“I think if you want to be a great point guard, you should come to Iowa,” said Bennett Stirtz, reflecting on his journey with the Iowa Hawkeyes as they made a historic run in the 2026 NCAA tournament. Stirtz’s words resonate deeply, especially considering the significance of Iowa’s performance this season, culminating in their first Elite Eight appearance since 1987.
Stirtz, who played all 40 minutes in each of Iowa’s four tournament games, emerged as a standout player, scoring 24 points in the Elite Eight loss to the Illinois Fighting Illini. His relentless effort on the court not only showcased his talent but also underscored his determination to lead his team to victory. Despite the heartbreaking 71-59 defeat, Stirtz’s contributions were undeniable, earning him a spot on the South Region All-Region Team.
The 2026 NCAA tournament marked a significant turnaround for Iowa basketball, which had not reached the Sweet 16 since 1999. Under the leadership of head coach Ben McCollum, who was hired in March 2025, the team finished the tournament with a record of 24-13. This season, Stirtz recorded an impressive 734 points, ranking him fourth in a single season in Iowa program history, alongside 163 assists, further solidifying his legacy.
Reflecting on the emotional toll of the tournament, Stirtz expressed, “It’s unfortunate. There’s a lot of emotions going through my head and going through all of our heads right now. It’s a tough pill to swallow. You just don’t want to be done.” His sentiments echo the feelings of his teammates, who shared in the disappointment of falling short of their ultimate goal.
As the game progressed, Stirtz played 39:32 minutes, marking the first time in the tournament he did not play a full 40 minutes. His leadership on the court was evident, and he believed in his team’s potential, stating, “I think we could’ve won the game.” Such confidence and resilience are what make Stirtz a remarkable player and leader.
Stirtz’s journey with the Hawkeyes has been nothing short of extraordinary, finishing his college career with a record of 115-25. His impact on the program will be felt for years to come, as he has set a high standard for future players. “This wouldn’t have been possible without everyone in my corner and all these teammates that I’ve had throughout the years,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in achieving success.
As Iowa reflects on this historic season, the future looks bright. With a strong foundation built by Stirtz and his teammates, the Hawkeyes aim to build on this momentum and strive for even greater achievements in the seasons to come. The journey may have ended in disappointment, but the legacy of Bennett Stirtz and the 2026 Iowa Hawkeyes will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players.
