Bennett Stirtz never imagined that a stint in Division II would lead him to the brink of the NBA, yet the Iowa guard is now preparing for the 2026 NBA Draft Combine after an unconventional college career.
A Coach‑Driven Path
Stirtz transferred twice to remain under the tutelage of head coach Ben McCollum, first moving from Northwest Missouri State to Drake and then to the University of Iowa. The continuity with McCollum, now at Iowa, gave Stirtz a stable platform to rebuild the program and earn All‑Big Ten honors.
The Hawkeyes, bolstered by Stirtz’s contributions, mounted a thrilling March Madness run that fell just one win short of the Final Four. The team upset top‑seeded Florida and knocked off rival Nebraska, putting Iowa back on the national radar.
Training in Iowa City
For the Combine, Stirtz chose to train in Iowa City alongside McCollum and Logan Ogden, believing the staff’s deep understanding of his physique and development needs would maximize his readiness. He cited Jamal Murray and Ty Jerome as players whose skill sets mirror his own, particularly as a shooter and playmaker.
During the shooting drills, Stirtz unofficially topped spot‑up shooting and ranked second in side‑mid‑side work, underscoring his reputation as a lethal perimeter threat. He also emphasized that he feels more comfortable off the ball, aiming to display a versatile offensive skill set in Chicago.
More Than a Player
Beyond his on‑court ambitions, Stirtz has become an ambassador for the revitalization of Iowa men’s basketball, publicly urging prospects to consider the Hawkeyes. Off the court, he balances his athletic pursuits with a side business listed on LinkedIn as Stirtz Bros Lawn Care, a nod to his humble roots of mowing lawns to fund his dreams.
As the 2026 Draft approaches, Stirtz remains focused on proving that his journey — from Division II to the cusp of the NBA — is not a fluke but the result of relentless work, strategic coaching, and an unwavering belief in his own abilities.