Some friendships are built over time. Others form in an instant and grow stronger with every shared moment. That’s exactly how it’s been for Evan and Graham. When Evan joined the Dallas Baptist University basketball team in August 2024, he became part of a family. And at the heart of that connection has been Graham Kroll.
Graham is the team leader. With an unmatched sense of purpose, kindness, and quiet strength, Graham has earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike. He leads not only with heart but with humility—both on and off the court.
But it’s his role in Evan’s life that tells the full story of who Graham truly is.
From the moment Evan and his family joined the Patriots, Graham made it personal. He reached out, built a genuine connection with Evan, and made sure Evan always felt included. Whether he was writing Evan a heartfelt card before his heart procedure, cheering him on during recovery, or welcoming Evan’s entire family into team traditions, Graham always went above and beyond.
One of the most unforgettable moments came after the team won the Lone Star Conference Tournament Championship. As the team celebrated by cutting down the net, Graham—celebrating his final season—chose not to make the moment about himself. Instead, he invited Evan to join him and cut down a piece of the net together. That moment symbolized exactly what this journey has been about: inclusion, celebration, and shared joy.
Graham is not only a standout teammate and a leader with integrity but also a source of strength for Evan and his entire family. “Graham represents the heart of what Team IMPACT is all about,” Evan’s family shared. “We’ve celebrated and cheered for him, and he’s welcomed us with open arms. That bond means the world to us.”
As Evan continues to grow in confidence and strength, Graham continues to be there, reminding him he belongs, he matters, and he’s part of something bigger.
For everything he’s done—on the court, in the classroom, and in Evan’s life—it’s no surprise that Evan’s family nominated Graham for Team IMPACT’s Teammate of the Year.
