Payton Merkel, Gruver basketball, Fr.
On the court: Merkel has looked like anything but a freshman for a Gruver Lady Hounds team that is 20-5 on the year and a perfect 6-0 so far through District 1-2A. Merkel has been impressive in her first year on varsity, especially during wins against Spearman and Stratford. In both of those lopsided wins, Merkel averaged 21 points, pulled down an average of 5.5 rebounds, dished out 3.5 assists and averaged seven steals.
On the season, Merkel is posting a team-best 17 points a night.
Head coach Trent Lankford: “The team has grown so much. I didn’t know where we would be at this point of the year, because we were so young. We play three freshman and there are sophomores that play a lot of minutes. It has been because it’s been awesome to watch the growth. We have a toughness and grittiness about us, and Payton is one of those players that has been fun to watch grow. Payton has taken a major step from junior high. She had a really good summer and is now playing on a different level. She has taken on a leadership role and she makes everyone around her better. When Payton is on the floor, everyone steps up their game.”
Merkel: “We are playing really well right now, and we’re only getting better as district goes on. We have great team chemistry and that makes a huge difference. To be on varsity as a freshman has been a huge honor. It’s not easy to do. I think I’ve gotten better because of my coaches and my teammates, but now my goal is to continue to get better around the rim and keep working on my jump shots.”
About Merkel
Favorite band or musician: Parker McCollum
Favorite social media platform: TikTok
Favorite athlete: Paige Bueckers
Bet you didn’t know: She loves to eat and sleep.
Parents: Tyler and Valerie Merkel.