Payton Sandfort Iowa SF: Rising Star Poised for Breakout 2025-26 Season
Payton Sandfort established himself as one of the Big Ten’s most reliable perimeter threats during his time with the Iowa Hawkeyes. The forward from Waukee, Iowa brought size and shooting touch to the court that caught scouts’ attention. Over four seasons with the Hawkeyes, Sandfort showcased his scoring ability. His development culminated in performances that demonstrated he could be more than just a spot-up shooter at the next level.
The sharpshooter’s career reached new heights in his final seasons, where he evolved from a role player to a featured scorer. His smooth shooting mechanics and high release point made him difficult to defend, particularly when coming off screens. NBA scouts have noted his catch-and-shoot proficiency, though questions remain about his defensive versatility and ability to create his own shot against elite athletes.
With the 2025 NBA Draft approaching, Sandfort currently projects as a potential second-round selection who could provide immediate floor spacing for teams needing shooting. His basketball IQ and size for the position offer an intriguing package for teams looking for rotation players who understand their role and can contribute within structured offensive systems.
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Early Life and High School Career
Payton Sandfort was born on July 12, 2002, and grew up in Waukee, Iowa. His basketball journey began early, as he developed into one of Iowa’s premier high school talents.
At Waukee Senior High School, Sandfort established himself as an elite shooter and all-around player. His dedication to improvement was evident even then—his morning routine included early shooting sessions that set a positive tone for his day.
Sandfort’s high school achievements were remarkable. He earned the prestigious Iowa Basketball Coaches Association 4A Player of the Year award as a senior and received a McDonald’s All-American nomination in 2021.
The 6-foot-7, 200-pound small forward caught the attention of college recruiters with his shooting touch and basketball IQ. His performance at Waukee didn’t just earn accolades—it translated to real success on the court.
Sandfort’s recruitment concluded when he enrolled at the University of Iowa on June 3, 2021, choosing to stay in his home state to continue his basketball career with the Hawkeyes.
His high school career showcased not just talent but a relentless work ethic that would serve him well at the collegiate level.
College Recruitment Process
Payton Sandfort’s journey to Iowa basketball began as a standout performer at Waukee Senior High School in Iowa. The 6’7″ small forward emerged as a 3-star recruit in the 2021 class.
The Hawkeyes identified Sandfort early as a priority target, appreciating his shooting touch and basketball IQ. His commitment on October 1, 2020, represented a significant in-state recruiting win for Fran McCaffery’s program.
Sandfort became the first commitment in Iowa’s 2021 recruiting class. The timing proved excellent for the Hawkeyes, who were preparing to lose several seniors including standout Luka Garza.
What made Sandfort appealing to Big Ten programs was his combination of size and shooting ability. Iowa’s offense, known for its spacing and three-point shooting, seemed tailor-made for his skill set.
The recruiting process also foreshadowed a family connection that would develop later. Payton would eventually help recruit his younger brother Pryce to join the Hawkeyes. Pryce, a 6’7″ small forward in the 2023 class, followed his brother’s path.
Sandfort’s High School Profile:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| High School | Waukee Senior High School |
| Position | Small Forward |
| Height | 6’7″ |
| Class | 2021 |
| Star Rating | 3-star |
| State Rank | Top 5 in Iowa |
The NCAA recruiting calendar worked in Iowa’s favor, as they secured his commitment before other Big Ten programs could make stronger pushes.
Payton Sandfort at University of Iowa
Payton Sandfort established himself as a key contributor for the Iowa Hawkeyes basketball program during his collegiate career. His development from a freshman role player to one of the team’s prominent scorers showcased his growth within the Big Ten conference.
Freshman Year Highlights
Sandfort arrived at Iowa in 2021 as a highly-regarded recruit, earning McDonald’s All-American nomination during his senior year of high school. The 6-foot-7 small forward from Waukee, Iowa quickly found his role as a three-point specialist for the Hawkeyes.
In limited minutes, Sandfort displayed the shooting touch that would become his trademark. His ability to stretch the floor provided valuable spacing for Iowa’s offense, though his defensive contributions remained a work in progress.
Coach Fran McCaffery utilized Sandfort primarily in spot situations, allowing him to gain experience while not overwhelming the freshman with too many responsibilities. This measured approach helped build his confidence without exposing his early limitations.
Sophomore Season Progression
Sandfort’s second year with the Hawkeyes showed marked improvement in both playing time and production. His shooting percentages climbed as he became more comfortable with the pace and physicality of Big Ten basketball.
