Conference Preview: 6A Central

Conference play across Arkansas is finally here! Let's start in the middle of the state, a conference that consists of North Little Rock, Little Rock Central, Little Rock Southwest, Conway, Bryant, Cabot, and Jonesboro. Without further ado, let's breakdown each one of those squads, in order of where I think they will be at the end of the year standings.   <h1 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">North Little Rock Lady Charging Wildcats</h1>   2025-26 Record: 15-3 (1-0 6A Central)   Notable Wins: Har-Ber (54-40), Greenwood (70-58), Greene County Tech (69-44), Fayetteville (50-48)   2024-25 Record: 22-10 (9-3 6A Central- 3rd); Lost in 2025 6A Semis to Fayetteville (58-69)   Head Coach: Daryl Fimple (20th season)   Biggest Miss: Kinley Mears graduated (#22 in PGH '25; committed to Texas-Dallas)   My Projected Finish: 1st in 6A Central (could certainly be top 3 in all of 6A)   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Primary Starting Lineup:</h2>   Point Guard: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/lauren-brewster/">[player_tooltip player_id='1090334' first='Lauren' last='Brewster']</a>   As sophomore in 24/25, Brewster earned an all-conference selection after averaging 7.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. So far this season, Brewster has had notable performances, such as her game in the season opener against Jacksonville, where she put up 12 points, 3 boards, and 5 steals. In the FirstNBClassic tournament, Brewster had a solid three games, posting totals of 16 points, 9 rebounds, 12 assists, 19 steals and deflections, and only 2 turnovers.   The junior guard is an excellent floor general. She knows where her teammates are at all times, and she is a steady presence with the ball in her hands. She doesn't rush anything, but on the other end of the floor, Brewster can single-handedly stop the opposition's offense attack. She forces turnovers left and right, instantly triggering the fastbreak for her squad. From head coach Daryl Fimple:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "True facilitator, pushes the ball off of glass, great at making people around her better. Has really worked on her decision making, defensive positioning, and shooting the 3." </blockquote>   Brewster recently picked up an offer from Division II Arkansas-Monticello.   Shooting Guard: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/katie-fimple/">[player_tooltip player_id='876286' first='Katie' last='Fimple']</a>   Fimple is a 2x all-conference performer and an all-state performer in 24/25. She averaged 13.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game while shooting 43% from beyond the arc in 6A Central play. One of her better games this year was against Nashville, where she lit them up for 19 points on 5/9 shooting from three. She also added 3 assists.   Fimple can play both the 2-guard and the point, and it helps that she is a pure 3-point sharpshooter. She can get her shot going off the catch and off the dribble, and she finds ways to exploit defenses whenever she is looking to drive. On the move, she knows just where to find her open teammates. From head coach Daryl Fimple:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "(She's) going to play on and off the ball. Has gained 15 pounds of muscle since last year." </blockquote>   Fimple has committed to Nick Long and Division II Ouachita Baptist University, and she is set to join the up-and-coming GAC squad next fall.   Small Forward: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/elicia-shepherd/">[player_tooltip player_id='1060878' first='Elicia' last='Shepherd']</a>   Shepherd averaged 11.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per contest in a breakout 24/25 season. She earned all-conference and all-state tournament selections as a junior. In the FirstNBClassic this past December, she recorded 22 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 steals/deflections across three contests.   The senior forward is a do-it-all wing who is exceptional in the paint on both ends of the floor. Offensively, she finishes efficiently around the basket. She has a soft touch and though she is slightly undersized for your typical forward, she has no issue hitting shots over taller defenders. Though she may lack some height, she makes up for it with her long wingspan, which serves her well on the defensive end, as she has a knack for poking away passes. From head coach Daryl Fimple:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "Extremely athletic, can get to the rim, really work on her ability to shoot the 3. Defensively can guard 1-5." </blockquote>   Shepherd has received three offers: one from Division III Lyon College, one from Division III Eureka College, and another from NAIA Crowley's Ridge College.   Power Forward: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/nia-edwards/">[player_tooltip player_id='1183249' first='Nia' last='Edwards']</a>   Edwards was a spark plug on both ends of the floor for NLR last season, averaging 5.2 points, and 2.1 rebounds per game, while shooting 38% from three. The senior forward has had some solid performances this year, including a 7-point, 2-rebound, 2-assist outing in the season opener against Jacksonville, where she knocked down 2 triples.   Edwards is the definition of a 3 & D wing. She can knock down the outside shot while being able to rebound and defend effectively at the other end. Head Coach Daryl Fimple holds this senior in high regard:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "Going to be a pivotal part in team success able to play multiple positions." </blockquote>   Edwards is already committed to move on to the next level, as she is committed to play for Texas A&M-Texarkana. The Eagles are currently NAIA, but they are set to transition to Division II for the 2026-27 season.   