Iowa Basketball's Supporting Cast Shines in Overtime Loss

Hawkeyes' role players step up despite falling to Nebraska in extra period

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In Iowa's regular-season finale against Nebraska, the Hawkeyes' supporting cast showed encouraging signs despite the team's overtime loss. Bennett Stirtz, a key role player, scored 11 points in the game, demonstrating the depth of Iowa's roster beyond its star players.

Why it matters

While the Hawkeyes ultimately fell short, the performance of their supporting players is a positive sign heading into the postseason. A team's depth and ability to get production from role players can often be the difference in close, high-stakes games.

The details

Bennett Stirtz, a junior forward for the Hawkeyes, had a solid outing against the Cornhuskers, scoring 11 points and providing a valuable complement to Iowa's top scorers. The Hawkeyes' ability to get contributions from their supporting cast could be crucial as they look to make a deep run in the upcoming conference and NCAA tournaments.

  • The game took place on March 8, 2026, the final regular-season contest for the Hawkeyes.

The players

Bennett Stirtz

A junior forward for the Iowa Hawkeyes basketball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Iowa's performance in the regular-season finale, particularly the contributions from role players like Bennett Stirtz, suggests the Hawkeyes have the depth and balance to compete with the best teams in the country as they enter the postseason.