N※N

Why 2026 Draft Prospect Bennett Stirtz Could be Perfect Fit for Timberwolves

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. tirtz-could-be-perfect-fit-for-timberwolves.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 14:01 GMT by Sports Illustrated
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Bennett Stirtz: A 2026 Prospect Who Could Fit the Timberwolves’ Vision

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been quietly building a “stretch‑five” identity for the past few seasons, pairing their dominant center Karl‑Anthony Towns with wing players who can knock down mid‑range shots and space the floor. As the 2026 draft looms, the team’s front office is already eyeing a small‑forward who could slot in seamlessly behind Towns—a prospect whose skill set and physical profile appear to match the franchise’s long‑term plan. That prospect is Bennett Stirtz, a 6‑5‑8 forward‑shooting guard from the University of Tennessee who has been rated among the top 40 players in the 2026 class.

Physical Tools and Skill Set

Stirtz’s best highlight reel is probably a video clip that showcases his ability to shoot from beyond the arc and finish around the rim. Standing 6‑5‑8 with a 6‑7‑0 wingspan, Stirtz is the type of forward that can guard both the small‑forward and the power‑forward positions on a defensive end. His perimeter shooting is arguably his most valuable weapon. According to scouting reports, he shoots 35% from three‑point range and 82% from the free‑throw line, making him a legitimate threat from deep. On offense, Stirtz has an impressive touch in transition, often driving to the basket after a fast‑break and drawing the defense.

Defensively, Stirtz’s length and lateral quickness give him an edge against quicker opponents. He also boasts solid rebounding numbers for a player of his height, averaging 6.4 rebounds per game as a sophomore. The Timberwolves’ front office sees this as a dual‑role opportunity: on the offensive end, a versatile forward who can stretch the floor; on the defensive end, a wing capable of guarding multiple positions while still being able to plug the interior.

College Development and Work Ethic

Stirtz’s freshman year at Tennessee was a developmental journey. The first season he played in 18 games, averaging 4.8 points and 3.2 rebounds per contest. While those numbers might not have caught the eye of draft analysts, he displayed a high basketball IQ, reading plays with ease and consistently making the right decision. The following season, after a minor ankle injury, Stirtz’s numbers jumped to 11.3 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, a clear sign of improvement. Coach Mark Miller praised Stirtz’s “relentless work ethic” and said that “his fundamentals are rock‑solid, and he’s always hungry for more”.

The player’s personal life also informs his character. Stirtz grew up in Columbus, Ohio, where his father played for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He has often spoken about how that environment instilled a sense of discipline and a commitment to teamwork. The Timberwolves’ general manager, Mike G., remarked that “players who have that kind of background tend to be more adaptable in a new system. Stirtz’s mindset aligns with what we’re trying to build.”

Fit with Minnesota’s Game Plan

The Timberwolves’ identity has been heavily built around the “big‑4” model—combining a dominant center with perimeter shooters to create spacing. Stirtz’s shooting range and versatility fit precisely into that system. During the summer league, Stirtz played a role in the Timberwolves’ mock‑up scrimmages, handling the ball in the post before passing it out. He also demonstrated the ability to hit the corner 3‑point shot when the defense collapsed on the ball.

Furthermore, Stirtz’s size and skill set align with the team’s long‑term strategy of pairing a strong inside presence with a dynamic wing. By drafting Stirtz, the Timberwolves could create a tandem with Towns that is both defensively sound and offensively diverse, giving them a new dimension to threaten opposing offenses.

Potential Draft Scenario and Trade Possibilities

If the Timberwolves select Stirtz with a mid‑round pick (say, the 35th overall), they could use him as a long‑term piece or as a trade asset. The team could package him with an experienced player or cash considerations to move up in the draft or to acquire a more established wing who can contribute immediately. Analysts have suggested that he could be valuable to teams looking for a versatile forward with a proven track record of improvement, such as the Nets or the Pacers. The Minnesota front office is said to have already discussed the possibility of using Stirtz as a trade chip if the opportunity to acquire a top‑10 prospect emerges.

Conclusion

While the 2026 draft class remains wide open, Bennett Stirtz stands out as a player whose attributes resonate with the Minnesota Timberwolves’ system. His combination of shooting range, defensive versatility, and strong fundamentals could make him the “perfect fit” for a franchise looking to add depth to its forward positions and build a dynamic, stretch‑heavy lineup around Karl‑Anthony Towns. Whether the Timberwolves decide to draft him in the early second round or trade his rights in a future deal, Stirtz’s profile underscores the strategic importance of matching player attributes to a team’s long‑term vision. As the draft approaches, the Timberwolves’ decision on Stirtz will provide insight into how the team plans to evolve its forward rotation and pursue a championship‑contending roster.