Center: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/mia-hopkins/">[player_tooltip player_id='1180760' first='Mia' last='Hopkins']</a>   One of the biggest strengths of this team is its depth at center, and it all starts with [player_tooltip player_id='1180760' first='Mia' last='Hopkins']. As a sophomore last season, Hopkins nearly averaged a double-double with 9.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.8 rejections a night. She was an all-conference performer and she swatted 68 total shots in 24/25, while recording 8 double-doubles. So far this year, she is looking just as impactful as she was named to the Mansfield ISD Tournament all-tournament squad. She already has 4 double-doubles on the year, with one of her most recent ones coming against Nashville, where she recorded 11 points, 13 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Head Coach Daryl Fimple knew this would happen when we spoke before the season started:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "Numerous recruiting interests are looking for a huge junior year. Mobile tall kid, has gained strength in the weight room, can run stretch floors with 3. Great shot blocker." </blockquote>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Impact Players of the Bench</h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/marley-adebayo/">[player_tooltip player_id='1260334' first='Marley' last='Adebayo']</a>- I'm pretty sure Adebayo has already found her way into the starting lineup this season, but she has been the ultimate difference-maker off the bench. She averaged 16.2 points per game in junior high and took that team to the conference championship and logged a 27-1 overall record. Now, she is repeating her success with the varsity squad, especially against Brock (Texas), where she put up 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks. She also had 10 points and a block against Forest Hill in the S.T.R.O.N.G. Showcase in Jacksonville. Coach Fimple had one simple phrase when describing Adebayo's game:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "Walking mismatch." </blockquote>   Adebayo is a strong finisher in the paint, using her size and athleticism to her advantage. She has better coordination and IQ than most freshman bigs, and I look forward to seeing how she develops over the course of the season.   Adebayo has received an offer from Division I Abilene Christian.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/zoey-mccall/">[player_tooltip player_id='1260339' first='Zoey' last='McCall']</a>- Having multiple 6-footers coming off the bench, just as freshmen, is one of the many reasons I have picked NLR to finish the season at the top of the 6A Central standings. McCall has looked exceptional coming off the bench, giving the Lady Charging Wildcats a twin towers look with her and Adebayo (or Hopkins). I got to see McCall in person against Forest Hill at the S.T.R.O.N.G. Showcase in late November, and she starred. She logged a double-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 1 block. Coach Fimple recognized the talent early on:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "A great shot blocker, tough with her back to the basket, can really shoot trail 3." </blockquote>   Like he said, McCall is great with her back to the basket. She can back down her defender with ease thanks to her strength, and she can turn and finish around the cup with a soft touch. She is also a beast on the offensive glass, turning boards into points.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/jaliyah-white/">[player_tooltip player_id='876332' first='Jaliyah' last='White']</a>- White has been a constant for NLR the last two seasons. Now, she is playing well as a senior. She averaged 3.5 points and 3.3 boards a night last year, and now she is pushing herself even harder on the defensive end, as she had a recent 2-steal, 7-rebound, and 5-point performance against Flower Mound. Against Greenwood in December, White had a well-rounded performance with 4 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block. Coach Fimple raved about his senior 3&D wing before the season:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "Best perimeter defender, looking for a huge senior year and has the ability to change games with her defense and ability to push the ball." </blockquote>   On a team with Brewster, Shepherd, Edwards, and others, calling White NLR's best perimeter defender is a high achievement. She had 58 steals last season, and she is looking to be on track so far this year, as she has been forcing turnovers left and right.   She has received an offer from Division III Eureka College.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/krisslyn-bryant/">[player_tooltip player_id='1356661' first='Krisslyn' last='Bryant']</a>- Bryant has the potential to be a spark plug scorer off the bench for North Little Rock. After playing limited minutes as a sophomore, Bryant looks to be in for a big year as the primary ball-handler for the Lady Charging Wildcats off the bench. She has made solid plays, including splashing a pure 3-pointer in an out-of-state matchup against South Maize. Coach Fimple knew she would find her place in the rotation early on:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "Really have seen her lately mature. True play maker that can shoot it at a high clip." </blockquote>   Bryant has a ways to grow, but she is already a stellar shooter. She has a quick, pure release and she can easily knock down shots off the dribble, but she is very solid off the catch. Her ball-handling is coming along, and her defense is improving.   