-- Story provided by Hope College Athletics --
The NCAA has awarded postgraduate scholarships to two recent Hope College graduates and former student-athletes: Claire Baguley from the women's basketball team and Evan Thomas from the men's basketball team.
Baguley and Thomas join an elite group of 35 Hope recipients of NCAA Postgraduate Scholarships.
The NCAA presents up to 126 postgraduate scholarships annually to student-athletes who excel academically and athletically and who are at least in their final year of intercollegiate athletics competition. The one-time, non-renewable scholarships of $10,000 are awarded three times a year corresponding to each sport season (fall, winter and spring).
Baguley (Ada, Michigan / Forest Hills Central HS) begins her studies at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine on July 31.
Thomas (Okemos, Michigan / Okemos) starts his studies at the University of Michigan Medical School on July 24.
A standout guard, Baguley majored in environmental science at Hope, with an emphasis on biology, before graduating in May.
Baguley was a member of Hope's 2022 NCAA Division III national champion women's basketball team and was selected as a 2023 College Sports Communicators Academic All-American.
"I am so honored to be selected for this scholarship that puts an emphasis on academics, athletics, and community service — three things that have truly impacted my time at Hope," Baguley said. "I want to thank my coaches and professors for allowing me to thrive at Hope both on the court and in the classroom. Of course, thank you to my family for supporting me in all of my endeavors."
A standout forward, Thomas majored in biology at Hope before graduating in May.
Thomas was chosen as a 2023 College Sports Communicators Academic All-American and as the 2022 MIAA Most Valuable Player.
"This is truly an honor," Thomas said. "A big shout-out to Dr. Erika Calvo-Ochoa, Dr. Leah Chase, Carol Fritz, and Coach (Greg) Mitchell for their help and support throughout this process — and all four years. Without them, I would not be in the position I'm in today."
