KC’s NBA Draft Double Threat

Bennett Stirtz, a Liberty High standout, just became the latest KC metro sensation to explode onto the NBA scene—drafted 16th overall by the Grizzlies, then immediately traded to the Thunder for future assets. From D-II powerhouse Northwest Missouri to Iowa’s Big Ten stage, he dominated every stop, earning All-American honors and leading the Hawkeyes to the Elite Eight. His breakout season, capped by clutch scoring in deep tournament games, proves his rise wasn’t luck—it was relentless grind. And he’s not alone: fellow KC native Keaton Wagler also went top-five to the Clippers. It’s been two decades since two Kansas City players hit the first round together—this is homegrown basketball royalty. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/81d47e1ef9897800