Meet the Newcomers: Gracie Merkle

Gopher Sports: Can you start by telling us a bit about your background and your childhood?
Gracie Merkle: "I'm from Mount Washington, Kentucky and have three siblings. We all grew up playing outside, playing kickball, wiffle ball, and all those sports. I'm actually the only one in my family who plays basketball. My older brother also has three kids, so I have three nephews, which is so much fun."

GS: When did you really start to improve and realize that you had a future in basketball?
GM: "I actually didn't start playing until the sixth grade. My mom kind of threw me into tryouts, and I was crying and did not want to go in, but she made me. Once I got to my freshman year of high school and met the coaches and saw everything they could do for me, that's really when I fell in love with the game."

GS: What made Minnesota stand out to you during your recruiting process in the transfer portal?
GM: "As soon as I got on campus, I felt a connection with my teammates and the belief that the coaching staff had in me. They had a spectacular season last year going to the Sweet 16, and I just wanted to be a part of that. I want to win some games and go far."

GS: What was your first impression when you visited the University of Minnesota?
GM: "It was pretty cool to see. The facilities, like Athletes Village, are incredible. Going up to the fifth floor to have practice instead of just being on the ground is wild to me. We are pretty lucky to have such a nice facility."

GS: How has it been transitioning to a new city?
GM: "I'm still learning my way around and figuring out what grocery store I should go to, but it's been fun. My brother actually came with me to help move me in, so we explored the city a bit and went to a Lynx game. I like to travel, so seeing myself in a new city has been cool."

GS: What has been your favorite part about being at Minnesota so far?
GM: "Definitely getting to know the team. My new teammates have been incredibly welcoming. I'm someone who takes a little bit of time to get comfortable and open up to people, but they've made it so easy. We have a really great core group here."

GS: Has the team given you any nicknames yet?
GM: "They usually just call me Gracie or Merk. Mara actually likes to call me 'Sweetie Pie' because she says I'm from the South."

GS: What are your biggest takeaways from your first few days of practice?
GM: "It's been moving so fast! It's been cool to see where I can make an impact and how the coaches are going to develop me into the player I want to be. Knowing the great people we have around is going to make it special."

GS: For fans who haven't seen you play before, how would you describe your playing style?
GM: "I'm a traditional post player. I play with my back to the basket with a little drop step. I am developing a mid-range jumper, and maybe a transition three if Coach P lets me. On defense I focus on guarding the post
player, being physical, and trying not to let them score."

GS: How excited are you to play in The Barn for the first time as a Gopher?
GM: "I'm expecting a lot of energy. You definitely have to get used to the elevated floor, but it's going to be fun. We're going to be a great group to watch, so it should be electric in there."

Rapid Fire with Gracie Merkle
Hobbies outside of basketball: Fishing, and I love to build LEGOs. I have a big collection of maybe 70 to 80 sets, including the Titanic
Favorite sweet treat: Chocolate chip cookies
What sport would you play if not basketball: Softball
Favorite pro sports team: Minnesota Twins.
Favorite athlete: Candace Parker
Biggest inspiration: My mom
Favorite TV show: The Rookie
Favorite musical artists: Country music, specifically Morgan Wallen
Dream vacation spot: Jamaica
Go-to pre-game snack: Energy gummies, Skittles, or applesauce


Go Gophers!!