A college career that Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz describes as different is winding down as the Hawkeyes get ready to close the home schedule on Thursday night against third ranked Michigan. Stirtz began his career at Division II Northwest Missouri State before leading Drake to the NCAA Tournament. He followed coach Ban McCollum to Iowa for his final season.

After being named Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year at Drake had plenty of options. He is averaging just under 23 points per game, which ranks second in Big Ten play and is a major reason the Hawkeyes are likely headed back to the NCAA Tournament after missing out the past two seasons.

Stirtz says McCollum believed in him before he believed in himself.

Stirtz says he and McCollum are a good combination, even though their personalities are different.

The Hawkeyes are 10-8 in the Big Ten and 20-9 overall.