What happened: Memphis selected Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz with the 16th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, with Stirtz speaking to Lauren Green on the broadcast after his name was called. Per reporting around the pick, Stirtz is set to be traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder as part of a draft-night deal.

Why it matters: For Memphis, using the No. 16 slot as a trade asset fits a pick-stockpiling approach on draft night rather than an immediate roster add. For Oklahoma City, adding a college-proven lead guard deepens an already young backcourt heading into the 2026-27 season.

What to watch: Watch for the trade to be made official and for the Thunder to clarify Stirtz's role and Summer League plans.