Iowa's Bennett Stirtz Projected First Round in NBA Mock Draft
Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz is projected as a first-round selection in the upcoming NBA Draft, bringing national attention to the state's basketball program. A new Sports Illustrated mock draft places Stirtz at No. 16 to the Memphis Grizzlies, marking a major milestone for the Hawkeye standout and highlighting Iowa's ability to develop top-tier professional talent.
Where is Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz projected to be drafted?
In the latest mock draft, Stirtz comes off the board at No. 16, heading to the Memphis Grizzlies. This projection puts him ahead of several other notable prospects and solidifies Iowa's growing reputation as a program that produces elite players. For Iowa fans, seeing a hometown star break into the middle of the first round is a testament to the hard work and development happening within the state's collegiate athletics.
Who do the Atlanta Hawks target with their first-round picks?
While Stirtz is the main draw for Iowa readers, the broader draft landscape offers plenty of intrigue. The Atlanta Hawks hold two first-round picks at No. 8 and No. 23, making them the only playoff team with a top-ten selection. They are looking to solve their backcourt issues and add depth at the center position.
At No. 8, the Hawks are projected to select Houston guard Kingston Flemings. Flemings is a tough, two-way point guard who can defend, get to the rim, and create shots for his teammates. Although his offensive system at Houston limited some of his visible skillset, his ability to secure high-quality shots for others makes him a strong fit for Atlanta's long-term plans.
With their second first-round pick at No. 23, the Hawks are projected to take Kentucky center Jayden Quaintance. Quaintance would likely be a top-ten pick if not for knee concerns. While his offense needs work and he might not play much as a rookie while recovering, his elite defensive upside makes him a worthwhile gamble late in the first round. He would pair nicely with Onyeka Okongwu and complement Kingston Flemings in the long term.
Why is Kentucky center Jayden Quaintance projected to fall to No. 23?
Medicals are the primary reason Quaintance falls down the board. Knee problems are scary for any franchise, especially for a big man. However, getting a player with his defensive upside at No. 23 is a risk worth taking. He is an elite defensive prospect who could immediately bolster the Hawks' frontcourt when healthy.
Who are the other notable picks in the 2026 NBA Draft?
The draft board features a deep class of talent. The top selections include BYU forward AJ Dybantsa going No. 1 to the Washington Wizards, Kansas guard Darryn Peterson at No. 2 to the Utah Jazz, and Duke forward Cameron Boozer at No. 3 to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Other notable first-round projections include North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson to the Chicago Bulls at No. 4, Illinois guard Keaton Wagler to the Los Angeles Clippers at No. 5, and Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets at No. 6. The Hawks also hold the No. 57 pick, where they are projected to select Duke forward Maliq Brown, a pure defensive specialist who can contribute immediately on the perimeter.