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Chambersburg's Emily Forrester discusses first year experience, EYBL circuit and preparation for sophomore season; Part II (Chambersburg, PA)

 

OXON HILL, MD -- You might have known Emily Forrester as the raw eighth grader a year ago, but that just isn't the case anymore.

Taking a step forward in her game through personal development, Forrester has began to understand her identity throughout her freshman year. Being more aggressive on both sides of the ball, expanding her game in experimenting throughout training sessions, and getting a sense of providing leadership at an early age, she is beginning to learn different concepts in what makes for a solid recruit. As a freshman, the 6-foot-3 forward averaged 11 points per game and 14 rebounds per game to earn a Mid-Penn All Conference selection and was named to PennLive's 2024 All-Defensive and All-Newcomer teams. 

Forrester's recruitment is projected to gain attraction this summer, but for now, she will continue to lay her focus on summer workouts and touring with Team Durant on the EYBL circuit.

The RPN caught up with the Chambersburg star on her first year experience, EYBL Season 1 and preparation heading into sophomore year.

Emily Forrester Interview
Welcome back to the Factory, Emily. We are officially back after a year. How has everything been?
"My life’s been chill. Freshman season went well, taught me a lot about the game, what I need to work on leading into my next season, and being a good teammate. As Team Durant is starting up things have been busy for sure but it’s been a great last couple weeks." 


Since you came to the RPN Factory, there have been changes within the network. What are some similarities, but changes that you have noticed with the brand?
"I have noticed a lot more high level players entering the network. Along with a lot of the OG kids doing big things across social media. Tyreese (Smith) continues to give back to us high school players, and I'm very grateful for his efforts. He has helped me build a platform!"


How was your first year experience? 
"School was pretty steady. Made a lot of new friends, staying on top of it in the classroom, but have also learned a lot more about people. Basketball wise it has been a roller coaster. I've had so much support and guidance from family and teammates, but overall it has been an adventure for sure."


From watching over the winter, you didn't have the season anybody would want in their first year. Recapping those four months, though, how was freshman season? 
"As a team we didn’t really have great team chemistry with each other. Trying to figure out everyone mid-way through the season did not help. We just really needed to play with more confidence, take more shots, and trust each other which didn’t start to happen until the end of the season. But, I enjoyed playing with everyone. Made a lot of new friends as well. We at least came up with more wins this year than last year, so that was a positive with the season. Finished out the year averaging 11 points per game, while having some individual success."


Now how do you think you handled that situation? 
"It was a little hard at first because I really just wanted to win. But, it made me a better player as I was forced to step up and become a leader. I knew I was going to face everyone’s best defenders every night with the attention. So, when I wouldn’t have the best nights, my teammates stepped up to the plate and helped me out. Per usual there is always media, but I got a lot of articles and recognition from different papers. I ended off the year averaging a double double of 11 points and 14 rebounds a game through 22 games, so I'm very blessed for a first season." 


Time flies fast on the high school circuit, but you’re still at an early stage of your career. What kinds of things are you still doing to make yourself the best player you can be? 
"I am continuing to stay in the gym and train. Along with adding weight by lifting to help improve my game. I have also been doing a lot of stretching and just recovery as well to help me stay ready for the season. Skill wise I have been working on my handle, one-on-one moves and sharpening my post game to make myself more versatile."


Deciding to return to the Team Durant organization this year, you have been locked in to move as one. How has your experience been now officially being on the EYBL circuit?
"Team Durant has been an amazing opportunity for me. The whole coaching staff has taught such high level players, so they know exactly what to do to help me get to where I want to go. Through touring the country, showcases and even the downtime we have, I love it here. We have a lot of fun together and I have learned so much."


Being new to the recruitment game, how has that experience been for you so far? 
"The recruitment process has for sure been an interesting experience. Me and my family are all super new to this whole thing so it’s a new experience for all of us. Through the phone calls, social media and intro to schools I am just discovering, It’s almost rewarding and reminds me to stay on track."


What do you believe are the greatest challenges most players are facing today?
"I think that the transfer portal is the biggest issue today. Lots of colleges are looking for players through the portal with college experience. It can plague a high school player's recruitment from getting looked at, so it's really important to stand out, but let the game come to you."

"Also, I think that social media is one of the bigger issues athletes nowadays have." Forrester said. "There is lots being posted on Overtime, Ballislife and more with all the crazy things athletes are doing. It is easy to compare yourself to them. Either you take it as motivation to get better, or some people take it and not feel good enough. Comparing is the worst thing for any athlete, and social media doesn’t help. While it is a great way of meeting people, a marketing tool and putting yourself out there, it also comes with some downfalls."


Our interests change throughout time, but it’s important for recruits to have an idea about college basketball. Even though you're still early in the process, what do you ideally look for in a school? 
"Some things I look for in a school would for sure be the energy the team and coach’s give off. If I’m going to be spending a lot of time with this certain group of people, I need to be able to bond with them and like all their personalities as well as the coaching style. I also think that everyone wanting the same thing. Playing on a team with some that care and some that don’t, makes it hard to win championships and build a culture."


Having older influences have helped steered you in the right direction. In your own words, how has those connections shaped you as an athlete, but even greater as a person?
"I have so much support from my friends and family. My parents are ALWAYS there for me no matter what, and always lead me in the right direction. Hannah, my sister, is my built in best friend. She is literally my rod and is the person I always go to about anything. On top of a great family, I have some of the best friends in the world that impact my life in all the right ways."


What is your outlook towards the future?
"I’m not quite sure what the future holds right now. There are so many options, and right now I need to see what the right option for me is moving forward. All I can control right now is staying focused with having a huge summer, taking care of priorities, and being the best person I can be with everything in my life." 


Thank you Emily for the return. The Queen of Cburg. Do you have any words of encouragement or motivation for people? Any last words?
"So annoying *laughs*, but stay consistent and work hard for what you want. It will all pay off in the end. Thank you Tyreese for the interview."


Twitter @forrester27_

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Location: Oxon Hill, MD, USA