Mbugua just opened back up her recruitment after being committed to Liberty University since she was in 8th grade. I think a lot of people’s eyes were opened at the KHSAA Sweet 16 when Grace put on an absolute show at Rupp Arena. I had multiple D1 coaches reach out to me about Mbugua, so I can only imagine the interest she was personally receiving. It’s hard for any college to not want a 6’4 versatile player who proved she can score inside and out in a variety of ways against one of the top defensive teams in Kentucky, if not the best. Not to mention, an opposing team who has a starting lineup made up of five D1 & D2 players. Mbugua’s team ultimately lost 65-63, but Mbugua finished the game with 34 points, 14 rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 assists, and 2 steals on 66.7% shooting overall (12/18) and 75% from the 3-point line (3/4). I believe she will pile up D1 offers this offseason now that her recruitment is open.

Grace Mbugua Grace Mbugua 6'4" | PF Danville Christian | 2025 State KY looked as good as advertised in Danville Christian’s first ever appearance in the Sweet 16. Mbugua has elite skills for a 6’4 player, she ran the floor extremely well in transition, did a good job making herself available for the entry pass down low, rebounded with authority, and showed off some impressive outside shooting ability. She was unstoppable offensively and scored almost every time she touched the ball. Her individual effort on both ends of the floor almost pushed her team past the first round but Cooper was able to hang on to get the victory. Mbugua finished with 34 points, 14 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 blocks, and 2 steals. (Featured Image)

Mbugua might be the biggest hidden gem in the nation. Playing for a small school like Danville Christian and not playing AAU means a lot of people across the state have not gotten to see her play. She also does not have a social media presence, so it’s hard to determine if her size is why her numbers look so good on paper or if she really is that good. Well after seeing her in person, she is even better than you would expect. I honestly think this would be a nationally ranked player if people outside of her area got to watch her play. She has excellent length and size, but can truly play any position on the floor. Mbugua was single-handedly keeping her team in the game and showed how special of a talent she is as she contributed in every way possible for her team. She finished the game with 34 points, 14 rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 assists, and 2 steals.

You can’t teach size and Mbugua is legitimately 6’4″ and may not be done growing. She is still relatively new to basketball but has already averaged a double-double as a sophomore. With her elite size and improving skill set, she could be a top 100 player in America down the line.

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• Contributed by Steve Quattrocchi
• Local stories: 2024s, 2025s, 2026s

Grace gets better and better as she continues to learn and improve her overall skill level. Mbugua is an elite shot blocker thanks to her size and continues to improve her offensive game and become more well rounded.