Da'Liah Batemon- NLR still brings length off the bench with "Dee" Batemon. The senior forward averaged 3.2 points per game last year while being able to score in the paint, from three, and from the mid-range. Batemon is impactful for this team, and Coach Fimple recognizes it:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> "Instant offense, can score on all three levels and has played a lot of basketball. Really pushing herself this year." </blockquote>   Batemon can get going from outside, but she is at her best when attacking the paint, thanks to her 5'10" frame. Her wingspan also allows her to make a positive impact on the defensive end, especially in the passing lanes.   Other Key Players:   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/bailey-rae-eason/">[player_tooltip player_id='1224290' first='Bailey' last='Eason']</a>-   Coach Fimple: "Averaged 10.4 points in junior high last year...Started last year on a 27-1 conference championship team. Can score on all three levels, versatility to play inside and outside. Recently offered by UALR."   [player_tooltip player_id='1264143' first='Layla' last='Smith'] (5'6" 2028)-   Coach Fimple: "Averaged 8.6 points in junior high last year. Tough guard that can play 1-3. Doing a great job running the team. Can score on all 3 levels. Will be able to ease her in and she will get tons of reps in practice. Could really help us late into the season."   Layla Jouvenaux (5'5" 2028)-   Coach Fimple: "Averaged 6.2 points and shot 35% from 3 in junior high last year. Getting stronger defensively has to get better guarding in space. Bright future with her ability to stretch Floor."   D'Shya Bunch (6'0" 2027)-   Coach Fimple: "Got to catch her up but she is a force on the glass and could really help us by the end of the year. Very physical kid."   Erica Shepherd (5'7" 2028)-   Coach Fimple: "Very athletic, going to be great in JV and can carve her."   Jade Harrison (5'3" 2028)-   Coach Fimple: "Great kid, works hard in practice. Going to play a lot in JV."   <h1 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Conway Lady Wampus Cats</h1>   2025-26 record: 11-7 (1-0 6A Central)   Notable Wins: Little Rock Christian (67-60), Springdale (57-46), Mountain Home (59-54)   2024-25 record: 29-3 (11-1 6A Central) (lost in 2nd round of 6A playoffs)   Head Coach: Ashley Hutchcraft   Biggest Miss: graduated Emerie Bohanon (#1 in PGH '25; committed to UCA), Samyah Jordan (#3 in PGH '25; committed to Three Rivers CC), Alexis Cox (#10 in PGH '25; committed to UCA), Alivia Cox (#45 in PGH '25; committed to UCA), Dekeria Carter (#231 in PGH '25)   My Projected Finish: #2 in 6A Central, still a top-10 team in AR   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Go-To Stars</h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/traniyah-weston/">[player_tooltip player_id='1090347' first='Traniyah' last='Weston']</a>- Conway's star point guard has been balling so far this season. During the Sandra Meadows Classic, she put up 20 points, 7 assists, 8 steals, and 10 deflections against Weiss (TX). She had 7 steals against Prestonwood (TX), along with her 18 points and 8 deflections. She had 24 points against another Texas squad.   Weston is clearly a phenomenal defender. There is not a pass she can't tip away, or a handle she can't swipe. She is the true definition of a "pickpocket" and if I was the opposing ball-handler, I would get annoyed with how aggressive she is on that side of the floor. In addition to her great defense is her killer scoring ability. Weston can put her hand down and get to the basket with ease, but don't forget about that outside shot, as she can make the defense pay for leaving her open.   Weston has offers from Division I UAPB and JUCO Three Rivers College.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/kylie-johnson-3/">[player_tooltip player_id='1090383' first='Kylie' last='Johnson']</a>- Johnson was the first freshman starting for Conway since Chloe Clardy, who is now a star at Stanford. Now as sophomore, Johnson continues to light it up, as she had an impressive showing at the Sandra Meadows Classic. Against La Vega (TX), the sophomore star lit up the scoreboard with 23 points, which was after logging 21 points against Weiss (TX). She also had another 20+ point outing against Denton Ryan (TX), posting 24 points.   Johnson attacks the basket with force, and few have successfully stopped her. However, she has solid footwork and control, and she never looks out of control whenever the ball is in her hands. From the outside, you have to close out on Johnson, especially in the corners, because she is a bonafide 3-point sniper in those spots. On the other end of the floor, she has shown that she is one of the better wing rebounders in the 6A classification.   She needs more offers, but these schools were smart and went ahead and struck first: Division I Arkansas, Division I UALR, and Division I SEMO have all sent her offers.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/miraiyh-wilson/">[player_tooltip player_id='1091165' first='Mi'Raiyh' last='Wilson']</a>- After primarily being a role player off the bench as a junior last season, Wilson is blossoming into a star. Against Mountain Home in December, she was impactful on both ends of the floor, posting 14 points and 5 steals. She was even better against Van Buren, nipping the Pointers with 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 steals. It seems like every Wampus Cat played well against Weiss, in addition to Wilson, who scored 18 points and snagged 10 boards in the game.   Wilson is an excellent rebounder, using her length and athleticism to set the tone inside. On defense, that length comes in handy, as she throws off post players with her ability to intercept passes and to rip ball-handlers. Now as a junior, Wilson has been given the green light to create her own offense. She is an excellent slasher, but she really sets herself apart with her ability to stretch the floor, opening up a plethora of driving lanes for Conway.   Wilson has already been offered by Division II Delta State.