Imagine a high school basketball sensation who dominated the court with incredible scoring feats, but now she's gearing up for a completely different challenge that could redefine her role on the team—how will she adapt?
Winsted's Emily Arel is stepping into a fresh chapter at Post University, and this time, her focus won't be on dominating the scoreboard. (Post University photo courtesy of Post University Sports Information. Gilbert photo courtesy CIAC)
By RICK WILSON
Special to The Collinsville Press
She embodied pure basketball magic—a whirlwind of unstoppable energy, charging toward the basket with a devastating drop-step move, darting across the court as if dodging an angry wasp sting. Always directing plays and inspiring her teammates, she was the constant leader.
Her shooting range seemed almost otherworldly, launching shots from every conceivable angle that only advanced tracking could follow reliably. Rack up points that would overwhelm any calculator? That's exactly what she did, tallying an astonishing 2,405 points throughout her career. This remarkable total secured her spot as the Berkshire League's all-time leading scorer and placed her fourth on Connecticut's high school girls basketball all-time scoring list.
Emily Arel turned into a statewide sensation and a true legend at Gilbert School, collecting numerous honors while guiding the Yellowjackets to the 2025 Berkshire League championship. But now, with practice at Division II Post University in Waterbury kicking off on Tuesday, October 14, it's time for her to advance to the next level in the basketball universe.
And this is the part most people miss—transitioning to college isn't just about stepping up; it's about stepping back and embracing change.
Advancing in the sport means adapting to new dynamics, and Arel is fully prepared for that. At Gilbert, she was the undeniable star out of both skill and necessity. Starting from her freshman year and continuing through, she orchestrated every move for the Yellowjackets: handling the ball up the court, grabbing rebounds, and piling up points. All eyes were on her because the ball rarely left her hands. She delivered in bunches—think a dazzling variety of scores, often sinking 25 to 40 shots per game, and flipping the momentum faster than a camera shutter clicks.
That dynamic shifts entirely now.
But here's where it gets controversial—can a scoring legend truly thrive without being the go-to offensive force? Some might argue it's a risk to her potential, while others see it as smart growth. What do you think?
"I realize I'm no longer at the top of the hierarchy," Arel shared. "My main goals are to stay injury-free and contribute wherever the team requires. That could mean locking down opponents on defense or setting up my teammates with open shots. Scoring isn't my primary focus like it was in high school."
This marks a significant departure from the unrestricted freedom she enjoyed in high school, yet Arel views it as a positive evolution. For those who witnessed her Berkshire League performances, the adjustment might seem daunting, but it wasn't entirely unfamiliar. During summer AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) tournaments—competitive youth basketball leagues that emphasize team play and skill development over individual stats—she often adopted this more collaborative style as the default.
"I'll finally get to enjoy the basketball I love playing, just like in AAU," Arel explained. "Focusing on passing and defense highlights how the game goes beyond just putting points on the board. I want to show I can hold my own at a high level without relying on scoring as much."
Arel also competed in soccer and softball at Gilbert, but basketball remained her passion. She dedicated her entire summer to intense training, hitting the Gilbert gym for weightlifting sessions 3-5 days a week and adhering to a structured program outlined in a binder from Post University.
And yes, she kept her shooting skills sharp too.
"My daily routine included sinking 500 shots," Arel revealed.
Post University head coach Courtney Burns had multiple conversations with Arel before the season, offering valuable insights.
"We discussed the importance of earning my teammates' confidence right away," Arel recalled. "Players expect the ball to come back if they pass it to you. You need to trust that a turnover won't derail things—good plays will follow—and you don't have to handle everything alone. In college, it's simpler to rely on all five players; even the substitutes are eager and skilled."
After observing Arel's high school games, Burns provided additional guidance.
"She emphasized the need to manage my turnover rate," Arel said. "I sometimes attempt risky 50-50 passes that might work but aren't always the wisest choice. That's been my area of concentration lately."
As this exciting new phase unfolds in her remarkable journey, Arel is already anticipating one unavoidable shift.
"The toughest part will be mental," Arel noted. "Days will stretch longer, the competition will be more intense and physical. I know it's going to feel worlds apart."
Yet, Arel is confident she's equipped for this transformation and excited about the opportunity. She welcomes the test. Gilbert entrusted her with the ball as a freshman and challenged her to push the team as far as possible—and no one can dispute the success that followed.
It's a new dawn, and Arel is eager to embrace her evolving position and the fresh hurdles ahead.
So, what's your take on Emily's transition? Do you believe stepping away from the spotlight is the right move for her career, or could it limit her potential? Share your thoughts in the comments—let's spark a debate!
Rick Wilson is an award-winning writer and columnist with over 44 years of experience covering sports for outlets like the Thomaston Express, Register Citizen in Torrington, Litchfield County Times, the Republican American in Waterbury, and Litchfield County Sports. He is a member of the Tri-State Baseball League Hall of Fame (2012) and Connecticut Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2025). He received a Merit Award from the CIAC for his coverage of high school basketball in 2024.
