From the Court to College

Ten Local Students Score Big with BNP Paribas Scholarships

Big news served up during this year’s BNP Paribas Open!

In a major show of support for Coachella Valley students, BNP Paribas more than doubled its annual scholarship program, awarding TEN $20,000 college scholarships to outstanding high school seniors from the region.

Now in its 11th year, the BNP Paribas Open Scholarship program expanded from four recipients to ten students in 2026, recognizing exceptional young leaders who have demonstrated excellence in academics, athletics, and community involvement, especially through tennis.

Among the winners are La Quinta High School seniors Logan Crabtree, Stephanie Kochel, Ethan Miller, and Perla Lopez Palomares, along with Shadow Hills High School seniors Jose Luis Palacios Morales and Evelyn Rios.

Each LQHS scholarship recipient received a $20,000 college grant during a special ceremony held at La Quinta High School on March 12. A special thank you to BNP Paribas and its leadership for their incredible support of Coachella Valley students, including Peggy Michel, Assistant Tournament Director, Michelle Sprod, Angie Spann, and Erica Sheludenko, BNP Paribas Analyst. La Quinta Mayor Linda Evans and Councilmember Deborah McGarrey joined in the celebration of our students.

A full on-court presentation was held during the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells on Saturday, March 14, for all of the scholarship recipients.

From SHHS Athletic Director Jody Davis: "For Jose Luis and Evelyn who are first-generation college students, this $20,000 scholarship is more than just a check; it’s a shift in the family's entire trajectory. I am excited to follow their path and see what they both achieve in school and more importantly... life."

Congratulations to these outstanding student-athletes for their dedication, leadership, and drive both in the classroom and on the court!