Former Iowa Stars Shine in Summer League Opener

Thunder Features Three Hawkeyes in Salt Lake City

The NBA’s Summer League got underway on Saturday afternoon in Salt Lake City, with the Oklahoma City Thunder facing the Memphis Grizzlies. Oklahoma City’s lineup included three former Iowa players: Bennett Stirtz, Payton Sandfort, and Josh Dix. Their performance set the tone for a lopsided contest that ended 111‑74 in Memphis’s favor.

Memphis’s roster counted one ex‑Hawkeye, Brendan Hausen, who joined the team later in the game. All four were making their 2026 Summer League debuts, looking to impress scouts ahead of the upcoming draft and contract talks.

Bennett Stirtz Delivers a Solid All‑Around Show

Stirtz logged 24 minutes and posted 10 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals. He hit 3 of his 6 field‑goal attempts and netted 2 of 3 three‑pointers. His ability to create looks for teammates and defend opponents impressed observers during the game.

While the game wasn’t a highlight‑filled explosion, Stirtz displayed the skill set that motivated the Thunder to consider him several weeks earlier. The box score suggests a well‑rounded performance that could help his draft stock.

Payton Sandfort Leads in Scoring Despite Shooting Struggles

Sandfort finished with a team‑high 13 points, converting 4 of 12 field goals and 2 of 9 attempts from beyond the arc. He saw 24 minutes of action and remains a sharpshooter at heart. Sandfort’s ability to get buckets was clear, even if his three‑point percentages were off.

Securing a two‑way contract will depend on his ability to consistently hit threes as the Summer League continues. His scoring punch gives Memphis reason to keep him in the mix.

Josh Dix Limited by Fouls in Brief Appearance

Dix started and played 20 minutes, contributing 5 points and 2 rebounds. He missed 4 of 6 field‑goal attempts and 3 of 4 three‑point tries. Foul trouble curtailed his minutes and impacted his rhythm early on.

Despite a quiet debut, Dix projects as a playmaker and shooter with upside. Additional minutes will give him a chance to showcase his full toolkit later in the league.

Brendan Hausen Closes the Game with a Three

Hausen entered the contest in the fourth quarter with the game already decided, scoring 3 points and hitting his lone three‑pointer. His brief stint highlighted his reliable shooting touch.

Moving forward, Hausen will need to maintain strong three‑point shooting to stay in the professional ranks. The basket he knocked down offered a hopeful sign for his future in the league.

Overall, the Summer League opener provided the four former Iowa stars with valuable experience and a platform to prove their readiness for the next level.