GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - A sophomore at Hawthorne Middle/High School is closer to her college dreams. The College Board’s Big Future Scholarship Program delivered a $40,000 check to Melody Watson.

Don Lugo's Larry Webster, Diana Taurasi's high school coach for four years, said it was clear she was destined for a great basketball career.

Hawthorne school officials were forced to absorb a $884,720 reduction in state aid by eliminating the HOPE program and three positions.

Don Lugo's Larry Webster, Diana Taurasi's high school coach for four years, said it was clear she was destined for a great basketball career.