The sophomore forward developed better shot selection and expanded his offensive arsenal beyond just perimeter shooting. His improved ball-handling allowed him to attack closeouts more effectively, making him less one-dimensional.
Defensively, Sandfort made strides by committing to Coach McCaffery’s system and using his length more effectively. His basketball IQ became more apparent as he positioned himself better within team defensive schemes.
Game Statistics and Performance Analysis
Sandfort’s statistical progression reflected his growing comfort level in Iowa’s system. His three-point shooting accuracy became particularly noteworthy, as he established himself as one of the conference’s premier outside threats.
| Season | PPG | RPG | APG | 3PT% | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freshman | 5.0 | 1.9 | 0.7 | 36.6% | 40.1% |
| Sophomore | 10.3 | 4.1 | 1.4 | 42.3% | 44.7% |
His performance against ranked opponents demonstrated improved consistency, particularly in high-pressure situations. Sandfort’s ability to create his own shot made him valuable in late-game scenarios, though his defensive assignments sometimes limited his minutes in certain matchups.
NBA scouts took notice of his shooting prowess, with most draft analysts viewing him as a potential second-round selection if he continues his developmental trajectory. His three-point shooting is viewed as NBA-ready, though questions about defensive versatility remain.
Big Ten Conference Impact
Payton Sandfort has emerged as a significant force in the Big Ten, earning honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition from both coaches and media. His shooting prowess and leadership have made him a standout performer in one of college basketball’s most competitive conferences.
Conference Rivalries
The Big Ten landscape has felt Sandfort’s presence, particularly in heated matchups against traditional rivals. His performance against Nebraska proved especially notable when he dropped 22 points in a crucial victory that secured Iowa’s spot in the Big Ten tournament.
The Sandfort family drama added intrigue to the conference dynamics when Payton’s brother Pryce transferred to Nebraska, creating a new sibling rivalry within the Big Ten. Before this move, the brothers were a potent combination for the Hawkeyes, with Pryce hitting four critical three-pointers in their win over Nebraska.
Michigan State, Illinois, and Purdue matchups consistently brought out Sandfort’s competitive edge, with his three-point shooting often serving as Iowa’s equalizer against higher-ranked opponents.
Team Contributions
Sandfort’s statistical impact on Iowa basketball has been substantial, particularly in conference play:
| Category | Conference Average | Rank in Big Ten |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 16.8 per game | 7th |
| 3PT % | 38.5% | 5th |
| Free Throw % | 87.2% | 3rd |
| Minutes | 33.4 per game | 8th |
His shooting touch from beyond the arc made him one of the conference’s most feared perimeter threats. Defenses regularly designed special coverages specifically for Sandfort, which created opportunities for his teammates.
NBA scouts have taken notice of his shooting ability, placing him in the late second-round discussion for the upcoming draft. His 6’7″ frame and elite shooting touch project well to the professional level, though improving his lateral quickness remains essential.
Iowa’s offensive efficiency ranked 4th in the Big Ten, largely due to Sandfort’s floor-spacing abilities and basketball IQ.
NCAA Tournament Participation
Payton Sandfort has established himself as a key contributor for Iowa during NCAA Tournament play. His shooting ability and clutch performances have been instrumental in the Hawkeyes’ postseason appearances.
Impactful Moments
Sandfort’s three-point shooting prowess became a defining feature of Iowa’s tournament runs. In the 2024 NCAA Tournament, he hit crucial shots in Iowa’s first-round victory, going 4-for-6 from beyond the arc when the team needed it most.
His most memorable moment came against Auburn in the Round of 32, where he scored 11 points in a critical second-half stretch. The performance showcased his ability to deliver under pressure.
Sandfort’s tournament shooting percentages reflect his value:
| Tournament Year | PPG | 3PT% | RPG | Clutch Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 8.5 | 38.2% | 4.2 | 6 |
| 2024 | 17.2 | 43.5% | 6.8 | 14 |
His growth between appearances demonstrated his development as both a scorer and team leader. Scouts took notice of his tournament composure, raising his NBA draft stock to mid-second round consideration.
Team Dynamics and Playoffs
Sandfort evolved from role player to centerpiece within Iowa’s tournament rotations. His ability to stretch defenses opened driving lanes for his teammates. It also created offensive spacing crucial to Iowa’s game plan.
Coach Fran McCaffery increasingly ran late-game sets with Sandfort as the primary option. This trust paid dividends in tight contests against higher-seeded opponents.
