By Blake Chadwick
Coming off a strong junior season, Eisenhower senior Payton Blue will be one of, if not the Tigers’ key leader and top scorer heading into her final year.
Blue averaged 13.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and shot 85 percent from the free-throw line last season which helped her earn second team all-league and all-state honorable mention.
“Payton is an athletic shooting guard with good size,” head coach Matthew Brumley said. “She shoots the ball at a good percentage for her position and has really turned a corner on the defensive end of the floor. Payton is the definition of a great student-athlete. She is wonderful in the classroom and works equally as hard in whatever sport she is doing.”
Blue’s game is built around her competitiveness and complete offensive skill set.
“My biggest strengths are that I am hardworking and competitive,” Blue said. “I’m also fast and can shoot and handle the ball well.”
As a senior, Blue’s focus isn’t just on individual success but on helping her team reach new heights.
“A goal I have for our team this year is to not only do our best and go far in state, but to create a sense of family with our teammates,” Blue said. “I want to be patient with those who are still learning while also being assertive and getting things done on the court.”
Brumley praised Blue’s character and leadership, noting the example she sets for others.
“Payton genuinely wants others to be successful, she is unique and marches to the beat of her own drum,” Brumley said. “She is encouraging, uplifting, positive, and kind. She is led by her faith and trust in God. Her leadership and willingness to be a servant leader make her a great person for younger players to learn from. You will be hard-pressed to find a better person than Payton Blue.”