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/nicole-jones/">[player_tooltip player_id='1260301' first='Nicole' last='Jones']</a>- [player_tooltip player_id='1260301' first='Nicole' last='Jones'] is turning into a star, and pretty soon, this Lady Wampus Cat offense will be hers to lead. Against La Vega at the Sandra Meadows Classic, the freshman put up 16 points and stole the ball 3 times. Before that, she had a solid outing against Greenland, logging double-digits again with 10 points in addition to her 2 steals.   Jones has a great feel for the game, and she is not even through with her freshman campaign. She is a great scorer who is able to get to the basket whenever she wants, but she is even better when she is rising up for a jumper. Of course, she is proving her worth on the defensive end of the floor, and that will allow her to stay in the rotation throughout the year.   Division I's UAPB and Alabama A&M have already noticed the talent, sending her offers before her freshman season began.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key Supporting Pieces</h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/natylie-baker/">[player_tooltip player_id='1260337' first='Natylie' last='Baker']</a>- Another freshman who is lighting it up from beyond is Baker, and she proved that against Quincy (IL) in early December, pulling down 8 rebounds and splashing 4 triples. In the Sandra Meadows Classic against Prestonwood, Baker was cooking with 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals.   Baker has gotten playing time not just because she knocks down in-rhythm triples off the catch, but because of her willingness to do the little things to help her team win. She is crashing the glass as just a guard, forcing turnovers, and playing sound defense (not exactly little things).   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/libby-counts/">[player_tooltip player_id='579754' first='Libby' last='Counts']</a>- After starring for Maumelle Charter as a freshman, Counts made the move to Conway, where she is finally starting getting into the rotation. So far this season, she is finding ways to contribute, such as against Parkview in November, where she had 4 points, 4 boards, a steal, and a block. Versus Greenland a month later, the junior center had another impactful performance, putting up 5 points while still making her presence felt on the defensive side of the ball.   Counts is a force in the paint. She has good footwork, and she is a tough finisher around the basket, with the ability to find open teammates with her passing. Counts has also shown that she can play solid defense, blocking shots and picking off passing with her solid defensive instincts.   Counts has since been offered by Division III Lyon College.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/tag/janiyah-black/">Janiyah Black</a>- Janiyah Black has made some solid plays, primarily as a reserve center for the Lady Wampus Cats, however, they don't win games without her. Against Little Rock Southwest earlier this month, Black was fantastic on the defensive end, recording 4 steals to go along with her 1 point, 1 rebound, and 2 assists.   Black is not known for her scoring, though she can make plays around the basket. The way that Coach Hutchcraft uses her senior big is mostly around the perimeter, where she is successful at forcing turnovers when coming over to double ball-handlers. Her length and aggression bother ball-handlers, and especially against LRSW, she forced the opposition to cough up the ball several times.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/deasia-neal/">[player_tooltip player_id='1260223' first='De'Asia' last='Neal']</a>- Compared to other freshmen on this team, we haven't seen as much from Neal, but what we have seen has been very promising. Neal is a physical forward who can't be stopped when she attacks the basket. She is a great finisher who has a soft touch around the rim. She is also a solid passer, showing off her passing ability during a game this past November, where she finished with 7 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks.   Neal is capable of producing all-around performances. Whether she is called upon to score, rebound, facilitate, or defend, Neal will do it to the best of her ability, making her team better in the process.   <h1 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Bryant Lady Hornets</h1>   2025-26 record- 12-6 (0-0 6A Central)   Notable Wins- Lakeside (80-48), Nettleton (74-37), Greers Ferry Westside (55-47), Fayetteville (60-58), Greenwood (61-42), Nashville (54-46), Little Rock Christian (57-55)   2024-25 record- 15-16 (3-6 6A Central) (lost in first round of playoffs to Bentonville)   Head Coach- Eric Teague   Biggest Miss- graduated Austyn Oholendt (#47 in PGH '25; committed to OBU), India Robinson (#82 in PGH '25; committed to Jefferson College), Skylar Percy (#85 in PGH '25; committed to Lyon College), Landis Brewer (WL in PGH '25), [player_tooltip player_id='1060899' first='Brooklyn' last='Kuchinski']   My Projected Finish- #3 in 6A Central (has a case to be a top-15 team in AR)   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Primary Starters</h2>   Point Guard: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/gia-campbell/">[player_tooltip player_id='753259' first='Gia' last='Campbell']</a>   Bryant's floor general has had a solid season leading the Hornets' offense. She had a great all-around outing against Greenwood, putting up 10 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block. She had a similar performance against Vilonia, logging 10 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 swipes.   