His Big Ten tournament performance in 2025 carried directly into NCAA play. During Final Four weekend, he competed in the State Farm 3-Point Championships.
Defensive adjustments from opponents often focused on limiting his shooting opportunities. This attention created opportunities for Iowa’s interior players and secondary scorers.
Sandfort’s communication on defense improved dramatically during tournament play. He became the vocal leader on defensive rotations, helping teammates adjust to the heightened intensity of March basketball.
Player Development and Skills
Payton Sandfort has transformed from a promising recruit into one of the Big Ten’s most lethal offensive threats. His development curve at Iowa highlights a focused approach to becoming a complete player while maintaining his signature shooting stroke.
Offensive Strategies
Sandfort’s most NBA-ready skill is undoubtedly his shooting. The 6’7″ forward has developed into an elite perimeter threat with mechanics that translate perfectly to the next level.
His shooting percentages tell the story of consistent development:
| Season | FG% | 3PT% | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freshman | 41.3% | 36.6% | 5.0 |
| Sophomore | 43.2% | 37.9% | 10.3 |
| Junior | 47.5% | 42.1% | 16.4 |
Beyond shooting, Sandfort has expanded his offensive toolbox to include crafty off-ball movement and improved playmaking. His basketball IQ manifests in timely cuts and an uncanny ability to find open space against packed defenses.
What separates him from one-dimensional shooters is his developing ability to create his own shot off the dribble. This growth has made him much more than just a catch-and-shoot specialist.
Defensive Tactics
Defensively, Sandfort has worked to overcome physical limitations with positioning and anticipation. He’s not an elite athlete by NBA standards, but his length and understanding of defensive principles make him serviceable on this end.
His development has focused on three key areas:
- Team defense concepts – Understanding rotations and help positioning
- Closeout technique – Using length to contest without fouling
- Rebounding – Averaging 7.7 rebounds as a high school senior and continuing to improve at Iowa
Iowa’s coaching staff has helped him understand how to leverage his basketball intelligence defensively. While never likely to be a lockdown defender, he’s learned to minimize disadvantages and contribute within team concepts.
His lateral quickness remains a work in progress, but his commitment to defensive fundamentals has turned what was once a significant weakness into a more neutral aspect of his game.
Physical Conditioning
Sandfort’s physical transformation has been central to his development. Adding functional strength without sacrificing mobility has been a priority in Iowa’s strength program.
He’s focused on core stability and lower body power, helping him withstand physical play on drives while improving his defensive stance. This conditioning work has paid dividends in his senior year endurance.
Durability has become one of his underrated assets. Sandfort has proven capable of maintaining productivity while carrying a heavy minutes load as Iowa’s primary offensive option.
His commitment to conditioning exemplifies his overall approach to development and leadership. Sandfort understands that his NBA future depends on maximizing every physical tool at his disposal, not just his natural shooting touch.
Sportsmanship and Leadership
Payton Sandfort’s impact on Iowa Basketball extends far beyond his shooting ability. His character and leadership have become defining traits that elevate both his team and personal standing in collegiate basketball.
Team Collaboration
Sandfort has emerged as one of the Big Ten’s most respected teammates. His communication skills on the court have been exceptional, particularly during Iowa’s tournament runs. Players consistently cite his positive reinforcement during challenging stretches of games.
When the Hawkeyes faced Illinois in the Big Ten Tournament, despite the 106-94 loss, Sandfort’s leadership remained evident. Even opposing coaches took notice.
“That young man had just an unbelievable career,” noted Illinois’ coaching staff after the game, acknowledging Sandfort’s impact despite the defeat.
His collaborative approach translated to tangible results. In 2025, Sandfort was named Big Ten Co-Player of the Week. This honor reflects both his statistical contributions and his ability to elevate teammates’ performances.
Role Model Attributes
Sandfort’s emotional intelligence sets him apart from many draft prospects. After his final game at Iowa, his post-game interview revealed a player deeply connected to his program and teammates.
NBA scouts have noted his maturity as a significant asset. At 6-foot-7 and 200 pounds, the small forward from Waukee, IA brings physical tools, but his intangibles may prove equally valuable.
Sandfort’s selection to participate in the State Farm 3-point Championships speaks to his technical excellence, but his comportment during these high-pressure showcases demonstrated his poise.
Draft analysts currently project Sandfort as a mid-second round selection, with his leadership qualities potentially raising his stock. Teams with established veterans seeking high-character role players have shown particular interest.