
Gracie Merkle is Penn State’s paint-anchor with elite efficiency and double-double juice
In the 2025-26 season, Gracie Merkle was Penn State’s go-to interior scorer and rebounder, leading the Lady Lions with 15.5 points and 8.6 rebounds per game while posting 15 double-doubles in 28 games. Her calling card is old-school center dominance: huge touch around the rim, strong finishing efficiency, and consistent board work, plus she drew enough attention to rank among Penn State’s all-time double-double leaders. At 6'6", she gives a team size, physicality, and a reliable low-post presence that can tilt matchups.





