Surprise Performances highlight Post-Season Run
Regular season play is complete and many teams are advancing through the post-season. Some are not. But as I scanned the state, I was surprised by the many student/athletes that made huge impacts on their teams. The following list is…
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Continue ReadingRegular season play is complete and many teams are advancing through the post-season. Some are not. But as I scanned the state, I was surprised by the many student/athletes that made huge impacts on their teams. The following list is a sample of young ladies that impressed me with their contribution to their teams success:
Sidney Brown-5’6″ PG, 2025 Harmony Grove H.S.-Sidney, pictured above, is a solid ball handler with the agility to use both hands equally. It’s like the ball is part of her body. She’s sneaky quick and has an excellent basketball IQ. When something needs to happen, the ball is in her hands. She’s the leader for the Lady Cardinals and, although their season is over, Sidney will return for her senior year to lead her team to a repeat post-season bid.
Madison Davidson-5’11” F, 2025 Lamar H.S.-Madison is a rebounding machine. Especially on the offensive end of the floor. She can post up or play facing the basket. She’s physical and has taken a team lead role for the Lady Warriors. Lamar has advanced from Regional play and Madison’s work on the boards has been a big part of that success.
Regan Crusinbery-5’7″ SG, 2027 Bentonville West H.S.-I was super impressed by this freshman’s performance at the 6A level. Regan not only held her own, but she has made a positive impact on her team. She’s a streak shooter and will knock down multiple 3’s in consecutive possessions. She has a nose for the ball on defense. Her team did not qualify for post season play, but look out for the next few years because Regan will help bring a winning tradition to the Lady Wolverine program.
Adrian Cox-5’6″ SG/PG, 2025 Dewitt H.S.-Adrian has the ball in her hands more than any other Lady Dragonette. She’s just a junior, but one of the oldest and most experience players on a very young Dewitt squad. Her leadership has grown throughout the year and with the talented skills of a young roster, Dewitt will make another post season appearance next season.
Kaylee Ward Kaylee Ward 6'3" | C Mansfield | 2026 State AR -6’4″ F, 2026 Mansfield H.S.-What a surprise. Just what a coach likes, a 6’4″ sophomore coming off the bench. The Mansfield Tigers are loaded with talent but Kaylee got my attention because of how she has advanced her play throughout this season. She needs to get stronger, but the size is there and she’ll only get better. Look for this program to make some headlines the next few years.
Kinley Smith Kinley Smith 6'1" | PF Fouke | 2026 State AR -6’1″ F, 2026 Fouke H.S.-Another impressive performer, Kinley has adapted to the high pressure defensive strategy of the Lady Panthers and it has increased her minutes on the court. Couple that with her size, and it means double-trouble for opponents. She can run the floor and as she gets stronger she’ll be more effective in the half court as well.
Stephana Steen-5’8″ SG, 2026 Dumas H.S.-Stepana has stepped up and contributed very nicely for the post position dominate offense of the Ladycats. She can protect the ball out front and work it inside to her bigs. She’s athletic and can defend. Stepana will attack the basket when given the opportunity and is very quick to her song side.
These ladies have progressively grown and elevated their games to make huge impacts on their respective teams. All are underclassmen and will return next season.