Campbell is a solid scorer. She can knock down shots off the bounce and off the catch from beyond the arc, getting going with just a few makes. She can score the ball effectively, but she is even better at distributing to her star teammates. Campbell has excellent court vision and she understands how to play with numbers in transition.   Shooting Guard: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/keila-dailey/">[player_tooltip player_id='1090888' first='Keila' last='Dailey']</a>   Dailey has improved in all aspects of the game. She had 9 points, 3 boards, 4 assists, and 4 steals against Hutchison in December, which was after putting up 11 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals against Camden Fairview. Dailey was even better when it came to bucket-getting against Fayetteville earlier this year when she put up 16 points in addition to 2 rebounds and 4 steals.   Dailey is a 3-point sniper, but she has proven to be a solid facilitator, making sure to get her teammates opportunities before firing off her own shots. She is also a good defender, typically guarding the opposition's top guards, and shutting them down.   Small Forward: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/kierstan-dailey/">[player_tooltip player_id='1183259' first='Kierstan' last='Dailey'] </a>   Dailey has been Bryant's most improved player so far this year, and she has been excellent with her all-around play. She nearly had a double-double against Greenwood, scoring 11 points and pulling down 9 rebounds, along with racking up 4 steals. She had another solid scoring outing against Nettleton, scoring 12 points in addition to her 3 boards, 3 assists, and 2 steals. From what I've seen, Dailey's best offensive performance was against Camden Fairview, where she put up 15 points and 2 assists.   Dailey is a much improved 3-point shooter, and a move determined driver and finisher. However, she is even better on the defensive end. She has a long wingspan for her size, and excellent defensive IQ, picking pockets, and intercepting passes like a DB. Though she may be undersized for her position, she makes up for it with her determination. With that in mind, she is an exceptional rebounder.   Power Forward: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/jaisha-williams/">[player_tooltip player_id='1090371' first='Jaisha' last='Williams']</a>   Bryant's star was great as a freshman last year, and now she is taking off in year 2. One of Williams' best performances this year was against Fayetteville, where she put up 27 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks. She was everywhere in that game, just like she was against Nettleton, where she logged 22 points, 9 boards, and 3 rejections. She had more impressive scoring performances, but she was a force on the defensive end versus Mills, where she recorded 5 steals and 3 blocks to go along with 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 dishes.   Williams is probably more of a natural small forward, as she loves to create on the perimeter. She is a great 3-point shooter off the catch, but she is just as dangerous when attacking the basket. Her length and athleticism make her a matchup nightmare on offense, as well as on the glass, where she is nearly impossible to successfully box out.   Center: <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/carrington-marks/">[player_tooltip player_id='1265291' first='Carrington' last='Marks']</a>   Marks has made the most of her playing time with the Lady Hornets this year. Earlier this year against Westside, she had a near-double-double with 11 points and 8 boards. She definitely wanted that double-double, because she took the next opportunity against Greenwood to record one, putting up 12 points and 11 rebounds in addition to her 2 steals.   Marks is a high-energy player who does not give up on plays. She fights for boards, and is equally as dangerous on the offensive glass as she is on the defensive glass. I can tell she will be a great player for Bryant when her career is all said and done, as she has excellent touch around the basket and solid coordination, even as a young player.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Impact Players off the Bench</h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/bayleigh-walker/">[player_tooltip player_id='1260224' first='Bayleigh' last='Walker']</a>- Walker has essentially been Bryant's 6th-person, and she has proven to be an offensive spark. One of her best performances was against Benton, where she was scoring well, logging 12 points to go along with her 3 rebounds. She played well against Vilonia as well, putting up 9 points, and we can't forget about her play against Nettleton, where she knocked in 8 points.   Walker is an excellent 3-point shooter, who is becoming more and more comfortable knocking down shots off the catch. She also does the little things every player looking to earn more minutes: move without the basketball.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/lois-fabunmi/">[player_tooltip player_id='1260221' first='Lois' last='Fabunmi']</a>- Like Walker, Fabunmi is doing the little/unsung things to get on the court, and it's paying off. In the Nettleton matchup, the freshman posted 8 points and 3 deflections, but her best performance so far has been against Westside, where she scored double-digits with 11, grabbed 4 rebounds, and recorded 1 steal.   Fabunmi moves without the basketball with purpose. She cuts hard to the basket, runs in transition, and knocks down open shots. The freshman is a nice finisher and a tough defender, rounding out her crucial impact off the bench.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/paris-lacy/">[player_tooltip player_id='1355553' first='Paris' last='Lacy']</a>- It's hard to earn more minutes in this lineup, but Lacy probably deserves a lot more. One of her better outings this year was against Nettleton, where Lacy recorded 6 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal. She also had 4 points off the bench against Westside.   