Adjusting to a new system, rookie Bennett Stirtz credited Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the rest of the Oklahoma City Thunder with simplifying the game for him.
Stirtz joined the Thunder after a productive senior year at Iowa, helping the program reach the Elite Eight for the first time in 39 years. As the lead guard, Stirtz was highly touted for his overall impact on games, which put him high on the Thunder's radar entering the draft.
The 16th overall pick will be utilized much differently this season, with back-to-back MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and other established players running the show. Whether he's on the ball or off it, Stirtz is willing to play any role asked of him.
"Whatever the team needs me to do to win, I'm going to do," Stirtz said
on Friday after practice. "It is easier when you have the best player in the world out there to make the game easier for you. Whatever I can do to help everyone else, I'll do it."
Stirtz is averaging 17.5 points, five rebounds and four assists while shooting 53.8% from 3-point range through the Thunder's first two preseason games. He debuted with 15 points on Tuesday, followed by a 20-point effort on Wednesday.
With the Thunder excelling at ball movement, the 22-year-old should get plenty of open catch-and-shoot looks on any given night. He should also have the green light to create for himself on the court when the opportunity presents itself.
The Thunder returned to practice on Friday after their back-to-back set, giving Stirtz another chance to learn the system and playbook. He is learning each day and looking to make the most of those situations before opening night on Oct. 20.
"We're getting there each and every day," Stirtz said. "Just trying to get better one day at a time. It is going to take time; there are going to be ups and downs. My head is kind of spinning out there, so it is just going to take experience and time."
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Thunder rookie Bennett Stirtz credits MVP teammate for making the game easier
