Gracie Merkle announced her commitment to Penn State in April 2024 and instantly made an impact for the Lady Lions.
As the nation’s 2022-23 field goal percentage leader, Merkle not only brought a strong skill set, but a larger-than-life personality that boosted the team’s morale.
“She’s got a great personality, and it’s infectious,” Bullitt East High School women’s basketball coach Chris Stallings said. “(Everyone) loved being around her and loved playing with her.”
While the Mount Washington, Kentucky, native’s journey in Happy Valley was short lived — she entered the transfer portal on Monday — Merkle’s production and impact on Penn State was great.