For Weatherford senior Talyn Payne, basketball is more than a game — it’s a classroom for leadership, teamwork, and joy. Heading into her final season, Payne has her focus set on what truly matters. “My personal goals this season are to be a great teammate and leader,” she said. “When you have negativity on a team, even if it’s one player, it brings the whole team down. I am no better than the other players on the team.”
That selfless mindset has helped define the Lady Eagles’ chemistry this year. “It’s fun,” Payne said. “We enjoy each other, which makes for a good time.” The energy in practice and off the court has translated into a tighter, more connected squad. “The bond we share has been the biggest improvement I’ve seen from the team so far,” she added. “We do things outside of practice as a team, which makes us closer.”
And with that closeness comes competitive fire. “We want to win,” Payne said simply. “Going 100% at all times in practice prepares us for games.” For Weatherford, communication has also become a cornerstone of their success. “Our communication is our biggest strength right now,” Payne said. “We know what each other is thinking at all times on the court.”
As a 5’6 guard, Payne thrives on both ends of the floor — especially on defense. “I watch their eyes,” she explained. “I enjoy defense a lot. Getting steals brings me joy.” Even her pregame rituals reflect her calm consistency. “I always have a stick of gum,” she said with a laugh. “It’s something I do before every game.”
Her mindset during competition stays simple and grounded. “I try not to do a lot of thinking,” Payne admitted. “I overthink every situation in life, so I focus more on the warmups.”
One of her proudest moments came in front of a home crowd. “Making the game-winning shot at the Weatherford tournament to take us to the championship game,” Payne said, recalling her favorite memory in a Weatherford uniform.
Beyond basketball, Payne is heavily involved — a member of STUCO, FCA, Leadership Lab, BancFirst Board, and Unified Partner, while also competing in cross country and track. After graduation, she plans to attend SWOSU and go through their PTA program.
And if her leadership, drive, and heart are any indication — her impact at Weatherford will last far beyond her final season.