Lacy finds ways to get buckets. Whether she is hitting open looks or cutting to the basket, she is finding ways to add to the scoreboard. When she is not doing that, she is looking to come away with stops at the other end of the floor.   <h1 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Little Rock Central Lady Tigers</h1>   2025-26 record: 8-8 (0-1 6A Central)   Notable Wins: Greenwood (67-62), Marion (61-48), Parkview (60-30)   2024-25 record: 21-7 (10-2 6A Central) (lost to Fort Smith Northside in 2nd round of 6A playoffs)   Head Coach: Marlon Williams   Biggest Miss: Ky Wilson (#13 in PGH '25: committed to Three Rivers CC), Taylor Day-Davis (#18 in PGH '25; committed to Trinity Valley CC), Ameriya Gaston (#55 in PGH '25; committed to Three Rivers CC), Chloey-Rei Brown (#70 in PGH '25; committed to Hendrix College), Alexis Bradford (WL in PGH '25)   My Projected Finish: #4/5 in 6A Central (have potential to be a top 30 team in the state)   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Go-To Stars </h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/rosebella-onyango/">[player_tooltip player_id='1183222' first='Rosebella' last='Onyango']</a>- Onyango was still a developing player last year, but now, she is quickly becoming a star. The Central star had 21 points and 6 boards against Fayetteville, which is not long after recording a double-double of 13 points and 11 boards against Greenwood. She also excelled in a difficult matchup against Fort Smith Northside this year, logging 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals.   On offense, Onyango's bread and butter is crashing the glass or rolling after setting a pick. However, she has spent a lot of time developing her perimeter game. She is far more comfortable than last year at knocking down mid-range and 3-point shots off the catch, along with hitting shots after creating space off the dribble. Defensively, Onyango is a great shot blocker, but she is clearly showing just how good she is at forcing turnovers and picking off passes, as she also had 4 steals against Parkview early in the year.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/janae-johnson/">[player_tooltip player_id='881232' first='Janae' last='Johnson']</a>- After Central lost 4 of its 5 starters from last year's tournament squad, they needed to find somebody to pick up the scoring slack. With Johnson, I think they found their solution. The sophomore found her rhythm during the First NB Classic tournament, averaging 15.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.0 steals a game.   Johnson is an incredible driver. Her size and athleticism make her tough to guard in the paint, especially when she has her head down and she is full-steam ahead. She is also developing her outside shot, and I think she has the potential to be one of the most dynamic scorers in the conference when it is all said and done. Johnson is also a pest on the defensive end, forcing turnovers while snagging every board she can.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/elyse-williams/">[player_tooltip player_id='884753' first='E'lyse' last='Williams']</a>- As the lone returning starter from last year's squad, Williams needs to have a big season, and she is starting to put it all together. Williams played more as a 2-guard last year, but this year, she has been manning the point, and she looks like a natural.   The senior has great court vision, and she loves to draw defensive attention in the paint, then dump it off to an open teammate for a layup. She keeps her eyes up when dribbling up the court, ready to pass up ahead. In other areas of offense, I can tell she has looked more comfortable and confident shooting from outside, which will be a major step up in her game. Williams' defense has also been stellar, but I expect that from her.   Williams currently holds an offer from JUCO National Park College.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key Supporting Pieces</h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/gabrielle-sanders/">[player_tooltip player_id='1060883' first='Gabrielle' last='Sanders']</a>- I've been wanting to see more from Sanders for a while now, and finally, I am seeing results. During the First NB Classic, the senior averaged 7.7 points across 3 games, in addition to 2.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2.7 steals per contest. In the first game of the year, Sanders got off to a solid start, filling the box score with 8 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 5 steals, and 1 block. She followed that up with a 10-point performance in a blowout win over West Memphis in late November.   Sanders is a solid slasher. She is patient and takes what the defense gives her, while also being a great defender herself. The senior is still improving from beyond the arc, but it is important that she continues to shoot with confidence, otherwise, it won't help her team all that much.   As of now, Sanders has offers from Lyon College, Southwestern College, and Eureka College.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/moriah-bates/">[player_tooltip player_id='1183242' first='Moriah' last='Bates']</a>- I knew that Bates was ready to move up from JV last year, but she was stuck in a great guard rotation. Now, she is lighting it up from beyond this year. Bates had a particular impactful outing against Fayetteville, where she splashed in 4 threes enroute to a career-high of 16 points.   Bates is a great outside shooter, who cannot see an open look off the catch (frankly, there isn't a look she doesn't like). She has a quick shooting release and a high-arching shot, making contests from defenses difficult or non-effective.