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<p>This group has the balance of experience and upside that can earn them potential coveted postseason rewards. These 5 prospects were chosen based on the likelihood of season and postseason team success due to player impact and the probability of postseason accolades (All-State, All-Conference, All-Tournament). Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR & @VortexSportsArkansas. </p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Hardwell's upbeat scoring punch at the guard spot makes him an engine for Benton. His ability to control tempo and score when needed gives the Panthers an additional floor general. Given his role, Hardwell projects as a strong All-Conference candidate with the upside for higher recognition if he strings together multiple strong performances.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Easter brings combo-guard versatility to Lake Hamilton, capable of running the offense or sliding off the ball as a scorer. His quickness and maturity on the court make him a tough cover in the 5A South. Easter's production and adaptability put him firmly in the mix for postseason accolades, especially All-Conference honors.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Russell is a confident combo guard who thrives creating problems on defense and touches in volume. His ability to generate offense both for himself and others makes him a critical piece for Benton. As Benton looks to push for repeated postseason success, Russell's impact positions him as a likely All-Conference selection with the potential to earn All-State recognition if he delivers in tough games.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Johnson's size and versatility enable him to play multiple frontcourt roles, providing Hot Springs with a physical presence who can rebound, defend, and finish around the rim. His youth makes his upside even more intriguing. If Johnson continues to develop and impact winning, he could emerge as one of the breakout underclassmen in the 5A South and earn postseason honors earlier than expected.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Adams is a wing with the tools to score at all three levels. His length and athleticism make him a two-way threat, capable of guarding multiple positions while also being a solid option offensively. With Pine Bluff's tradition of postseason success, Adams' role as a versatile scorer and defender gives him a strong chance to collect All-Conference recognition and potentially All-Tournament buzz if the Zebras make a deep run.</p>
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This group has the balance of experience and upside that can earn them potential coveted postseason rewards. These 5 prospects were chosen based on the likelihood of season and postseason team success due to player impact and the probability of postseason accolades (All-State, All-Conference, All-Tournament). Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR & @VortexSportsArkansas.
HEIGHT
6'0"
POS
PG
CLASS
2026
State:
Arkansas
School:
Hot Springs
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HEIGHT
6'0"
POS
PG/SG
CLASS
2026
State:
Arkansas
School:
Lake Hamilton
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HEIGHT
6'0"
POS
CG
CLASS
2026
State:
Arkansas
School:
Benton
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HEIGHT
6'4"
POS
SF/PF
CLASS
2028
State:
Arkansas
School:
Hot Springs
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HEIGHT
6'4"
POS
SG/SF
CLASS
2027
State:
Arkansas
School:
Pine Bluff
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