An Unconventional Path
Bennett Stirtz never imagined his path to the NBA would involve a lawn‑mowing business and a series of transfers, but the Iowa guard embraces the unexpected. After two years at Northwest Missouri State, he followed head coach Ben McCollum to Drake and then to the University of Iowa, a move motivated by loyalty rather than opportunity.
The journey has taken him from the Midwest’s Division II roots to the bright lights of March Madness, where Iowa fell just one win short of the Final Four. Along the way, Stirtz has built a modest brand on LinkedIn, listing himself as the owner of Stirtz Bros Lawn Care, a side venture he still jokes about as a backup plan.
Shooting for the Top
At the 2026 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, Stirtz distinguished himself in shooting drills, finishing first in spot‑up shooting and second in side‑mid‑side. His accuracy from the perimeter has become a central part of his pitch to NBA teams, who see a player capable of stretching defenses and creating his own shot.
When asked about NBA comparisons, Stirtz cites Jamal Murray and Ty Jerome, noting their ability to operate both with and without the ball. He also mentions Nikola Jokić, admiring the Serbian star’s versatility, though he acknowledges his own game is distinct.
A New Chapter in Iowa City
Preparing for the Combine, Stirtz has chosen to train in Iowa City alongside McCollum and fellow prospect Logan Ogden. The regimen focuses on off‑ball movement, defensive versatility and the mental toughness required to transition from college to the professional ranks.
Beyond personal goals, Stirtz has become an ambassador for Iowa basketball, urging prospective recruits to consider the program after its Elite Eight run. His story, he says, illustrates that dedication and a willingness to embrace the unconventional can open doors once thought closed.