Iowa basketball fans have reason to celebrate: point guard Bennett Stirtz has officially earned an invitation to the 2026 NBA Draft Combine. The event, set for May 10-17 at Chicago's Wintrust Arena and Marriott Marquis, marks a major milestone for the senior who capped off a standout college career with the Hawkeyes.

Stirtz's journey to this moment is a story of perseverance and growth. After stops at Northwest Missouri State and Drake, he arrived in Iowa City for a sensational lone season. His numbers tell the tale of a player who consistently delivered: averaging 19.8 points and 4.4 assists per game while shooting 47.7% from the field and 35.8% from beyond the arc. Over his entire Division I career, Stirtz posted averages of 19.5 points, 5.0 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, with impressive shooting splits of 48.7% from the floor, 37.2% from three-point range, and 82% from the free-throw line.

Stirtz isn't alone in representing the Big Ten at the combine. He's joined by 14 other conference standouts, including three players each from Michigan and Illinois, two from Wisconsin, and one each from UCLA, Purdue, Michigan State, Washington, Northwestern, and Ohio State. In total, 73 draft-eligible prospects from across the nation will showcase their skills in Chicago, with the 2026 NBA Draft following on June 23-24 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

For fans tracking the next generation of basketball talent, Stirtz's invitation is a testament to hard work and a season that put Iowa basketball back in the spotlight. Whether you're gearing up for draft day or just love the game, this is a name to watch.