In a commendable achievement for the University of North Carolina at Asheville (UNC Asheville), three dedicated baseball players have been honored with Academic All-District® distinctions by College Sports Communicators, as announced on June 3. This recognition highlights not only their athletic prowess but also their commitment to academic excellence, further establishing the tradition of success within the Asheville baseball program.
This marks the third consecutive year UNC Asheville Baseball has celebrated at least one player receiving this prestigious honor, underscoring the program’s ongoing commitment to fostering student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom. The players honored this year—Nic Melton, Owen Michelson, and Daylinh Nguyen-Brown—are all receiving this accolade for the first time in their careers.
To qualify for the Academic All-District® designation, student-athletes must meet rigorous criteria. They must be sophomores or higher, both academically and athletically, hold a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.50, and demonstrate participation in their sport—either by appearing in 90% of contests or starting in 66% of games. For pitchers, eligibility requires a minimum of 17 appearances or pitching at least 25 innings throughout the season.
Spotlight on the Student-Athletes
Nic Melton was a standout performer during his junior season, making 21 appearances and securing two starts within the pitching lineup. Over 22.1 innings, he amassed an impressive total of 31 strikeouts, showcasing his skills on the mound. In an outstanding match against Queens (N.C.) on March 11, Melton tied his career-high by pitching three innings and also recorded a personal-best six strikeouts. As a dedicated student, he maintains a GPA of 3.54 in political science and hails from New London, N.C.
Owen Michelson transitioned from catcher to outfielder this season, demonstrating remarkable versatility within the team. Throughout 40 games, Michelson made 34 starts, achieving 28 hits with an average of .277. His season stats also include six doubles, one triple, and 14 RBIs, supplemented by 11 runs scored and 12 walks. His standout performance on March 29 against Presbyterian saw him achieve a career-high of three hits and steal two bases, contributing significantly as both a player and teammate. Academically, Michelson boasts a 3.68 GPA in chemistry and has also been recognized as a member of Asheville’s 2025 Big South Conference All-Academic Team. Candler, N.C. is his home town.
Daylinh Nguyen-Brown had a notable debut season at Asheville, appearing in 20 games and making four starts as a pitcher. He secured one victory and tied for the Big South Conference lead in saves, with six, which ranks tied for seventh on Asheville’s all-time single-season list. Nguyen-Brown pitched a total of 39 innings, achieving a career-high of five strikeouts against Fairleigh Dickinson on February 14 and another career-high of five innings pitched against USC Upstate on May 17. He demonstrates a strong academic background with a GPA of 3.63 in biology, and he originates from Winterville, N.C.
The Impact of Academic Excellence in Athletics
The recognition of these three baseball players as Academic All-District® honorees exemplifies the growing movement within collegiate athletics to emphasize the importance of academic achievement. College sports, while often focused on the thrill of competition, are increasingly recognizing that student-athletes must perform at a high level in both their sports and academic pursuits. This dual commitment not only prepares these athletes for life after college but also enhances the overall reputation of their respective programs.
Moreover, the Academic All-District® distinction helps to translate values instilled through sports—discipline, focus, and determination—into academic environments. Athletes who achieve this honor showcase their commitment to balancing the demands of intense training and competition with the rigors of academic life.
Programs like that of UNC Asheville are setting a benchmark for what it means to be a student-athlete. The achievements of Melton, Michelson, and Nguyen-Brown serve as an inspiration to fellow teammates and younger athletes, proving that diligence and hard work in both areas can lead to recognition and success.
As the academic and athletic paths of these Bulldogs intersect, they not only uplift themselves but also shine a light on the entire UNC Asheville community. Their accomplishments, celebrated this year, resonate beyond the field and classroom, encouraging future generations to prioritize excellence in all aspects of their college experience.
In conclusion, the University of North Carolina at Asheville, through the achievements of its baseball players, continues to demonstrate a robust commitment to excellence in academics and athletics. The recognition of Nic Melton, Owen Michelson, and Daylinh Nguyen-Brown as Academic All-District® honorees highlights their dedication and sets a strong example for aspiring student-athletes everywhere. As these Bulldogs celebrate their achievements, they also remind us all of the profound impact of hard work, determination, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth and academic integrity.
