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Thunder selects Bennett Stirtz at No. 16 in NBA Draft

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 2, 2026, 1:37 AM

Last updated Jul 2, 2026

Thunder selects Bennett Stirtz at No. 16 in NBA Draft

Summary

The Oklahoma City Thunder selected Bennett Stirtz with the 16th overall pick in the NBA Draft on June 28. Stirtz, a 23-year-old playmaker, moved from Division II to the NCAA Elite Eight, indicating he may be ready for the NBA. Thunder General Manager Sam Presti indicated that Stirtz's strong basketball IQ and versatile playstyle make him a promising addition to the team's guard rotation, which already includes notable players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort. Presti emphasized the need for Stirtz to adapt to the NBA but believes he will have a significant role during his rookie season.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Bennett Stirtz was drafted 16th overall by the Thunder.
•Sam Presti praised Stirtz's basketball IQ and versatility.
•Stirtz has a track record from Division II to the Elite Eight.
•The Thunder have a crowded guard lineup but see potential in Stirtz.
•Presti believes Stirtz is ready to make an immediate impact.

Latest Updates

1:37 AMYahoo Sports — Is Thunder’s Bennett Stirtz An NBA Ready Rookie?

What they're saying

"
Sam Presti prioritized elite basketball IQ over flash, banking on a 23-year-old playmaker whose rapid ascent from Division II to the first round signals immediate rotational impact.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Oklahoma City Thunder NBA Basketball