yardbarker
Bennett Stirtz, a guard who ranked among college basketball's top performers last season, appears to be a significant find for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Following a standout collegiate career, Stirtz has already made a strong impression in the preseason, offering Oklahoma City yet another promising young talent as the franchise aims to build on its recent achievements.
Originally selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 16th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Stirtz was promptly dealt to the Thunder in return for a pair of second-round picks. Observers were eager to see how he would integrate into Oklahoma City's rotation, and if his preseason showings are any sign, he will fit seamlessly.
Across three preseason contests, Stirtz has posted averages of 20.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. Notably, 22 of his 36 field-goal attempts have come from beyond the arc, where he has converted 13, yielding a 59% success rate from deep.
His shot profile in the preseason mirrors his expected role: a heavy emphasis on three-point shooting. Last season, Oklahoma City ranked 13th in the league with 37.9 three-point attempts per game and ninth in percentage at 36.5%. While Stirtz is unlikely to sustain nearly 60% shooting over a full season, he shot 37.2% from three during his two collegiate seasons—a mark superior to the Thunder's team percentage from last year.
Key Analysis
Should Stirtz maintain production anywhere close to what he displayed in college and the preseason, Oklahoma City will have added another young standout to an already deep and talented core. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute across multiple categories makes him a valuable asset for a team looking to contend.
Originally reported by yardbarker.