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/alexis-montgomery/">[player_tooltip player_id='1060888' first='Alexis' last='Montgomery']</a>- I don't think anyone pushing the pace harder than Montgomery, making her an excellent point guard for this Tiger team. The senior is great in transition, pushing full-court and usually finding an open teammate or scoring 2. She is a solid finisher, but besides facilitating, I would say that Montgomery's best ability is her defensive intensity, which is extremely helpful to this team whenever she steps on the floor.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/jada-crawford/">[player_tooltip player_id='1180646' first='Jada' last='Crawford']</a>- Crawford transferred from nearby Little Rock Parkview, and she is finding success. The forward is a solid finisher in the paint, but she clears out a lot of space under the basket when fighting for a rebound, which she grabs several of. On defense, Crawford has the length and athleticism to block shots consistently.   Jackson State and St. Clair College have both offered Crawford.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/kori-london-poole/">[player_tooltip player_id='1264145' first='Kori' last='London-Poole']</a>- We haven't seen a lot of London-Poole just yet, but I would imagine that will change. The freshman has already shown a glimpse as to what he can provide, primarily in the game against West Memphis, where she racked up 8 points during the big win.   <h1 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Jonesboro Lady Hurricane</h1>   2025-26 record: 15-4 (1-0 6A Central)   Notable Wins: Valley View (57-53), Beebe (42-39 & 38-34), Brookland (60-28), Harding Academy (40-36), Cabot (55-43 > opens up conference play)   2024-25 record: 5-23 (2-10 6A Central) (lost in 1st round of 6A playoffs to Fort Smith Northside)   Biggest Miss: graduated Eljanae Daniels   My Projected Finish: #4/5 in 6A Central (has potential to be a top-25 team in AR, but will they be as good in conference as they were during non-conference?)   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Go-To Stars</h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/amiyah-wilborn/">[player_tooltip player_id='1417174' first='Amiyah' last='Wilborn']</a>- Jonesboro does not have one player that sticks out as the go-to star, they have several, with one being Wilborn. The Hurricane center has been close to notching a double-double multiple times this season, including against Jonesboro Westside, where she logged 15 points and 8 rebounds. Against Fort Smith Southside, she put up 10 points and 8 boards, and then versus Valley View the day before, she had 8 points and 6 rebounds.   Wilborn is a beast in the paint, grabbing board after board. A lot of her scoring comes from putting back shots off the rebound, and she is a solid finisher. On the other end of the floor, she uses her physicality to box out her opponents and her strength to keep them from getting position in the paint. She is also a solid shot-blocker with good anticipation and timing.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/dmiyaah-wright/">[player_tooltip player_id='1417173' first='D'Miyaah' last='Wright']</a>- Wright has been productive this season, and she showed against Valley View, where she notched 8 points and 7 boards. Against Maumelle in November, she was solid again, putting up 10 points and 5 boards.   Wright is a solid finisher and a tough rebounder, using her toughness and athleticism to get the job done. She is also great on the defensive end, and she showed out against Sylvan Hills, blocking 3 shots and recording 2 steals.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/kimani-carter/">[player_tooltip player_id='1438952' first='Kimani' last='Carter']</a>- Carter has played well as a young player, putting up 9 points against Fort Smith Southside in November. She has also had another 9-point outing in November and a 7-point performance in December.   Carter, a lefty, is a good 3-point shooter who can knock shots down off the catch with ease. She has a quick release and she helps stretch the Hurricane offense out. On defense, Carter has excellent anticipation, reading the eyes of passers and coming away with steals. She will immediately push the action off the turnover in transition.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/lacy-hall/">[player_tooltip player_id='1439050' first='Lacy' last='Hall']</a>- Hall, another solid guard, had 9 points against Fort Smith Southside in November. She also had a great outing at the beginning of the year against West Memphis, where she had 10 points, 4 assists, and 4 steals.   Hall is at her best when attacking the basket, as she embraces contact, and finishes with a soft touch. Her defense is also impressive, being a threat to intercept passes and start the fastbreak.   Skylar Gambrell- Gambrell has had her moments this season. Against Manila, she scored 10 points, and she helped stretch the floor against West Memphis earlier in the year.   Gambrell is a solid 3-point shooter, especially off the catch. If she has enough space, she is not afraid to dial up a shot, so the defense must go out and contest her.   Chassidy Rodgers- Rodgers has had some solid scoring outings so far this season. Against Brookland, she scored 10, but she was even better against Cabot, finishing with 13.   Rodgers can certainly get it done offensively, but her poise under pressure has been vital to Jonesboro this year, especially in their win against Beebe. Rodgers knocked down a pair of free throws late in that matchup to put the game out of reach. That is exactly what you want from a veteran.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/cady-brown/">Caydnn Brown</a>- Brown is one of the most talented players on this Lady Hurricane squad. Against Cabot, she put up 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals. In an overtime victory versus Valley View in November, she scored 16.   