Meet the Newcomers: Gracie Merkle

Gracie Merkle’s basketball journey at Minnesota is just getting started. In this newcomer spotlight, the Kentucky native and new Gopher transfer opens up about exploring the Twin Cities, her traditional back-to-the-basket playing style, and why teammate Mara Braun calls her “Sweetie Pie. 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…