Wayln Napper, the leader of the Longwood men's basketball team, has prioritized academics, making the Dean's List for two semesters and embracing the role of a student-athlete after struggling with academic commitment earlier in his life. His journey from prioritizing basketball over studying in high school to becoming a dedicated student-athlete at Longwood reflects his growth and development both on and off the court. Napper, a sociology major, is set to graduate soon, with his mother being his pillar of support and motivation. His upcoming graduation holds great significance, not only as a personal achievement but also as a source of inspiration for his family and future generations.

The Big Picture

Napper's transformation from an athlete-student to a dedicated student-athlete exemplifies the importance of prioritizing academics alongside athletic pursuits, setting a powerful example for the integration of sports and education.

By the Numbers
  • Napper made the Dean's List for two semesters.
  • He is in the second semester of his senior year, close to graduation.
State of Play
  • Napper is leading the Longwood men's basketball team while excelling academically.
  • He is set to graduate soon and aims to inspire future generations with his academic accomplishments.
Bottom Line

Wayln Napper's journey from struggling academically to excelling as a dedicated student-athlete serves as a powerful reminder of the value of education alongside athletic pursuits, inspiring both his team and future generations.