Centenary University standout Nick Payne, a cornerstone of the Cyclones baseball program over the past four years, has officially signed a professional contract with the Utica Unicorns of the United Shore Professional Baseball League (USPBL), becoming the latest Cyclone to take his talents to the next level.

Payne, who reported to training camp on July 20, leaves behind a decorated legacy at Centenary. Known for his gritty play behind the plate, steady bat, and unmatched work ethic, the 2025 graduate's rise from promising freshman to Atlantic East Conference Player of the Year made him a fan favorite and a respected leader at the University.

"Beyond proud of Nick on his opportunity to play in the USPBL," said Centenary head coach Andrew Romanella. "There is no player who's worked harder in their time in a Centenary uniform than Nick. He accomplished so much while a Cyclone, and I am excited for his opportunity to be a professional and take his career to the next level."

Payne burst onto the scene as a freshman, appearing in 30 games with 24 starts, batting .288 with 14 runs and 13 RBIs, including a memorable four-RBI performance and home run in a home win over Neumann. He quickly showed his ability to contribute on both sides of the ball, demonstrating strong defensive instincts and a keen eye at the plate, ranking second on the team with 13 walks.

He followed that up in his sophomore campaign with another solid showing, starting 32 games and batting .263, while driving in 15 runs and throwing out six runners from behind the plate.

It was during his junior season, however, that Payne took his game to new heights. He batted an eye-popping .363, tied for second in single-season doubles with 14, and added 2 home runs, 1 triple, and 22 RBIs. His defense remained elite, leading the conference with 11 runners caught stealing. That dominant performance earned him First Team All-Atlantic East honors and the prestigious title of Atlantic East Player of the Year. The first athlete to do so in program history. 

In his final season with the Cyclones, Payne remained consistent, batting .288 with 40 hits and continuing to be a stabilizing force behind the plate. Most notably, he helped guide Centenary to its first-ever Atlantic East playoff appearance, a milestone achievement for the growing program.

The Utica Unicorns, one of four teams in the USPBL—a developmental league based in Michigan that has sent numerous players to Major League organizations—will benefit from Payne's experience, leadership, and drive as he begins his professional journey.

While his chapter at Centenary has come to a close, Payne's story is far from over. As he dons a new uniform with the Unicorns, his former teammates, coaches, and fans back home will be watching and cheering every step of the way.