What observers say
“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,” said Bennett Stirtz after Iowa’s heartbreaking loss to Illinois in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Tournament.
Stirtz’s words encapsulate the disappointment felt by the Iowa Hawkeyes, who advanced to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1987 but fell short against the Illinois Fighting Illini, losing 71-59. The 2026 tournament marked a significant milestone for Iowa, which had not reached the Sweet 16 since 1999.
Throughout the tournament, Stirtz showcased his skills, playing all 40 minutes in each of Iowa’s four games. His performance was instrumental in leading the team to a record of 24-13 for the season. In the Elite Eight matchup, he scored 24 points, although it was not enough to secure a victory.
Stirtz’s contributions did not go unnoticed, as he was named to the South Region All-Region Team for his outstanding play during the tournament. He finished his college career with a total of 734 points, ranking fourth for the most points in a single season in Iowa program history. Additionally, he recorded 163 assists, further solidifying his legacy as a key player for the Hawkeyes.
Reflecting on his time at Iowa, Stirtz stated, “This wouldn’t have been possible without everyone in my corner and all these teammates that I’ve had throughout the years.” His gratitude highlights the teamwork and support that propelled Iowa to this historic run.
Head coach Ben McCollum, who was hired in March 2025, has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the program. Under his leadership, Iowa has shown significant improvement, culminating in this remarkable tournament run. Stirtz’s performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.
As the dust settles on this tournament run, the Hawkeyes look to build on their success for the future. With Stirtz’s departure, the team will need to find new leadership and talent to continue their upward trajectory. The next season promises to be an exciting challenge as Iowa aims to return to the NCAA Tournament and build on their recent achievements.
