Bennett Stirtz stepped onto the court at the 2026 NBA Combine and immediately caught the attention of scouts with a blend of poise and precision. The Iowa point guard, once a modest Division II prospect, now showcases a skill set that feels tailor‑made for the next level.
A Standout Start
During his senior season he averaged 19.8 points, 4.4 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals, while shooting efficiently from beyond the arc and off the dribble. His numbers placed him among the most consistent point guards in college basketball and helped him lead the Big Ten in scoring, assists and steals.
In the shooting drills he displayed a quick release, a high three‑point percentage and the ability to create his own shot off the dribble, ranking among the nation’s most reliable perimeter threats. Analysts noted that his spot‑up and off‑dribble shooting were among the best in the combine.
Program Records and National Recognition
Stirtz set multiple Iowa records, including the most field‑goal and three‑point attempts in a single season. He also became the only player in the nation to compile 730 points, 160 assists, 95 rebounds, 90 three‑pointers and 50 steals in the 2025‑26 campaign, a statistical line that underscored his all‑around impact.
A Unique Coaching Connection
Coach Ben McCollum, who has followed Stirtz through three stops in three years, praised the player’s humility and work ethic, noting how the point guard’s journey from a DII prospect to a potential first‑round pick reflects a rare partnership. McCollum highlighted Stirtz’s willingness to learn and his relentless pursuit of improvement.
The coach’s endorsement adds a narrative dimension to Stirtz’s draft profile, suggesting that the player’s development has been guided by a mentor who understands both his potential and his challenges.
Looking Ahead
With the combine behind him, Stirtz will prepare for the draft process, aiming to translate his college success into NBA impact. The Iowa Hawkeyes, represented by the university’s official website iowa.edu, will continue to benefit from his trailblazing path, marking the first first‑round pick in the McCollum era and signaling a new chapter for the program.