Brown is an exceptional athlete. She is much faster than her opponents, streaking down the court in transition, outrunning her opponents. She is a solid finisher who uses her long reach to score around taller players. Brown's outside shot is still developing, but with her shooting form, she will be able to get her shot going whenever she wants. On defense, she is a pest, making opposing ball-handlers highly uncomfortable, and forcing them to make horrible decisions.   <h1 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Cabot Lady Panthers</h1>   2025-26 record: 12-6 (0-1 6A Central)   Notable Wins: eStem (54-41), Benton (42-41), Marion (38-30), Dumas (45-37)   2024-25 record: 11-19 (4-6 6A Central) (lost to Fayetteville in 1st round of 6A playoffs)   Head Coach: Jay Cook   Biggest Miss: [player_tooltip player_id='1060894' first='Kaylin' last='Bean'] (transferred to Maumelle), Kaitlyn Graves, Taylor Alkire   My Projected Finish: #6 in 6A Central   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Go-To Stars</h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/jayda-cook/">[player_tooltip player_id='1180576' first='Jayda' last='Cook']</a>- Cook is a major part of Cabot's scheme, and she has been productive as a sophomore. In the 3rd Place game against Paragould at the Atlas Asphalt tournament in December, Cook put up 12 points in a big time win. She also had 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals, and 1 block in that game. In another matchup against Paragould, she was even better, scoring 18 points, pulling down 5 boards, dishing out 4 assists, and coming away with 5 steals.   Cook is at her best when she is on the fastbreak. She often starts the break herself when she intercepts a pass and racing down to the other end of the floor to finish. She has no fear when attacking the basket, finishing through any contact or traffic that is in her way.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/avery-steelman/">[player_tooltip player_id='1438116' first='Avery' last='Steelman']</a>- The freshman is looking like a star in the making so far this season. Steelman had a big game against Bentonville this year, scoring 15. She had 12 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal in a recent matchup with Jonesboro.   Steelman can flat-out shoot the ball. The lefty has a great shooting form and a high release, making it difficult to successfully contest her shot. Against the Lady Hurricane, she knocked down 2 triples. It is also worth noting that her hot spots seem to be in either corner, which is always evident with solid 3&D wings, which she is already turning into.   Serenity Ehret- Ehret's role has increased this season, and she is making the most of it. She was the game MVP versus Paragould at the Atlas Asphalt tournament in December, and she recently had a solid all-around impact against Jonesboro, logging 4 points, 6 boards, 2 assists, and 1 steal. She had a similar outing against Lake Hamilton in December, putting up 5 points and 8 rebounds.   Ehret is an excellent defender. She can jump the passing lanes and take advantage of loose balls, all while playing outstanding on-ball defense. She can also crash the glass, able to box out bigger opponents. On offense, Ehret has developed her 3-point shot, so defenses cannot leave her alone out there.   <h1 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Little Rock Southwest Lady Gryphons</h1>   2025-26 record: 2-9 (0-1 6A Central)   Notable Wins: Pine Bluff (37-27), Des Arc (34-32)   2024-25 record: 0-25 (0-11 6A Central)   Head Coach: Markita Myers   Biggest Miss: D'ariah Harris   My Projected Finish: #7 in 6A Central (they have clearly improved since last season, so I expect big things from this team in the future)   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Go-To Stars</h2>   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/jordan-bowden/">[player_tooltip player_id='1060886' first='Jordan' last='Bowden']</a>- This Lady Gryphon team is better than they've been in a while, and Bowden has a lot to do with that. Since transferring from NLR, Bowden has been going off, putting up 18 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, and 6 deflections versus Stuttgart. Against Pine Bluff shortly before that, she put up 13 points, 4 assists, and 6 steals in a victory.   Bowden is a tough point guard. She is a rugged defender who strips ball-handlers with ease and is energized each time she locks up the opposing team's best guard. On offense, she is constantly attacking the paint, drawing contact, and getting to the line. She can score consistently in transition, or she can feed her open teammates.   Bowden has received offers from Lyon College, Eureka College, Southwestern College, and Oklahoma Wesleyan.   <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/morgan-crawford/">[player_tooltip player_id='1196043' first='Morgan' last='Crawford']</a>- It's not a great idea to get into the paint against LRSW, because more than likely, you will be meeting Crawford in the post. Since transferring from Parkview, she has been stellar defensively, really showing out against Lonoke, where she pulled down 12 boards and swatted away 3 shots. She was active on the glass again in the outing versus Pine Bluff, grabbing 15 rebounds in addition to her 4 steals, 6 points, and 1 block.   Her offensive game is still coming along, but so far, Crawford is a solid finisher inside. On the other end of the floor, she is meeting opposing ball-handlers in the post and blocking shots effectively--all without fouling.

Conference play across Arkansas is finally here! Let's start in the middle of the state, a conference that consists of North Little Rock, Little Rock Central, Little Rock Southwest, Conway, Bryant, Cabot, and Jonesboro. Without further ado, let's breakdown each one of those squads, in order of where I think they will be at the end of the year standings.