Payton Futch Payton Futch 5'9" | CG/PG Hot Springs Lakeside | 2026 State AR has already accomplished a lot in her high school career, and now she holds down her spot in the top 5.

Futch already holds multiple college offers, has eclipsed 2,000 career points, and earned all-conference, state, and tournament selections after this past season.

Futch is one of the best shot creators in the state, mixing up defenders with her handles and pulling up for jumpers. She can also get by the first line of defense with her quick first step, finding her way to the basket.

Payton Futch Payton Futch 5'9" | CG/PG Hot Springs Lakeside | 2026 State AR is clearly one of the best scorers in the state, and believe or not, I believe she can be better in her senior season.

Payton Futch Payton Futch 5'9" | CG/PG Hot Springs Lakeside | 2026 State AR has had a solid streak of games over the past week, especially her performances in Tuesday’s win over Arkadelphia, and Thursday’s loss to DeQueen.

Futch showed off her all-around supremacy in Lakeside’s game versus Arkadelphia, posting 25 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 steals. She was a pest on the defensive end, reading passes perfectly in order to intercept them, and taking advantage of sloppy ball-handling. Several of her points came from capitalizing off of turnovers. She was scoring well on the interior, finishing off her looks on the fastbreak.

In the loss versus DeQueen, Futch put up 16 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal. In this game, the junior guard showcased her offensive versatility. She knocked down some jumpshots, showing off her ability to hit from three, as well as driving hard to the basket. Futch also can play closer to a power forward, as she boxes out well and scores a number of second-chance points.

Payton Futch Payton Futch 5'9" | CG/PG Hot Springs Lakeside | 2026 State AR is one of the top players in the state for a reason, and her versatility is a major reason as to why.

This Junior means business and aims to make this season one to remember. The 5’9 point guard for Lakeside has an excellent to start to that averaging 24pts a game so far. A score at will threat on offense with height and length to suit. Payton impressed me with her ability to stride to the basket and score in traffic. In transition she is basically unstoppable going left or right when she desires. She showed flashes of good defense and would be the only development. She has a good floater and is very shifty for her size. This student athlete is a floor leader that can pass behind the back in transition. Remember the name Payton Futch Payton Futch 5'9" | CG/PG Hot Springs Lakeside | 2026 State AR in 24-25!