Iowa fans have had very few reasons over the past several years to get excited about the NBA, but three former Hawkeyes are attempting to quickly change that.
Keegan Murray has been a solid addition to the Sacramento Kings since the organization drafted him in the first round of the 2022 NBA Draft, but fans can't see many of his games. His twin brother, Kris, was also playing way up north in Oregon before being traded to Memphis. Luka Garza was the third and final Hawkeye in the NBA last season, and finally had a breakout year.
Even though it doesn't count towards official stats, three former Hawkeyes are tearing up the Summer League for Oklahoma City.
Bennett Stirtz, Josh Dix, and Payton Sandfort are lighting up the Summer League
A fortuitous 2026 NBA Draft for OKC landed the organization two former Hawkeyes, including Bennett Stirtz (Rd. 1, Pick 16) and Josh Dix (undrafted FA). The two former Hawkeyes joined another former Hawkeye, Payton Sandfort, in the Thunder organization, and the new Thunder trio is giving Iowa and OKC fans everything they wanted and more.
Former Hawkeyes Payton Sandfort, Bennett Stirtz and Josh Dix combined for 55 of OKC Thunder’s 103 points tonight on 20/44 shooting.
— David Eickholt (@DavidEickholt) July 15, 2026
Even though the Thunder ultimately lost to the Denver Nuggets, Dix, Sandfort, and Stirtz showed out, scoring 55 of OKC's 103 points. Here are their stat lines from the thrilling loss:
- Bennett Stirtz (30 min): 22 points, two rebounds, six assists
- Payton Sandfort (27 min): 19 points, three rebounds, two assists
- Josh Dix (26 min): 14 points, six rebounds
The talented trio of former Iowa players scored 53 points on 45 percent shooting from the field, knocking down a combined 20 three-pointers in 83 minutes. They were the lion's share of the offense for the Thunder in the loss, it's not the first time. All three have been stellar throughout the summer, with Dix and Sandfort pushing for expanded roles. Sandfort was added to the Thunder's Summer League roster after spending last season with the organization's G League affiliate (Oklahoma City Blue), where his contract was converted to a two-way deal, before he was waived at the start of the summer.
Dix was signed to a two-way deal as an undrafted free agent, and he also has a lot to prove this summer heading into his first professional season. Stirtz has also played well, but his status on the team was much more solidified. Don't tell the trio that these games don't count because they have been giving everything they have and putting on a show for NBA fans across the country. All Hawkeye fans know what they bring to the table, but it is great to see they are all taking advantage of a great Summer League opportunity with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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