Idaho's Jack Payne: Preseason All-Big Sky Guard with Elite Wing Rebounding and Consistent Defensive Intensity
Jack Payne, a 6'6" sophomore guard from Boise, ID, is a **Big Sky Preseason All-Conference** selection for the Idaho Vandals, marking a major leap from his honorable mention status the prior year [4]. While his 2025-26 scoring dipped to **6.6 PPG** compared to his **10.8 PPG** breakout in 2024-25, Payne remains a **differentiator** due to his **elite wing rebounding** (averaging **5.1 RPG** last season and **4.1 RPG** this year), a rare trait for a perimeter player that fuels Idaho's transition game [1][4][5]. He shoots **80.5% from the line** and brings **relentless defensive intensity** and **consistent effort**, starting 32 games last season [4][5]. You should care because Payne offers **size on the perimeter** and **floor-spacing** ability that complements high-usage scorers, making him a **high-fit, low-risk addition** for teams needing a versatile, hard-nosed two-guard who doesn't need the ball in his hands to impact winning [5].
