CHAGRIN FALLS- 2015 Chagrin Falls alumni Hallie Thome has eyed the WNBA draft since seventh grade and now can follow her dream.
Thome played a vital part of the Chagrin program and now plays for The University of Michigan as a post player. She has had many successes during her time at both Chagrin and The University of Michigan.

“The [draft will occur] April of 2019. [The] early mock draft has me at second round pick 22,” Thome said.

 As of now Thome believes she will be picked by the Washington Mystics. However, more mock drafts will be published later in the year.

“I have never really thought I would be playing basketball in college let alone professionally. As I reflect on this year, it has made me realize that I am going beyond anything I thought I could ever imagine, let alone do.”

Thome explained how basketball has changed her life and is optimistic about this new chapter opening up in her life.

Thome said CFHS head girls basketball coach Brittany Anderson has also been an important part of her success.

“Having her as a coach but then a mentor as well, her and I have a really good relationship and still talk to this day. The support has carried on even though I still go to that school up north,” she said.  

Coach Anderson and Thome have similar perspectives on each other “Hallie and Hannah are excellent role models… [They] both come back to camp; people go up to their games at Michigan and OU. It is really important to have a positive role model who encourages girls to play sports.”

Thome considers her experience at CFHS to be one of the best parts of her life. More specifically, she said her favorite memory was playing her last game with her twin sister.  

“[My favorite part was] probably the last game with Hannah. As a team we had never been closer… It was a memory I’ll never forget. The opportunity to play with Hannah will never be taken away.”

One of Thome’s favorite teachers, Mr. Serluco, was the junior varsity coach during her time at CFHS. Mr. Serluco coached with Coach Anderson and Coach Joe Monroe during his time with the girls basketball program. Serluco recalls her work ethic and confidence she had in herself.

“I think that a big part of it was her confidence. Coach Anderson put her in positions where she could be successful, and as she experienced that success, she gained confidence,” said Serluco. Thome evidently blossomed over the four years. Thome’s growth as a basketball player and person was obvious to her coaches.

As Thome gets ready to head to the draft next April, her coaches and current basketball players want Thome to enjoy the ride and never forget how special she is as a player.

Many people from Chagrin are excited for Hallie’s success. Senior, Lydia Thombs knows how important Hallie’s influence has been on her and the Chagrin Falls Girls Basketball Program.

“She was a big role model and I looked up to her to be the best I can be,” Thombs said. “She makes me be a better player now in high school. It is really cool to know someone that is playing basketball and is that good.”

As Thome gets ready to head to the draft next April, her coaches and current basketball players want Thome to enjoy the ride and never forget how special she is as a player.

“I would just say that I am so proud of you, enjoy it, keep that passion that you have for the game,” Serluco said.