EMPORIA (KSNT) – For Gracie Gilpin, putting on an Emporia State jersey has always meant more.
Long before she burst onto the scene in the college ranks, Gilpin was a kid in the stands at White Auditorium, watching Hornets basketball and imagining what it would be like to wear the black and gold.
“I’ve grown up coming to these games,” Gilpin told 27 Sports. “Putting on this jersey the last three years has meant something. It’s special. This program is something different.”
The Emporia High School graduate began her college career at Cowley Community College before deciding to return home. That decision brought her to Emporia State University — the program she had grown up supporting.
Since coming back, Gilpin has carved out a career that now ranks among the best in school history. She recently surpassed 1,000 career points and currently sits third all-time in three-pointers made for the Hornets.
Still, she is quick to credit those around her.
“This wouldn’t be possible without my teammates getting me the ball and playing for each other,” Gilpin said.
Head coach MJ Baker says Gilpin is a reflection of everything the program stands for.
“Gracie is definitely a program kid. She’s one of one,” Baker explained. “There’s not going to be another Gracie that comes through here. She’s literally a coach’s dream. To be from Emporia, too, you couldn’t ask for a better story.”
Gilpin was a two-time 5A All-State selection for the Spartans in high school. Beyond the milestones, Gilpin says the support from her hometown has meant the most throughout her journey.
“I’ve had the same people support me since high school — even before high school,” Gilpin said. “Them watching me grow as an individual has been crazy. It’s all thanks to Emporia and this great community. This place will always be very special.”
As her senior season continues, Gilpin’s name is now in the record books of the program she once watched from the stands — a full-circle moment for a hometown Hornet.
Gilpin will look for a strong end to her senior season with only a few games left before the MIAA Tournament begins.
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