Bennett Stirtz Parents: Deep Dive into Roger and Renee Stirtz – The Close-Knit Family Behind Iowa Hawkeyes Star’s Success
Iowa City, IA – March 23, 2026 – Bennett Stirtz, the standout senior guard for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes, has captured national attention as a projected first-round NBA Draft pick thanks to his elite playmaking, scoring efficiency, and unmatched endurance. Born October 3, 2003, in Liberty, Missouri, Bennett’s path from a high school standout with no Division I offers to a Big Ten star is deeply rooted in his family—especially his parents, Roger Stirtz and Renee Stirtz. Their athletic backgrounds, unwavering support, and tight-knit dynamic have shaped Bennett’s character, work ethic, and on-court style.
Roger Stirtz: The Coach-Father Mentor Who Built Bennett’s Foundation
Roger Stirtz, Bennett’s father, played Division II basketball at Emporia State University in Kansas before embarking on a legendary 28-year coaching career in the Liberty school system. For 23 of those years, he served as head varsity boys basketball coach at Liberty High School—where he directly coached all three of his older sons, including Bennett. Roger’s resume includes 435 career wins, eight conference titles, induction into the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2023, and multiple Coach of the Year honors.
The father-son coaching relationship was profound and positive. Bennett grew up immersed in the gym: attending Roger’s practices, watching games, and starting intense early-morning workouts at 5:30 a.m. during his sophomore year of high school. Roger emphasized game intelligence over individual stats, noting Bennett could “read the game two passes before everyone else” and always prioritized assists. As Bennett recalled in interviews, “He obviously means a lot. My whole family means a lot to me in just the support they give me… My dad has always been a great mentor to me.“
Roger described their bond as special, with media outlets like WHO 13 highlighting interviews where he spoke warmly about embracing incredible moments together—from high school state runner-up finishes in 2021 to Bennett’s college breakthroughs. Even playful rivalries persist: after Bennett scored 36 points against Northwestern in 2026 (surpassing Roger’s college career-high of 34), he joked about teasing his dad in post-game pressers. Roger remains a steady influence, praising Bennett’s loyalty and simplicity in decisions, like following coach Ben McCollum through transfers without chasing NIL riches.
Renee Stirtz: The Track Star Mom Who Gave Bennett Legendary Endurance
Renee Stirtz, Bennett’s mother, competed in track and field at Kansas State University, instilling the physical conditioning that defines her son’s ironman reputation. Bennett leads the NCAA in minutes played (often 39–40 per game), crediting Renee’s genetics for his smooth running stride and natural stamina. Family vacations were never relaxing—they focused on activity, like hiking and climbing, reinforcing a lifelong habit of pushing limits.
Renee’s role extends beyond athletics; she’s part of a supportive, faith-centered home where Bennett draws strength from daily Bible study. The entire family attends games faithfully, with Renee and Roger rarely missing one during Roger’s coaching tenure.
Family Dynamics: Sibling Rivalry, Loyalty, and Shared Values
Bennett is the third of four boys—Mason (oldest), Caden, Bennett, and Cooper (youngest)—all raised in Liberty, Missouri. Driveway games fostered fierce competition and toughness. Siblings remain active outdoors: Mason summited Colorado’s 14ers, Caden completed a rim-to-rim-to-rim Grand Canyon trek, and Cooper climbs like a “mountain goat.” Extended family, including Renee’s parents Ken and Mary Russell, provided consistent support, attending games throughout Roger’s career.
Key Aspects of the Stirtz Family Relationship
| Aspect | Details | Impact on Bennett |
|---|---|---|
| Father-Son Coaching Bond | Roger coached Bennett at Liberty HS; early workouts, game IQ focus | Built basketball IQ, loyalty, assist-first mentality |
| Mother’s Athletic Influence | Renee’s track background at Kansas State; active family lifestyle | Elite endurance, smooth stride, stamina in long games |
| Sibling Competition | Four brothers; driveway battles, outdoor adventures | Work ethic, resilience, competitive drive |
| Family Support & Values | Close-knit, faith-driven; parents & in-laws at games; loyalty emphasized | Prioritizes team/coach over fame; grounded character |
| Quotes & Anecdotes | Roger: “Success breeds success”; Bennett on dad: “Great mentor” | Lifelong motivation, playful family rivalries |
This unbreakable family unit—rooted in competition, faith, and mutual respect—explains Bennett’s rise. From Liberty High to Iowa, the Stirtz parents’ guidance turned potential into stardom.
For more, visit Bennett’s official Iowa Hawkeyes profile or recent features on his journey.
