Willie Ponce of High Point University has been named a semifinalist for the 2026 Brooks Wallace Award, which recognizes the top shortstop in college baseball. Ponce is among the top 50 shortstops nationwide, with a strong season performance that includes 40 games as a starter. The award, named in honor of Texas Tech's Brooks Wallace, who passed away from leukemia, will be presented by the College Baseball Foundation later this year.

By the Numbers
  • Ponce boasts a .329 batting average with eight doubles, two triples, four home runs, and 27 RBIs.
  • He has a .972 fielding percentage, turning 27 double plays while committing just four errors.
State of Play
  • Ponce has played all 40 games this season, demonstrating consistency in the lineup.
  • He recorded 18 multi-hit games, including a 27-game on-base streak at one point.
What's Next

High Point University will compete against Virginia Military Institute starting April 24, a critical series for Ponce to further showcase his skills in contention for the award.

Bottom Line

Ponce's impressive statistics and consistent performance not only make him a strong candidate for the Brooks Wallace Award but also highlight his critical role in HPU's success this season.