduate assistant at Northwest, where the team went 58-8 over two seasons and made another Elite Eight run.
He later spent four years as an assistant coach at Emporia State under David Moe before returning to Northwest as head coach—a role that cemented his reputation as a winner.
In 2024, he took on a new challenge as head coach of the Drake Bulldogs.
Michelle has been his partner through every move and milestone, balancing family life with the demands of his career.
While Ben’s Accomplishments Often Take Center Stage, Michelle Prefers To Keep A Lower Profile
She’s not one for the spotlight, but her influence is undeniable.
Whether supporting her husband’s coaching endeavors or raising their three children, Michelle brings warmth and stability to the McCollum family.
Her losses—her mother in 2013 and her father in 2021—have undoubtedly shaped her perspective, making her cherish the moments she has with her loved ones even more.
Ben and Michelle McCollum’s story involves partnership, resilience, and family.
From their wedding day in 2005 to raising Peyton, Tate, and Grace Ann, they’ve built a life rooted in mutual support and shared values.
As Ben continues to make waves in college basketball, Michelle remains the steady force behind the scenes as wife, mother, and former educator whose quiet strength keeps their family thriving.
Together, they’re not just a coaching duo but a team in every sense of the word, proving that love and dedication can carry you far—both on and off the court.
