Forward Underclassmen Ready to Shine

The front court is filled with young talent across Arkansas, and several underclassmen are ready to make their mark this season. These players bring different strengths to the floor, from physical scoring and rebounding to versatile offensive games and defensive presence. With many of them stepping into expanded roles, their development could have a major impact on their teams throughout the 2026–27 season. Here's a look at some of the underclassmen forwards and post players to watch across the state.    Heron has the size and physicality to be a matchup problem in the front court. The 6'2” forward is at her best around the basket. She combines a soft touch with the ability to finish through contact. Heron is also comfortable putting the ball on the floor, giving her the ability to create opportunities instead of relying solely on post touches. On the defensive end, she brings the same physical presence. She uses her length to challenge shots and protect the paint. Heron put together a dominant 29-point, 10-rebound, and 3-block performance against Viola. She followed that with 9 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 blocks against Mammoth Spring. If she continues to play with that level of aggression, Heron has the potential to be one of the more difficult front court matchups in the area.     At 6'0”, Boss gives Bentonville West a strong presence on the floor with her combination of size, rebounding, and hustle. Boss is an active rebounder who consistently works to create extra possessions. While also having the ability to push the ball and get the offense moving in transition. Her motor allows her to make an impact even when she isn't scoring. She has also shown she can contribute offensively as well. Boss recorded 14 points and 2 rebounds against Charleston before putting together a 6-point, 5-rebound performance against Fayetteville. With her size and ability to impact the game in multiple areas, Boss is a player to watch for Bentonville West this season.     Facon may be undersized for the forward position, but she has shown that size does not prevent her from being a tough matchup. The 5'6” 2029 forward plays with physicality and has a knack for finishing around the basket despite giving up size. Facon also brings plenty of activity on the defensive end, consistently finding ways to create turnovers and get out in transition. She showed that versatility throughout the season, recording 7 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 steals against Walnut Ridge, followed by 23 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 steals against Bolton. She also added 9 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 steals against Hoxie. Facon's toughness and defensive instincts give her the ability to make an impact in multiple areas despite playing a position where she is often undersized.     Jackson is coming off an All-Conference season and will be an important piece of a young, energetic squad. The 5'10” 2029 forward plays with a physical style, using her strength to attack defenders and compete on the glass. Jackson can also stretch her game beyond the paint, knocking down midrange shots and stepping out to the three-point line when needed. Her rebounding ability has been a consistent part of her game, including 12 rebounds against Clarksville and 13 against Mills. Jackson also showed her scoring ability with 21 points and 8 rebounds against Stuttgart. With her physical approach and ability to contribute both inside and out, Jackson brings a versatile presence to Robinson's young roster.       Patton brings an efficient and well-rounded game to the frontcourt. At 5'10”, Patton combines good decision-making with a strong set of post moves, allowing her to make the most of her opportunities around the basket. Despite her size, she also plays with good speed and can keep up with the pace of the game. Patton's ability to make smart decisions and stay productive around the rim was on display against Prairie Grove, where she finished with 4 points and 9 rebounds, before recording a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds against Mountainburg. Her combination of size, speed, and efficiency makes her an intriguing player to watch at Gravette.

The front court is filled with young talent across Arkansas, and several underclassmen are ready to make their mark this season. These players bring different strengths to the floor, from physical scoring and rebounding to versatile offensive games and defensive presence. With many of them stepping into expanded roles, their development could have a major impact on their teams throughout the 2026–27 season. Here's a look at some of the underclassmen forwards and post players to watch across the state.