Bennett Stirtz ready to help Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in new off-ball role

The Oklahoma City Thunder recently drafted Bennett Stirtz with the 16th overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft. The team envisions him as a high-end role player who could contribute during their current contention window. In two preseason games, Stirtz has met expectations, scoring 35 points on 12-of-20 shooting. While Aday Mara's excitement has brought attention to him, he is the second-most talked-about prospect among the Thunder's first-round picks.

With the departure of Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe, and Aaron Wiggins due to cost-cutting measures, Stirtz will need to adapt to a more complementary role. Through his collegiate career at Northwest Missouri State, Drake, and Iowa, Stirtz has been the main engine of each team's offense. Now, as an NBA player, he will need to step aside and play off-ball, particularly in supporting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder's two-time MVP.

Stirtz expressed his eagerness to help the team win, stating that it becomes easier when the best player in the world is on the court. The Thunder have an opening for Stirtz to secure valuable minutes and possessions in the 2026-27 regular season.