Bennett Stirtz expected to be key rookie for Thunder in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 1:14 AM
Last updated Sep 20, 2026
Bennett Stirtz, selected 16th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder, is anticipated to make a significant impact as a rookie in the 2026 NBA season. The Thunder recently traded Isaiah Joe, their most effective three-point shooter, increasing the demand for Stirtz's shooting ability. Stirtz is a career 37.2% three-point shooter who averaged nearly seven attempts per game at Iowa. With offensive players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams on the roster, Stirtz is expected to benefit from improved spacing, enhancing his potential contributions early in the season.
- •Bennett Stirtz was drafted 16th overall by the Thunder.
- •Isaiah Joe, a key shooter, was recently traded to the Pistons.
- •Stirtz averaged 37.2% from three-point range in college.
- •He is expected to see early minutes due to offensive depth.
- •The Thunder aim to improve their three-point shooting this season.
- 1:14 AMYahoo Sports — Bennett Stirtz Could Be the Thunder's Most Impactful Rookie
"Though the Thunder have many newcomers with a desire to contribute in year one, Bennett Stirtz might be the only one to do it.
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