Bethlehem Catholic basketball player Hope Brown has committed to Holy Cross where she will continue her academic and athletic career after graduating from Becahi in 2018.

“I had that moment when I was there, that this is where I’m meant to be, and my mom did too,” said Brown. “It still doesn’t feel real.”

Brown also considered Wagner College and West Point, and the latter seemed like a very good option for Brown until she visited Holy Cross.

On Brown’s recent visit, Crusader freshman Madalyn Smith told Brown more about the basketball program and the atmosphere.

“She got the same feeling I did, and she told me how close she is with all the girls,” Brown said. “She loves everything they do there. They have a workout program, and they’re like sisters there, and I wanted to make sure I clicked with the other girls.”

This past season, the Crusaders, who are coached by Bill Gibbons, had an overall record of 8-22. They were 6-12 in the Patriot League, losing by only four points against Lafayette in the opening round of the Patriot League Tournament.

“He is very, very nice. He has a lot of experience, and he really has a nice family atmosphere. It feels like all the girls are his kids,” said Brown.

When Brown notified Gibbons of her commitment, his first words were welcome to the family.

“I really liked that,” Brown said.

Brown is planning to major in photography.