Northwestern's Grace Sullivan Shines Ahead of WNBA Draft

The Antioch native has emerged as a top scorer for the Wildcats this season.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Grace Sullivan, a transfer student from Carmel Catholic, has had a breakout season for the Northwestern women's basketball team, averaging a team-high 22 points per game and tying for 11th in the country. Her coach describes her as a "quiet leader," and her strong performance has drawn interest from WNBA scouts, something Sullivan never thought possible until now.

Why it matters

Sullivan's success highlights the growth and development of a local Illinois basketball talent, showcasing the pipeline of talent from the high school to college and potentially professional levels. Her story also underscores the importance of supportive environments and mentorship in helping student-athletes reach their full potential.

The details

After transferring to Northwestern last season, Sullivan has flourished, leading the Wildcats in scoring this year. She previously captained Carmel Catholic to their first-ever state title in 2022, demonstrating her hard work and determination. Sullivan's coach has praised her as a "quiet leader," and her standout performance has drawn the attention of WNBA scouts, something she never imagined would happen.

  • Grace Sullivan transferred to Northwestern University last season.
  • In 2022, Sullivan captained Carmel Catholic to their first-ever state title.

The players

Grace Sullivan

A transfer student from Carmel Catholic who is now a standout player for the Northwestern women's basketball team, averaging a team-high 22 points per game and tying for 11th in the country.

Carmel Catholic

The high school that Grace Sullivan previously played for, where she captained the team to their first-ever state title in 2022.

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What they’re saying

“I thought it would be amazing. The family aspect helps a lot.”

— Grace Sullivan (abc7chicago.com)

“She's a quiet leader.”

— Grace Sullivan's coach (abc7chicago.com)

What’s next

Grace Sullivan's strong performance this season has drawn interest from WNBA scouts, and she is now focused on the upcoming WNBA Draft as her next goal.

The takeaway

Grace Sullivan's story showcases the growth and development of a local Illinois basketball talent, highlighting the importance of supportive environments and mentorship in helping student-athletes reach their full potential. Her success underscores the pipeline of talent from the high school to college and potentially professional levels.