As the spring sports calendar winds down, a few ULM athletes have done more than just compete—they have delivered when it mattered most. From clutch hits to record-breaking races, these three players helped shape the semester with performances worth remembering.
Isaiah Walker — Baseball, Outfielder
Senior outfielder Isaiah Walker led ULM with 37 runs scored, five home runs and 24 stolen bases while starting all 48 games this season. His best moment came against Northwestern State on April 8, when he launched two home runs, including a 392-foot blast that pulled ULM back into the game.
Even when ULM’s offense struggled, Walker stayed consistent. He finished with a .337 batting average and was a steady glove in the outfield, rarely missing a step. His ability to turn games around with one swing made him a threat every time he stepped into the box.
Layla Thompson — Softball, Shortstop
Senior infielder Layla Thompson did not have the flashiest numbers on paper, but her impact showed up when ULM needed it. Thompson had 15 RBIs this season, locking down the middle infield. In a road series against Southern Miss, she went 5-for-9 with four RBIs and a stolen base, helping the Warhawks take two out of three.
Thompson brought leadership to a young roster and stayed composed under pressure. From turning a tough double play to dropping a bunt to move the runner, Thompson helped ULM win games.
Juwan Blignaut — Track & Field, Distance Runner
Graduate Juwan Blignaut spent the spring chasing personal bests and setting them. Blignaut broke a ULM school record in the 1500 meters with a 3:43.00 at the Wake Forest Invitational, then followed it up with a first-place finish at the LSU Alumni Gold meet.
Blignaut’s consistency and range across events helped ULM rack up points in conference meets. His work ethic off the track showed up in every race, and his quiet focus has made him a cornerstone of ULM’s distance program.
These three athletes did not just have good numbers—they led by example. In different ways and different sports, they showed what it means to be ready, reliable and relentless.
