Get ready to witness a basketball powerhouse redefine her game! Emily Arel, the Berkshire League’s all-time leading scorer, is stepping into a brand-new role at Post University—and it’s not what you’d expect. Gone are the days of being the undisputed scoring machine; now, she’s embracing a team-first mindset that’s as refreshing as it is surprising. But here’s where it gets intriguing: can a player who once dominated the court single-handedly thrive in a supporting role? Let’s dive in.
Emily Arel, the Winsted native and Gilbert School legend, is no stranger to the spotlight. With a staggering 2,405 career points—enough to secure her spot as Connecticut’s fourth all-time leading scorer in girls’ basketball—she’s been the undisputed star of the show. Her relentless energy, lethal drop-steps, and court vision made her a force to be reckoned with. She didn’t just play the game; she directed it, commanding every play with precision and flair. Whether it was sinking shots from unimaginable distances or orchestrating her team’s every move, Arel was the heartbeat of the Yellowjackets, leading them to the 2025 Berkshire League title.
But this is the part most people miss: Arel’s transition to Post University isn’t just about moving up in the basketball world—it’s about evolving her game entirely. At Gilbert, she was the go-to player, taking 25-40 shots per game and shouldering the scoring load out of necessity. Now, she’s trading that role for something far more nuanced. “I’m not at the top of the food chain anymore,” Arel admits. “I want to stay healthy and be whatever type of player the team needs—whether that’s a lockdown defender or a playmaker setting up my teammates.”
This shift isn’t as drastic as it might seem. During her AAU summers, Arel thrived in a more balanced role, focusing on defense and ball distribution—a style she’s eager to revisit. “I’ll actually be able to play the type of basketball I want to play,” she says. “It’s so much more than scoring. I’m looking to prove I can compete at a high level without putting up the numbers I did in high school.”
And this is where it gets controversial: Is Arel’s new role a step back, or a leap forward? Some might argue that stepping away from the scoring spotlight diminishes her impact. But Arel sees it as an opportunity to grow—both as a player and a teammate. Post University head coach Courtney Burns has been instrumental in this transition, offering sage advice on gaining teammates’ trust and minimizing turnovers. “Teammates want to know the ball is coming back if they pass it to you,” Arel explains. “It’s easier to trust all five players in college, where everyone’s here because they’re talented and committed.”
Arel’s preparation for this new chapter has been relentless. She spent her summer lifting weights 3-5 days a week at the Gilbert gym and perfecting her shot, sticking to a routine of 500 makes per day. Her dedication is undeniable, but the real challenge lies in the mental adjustment. “The days are going to be longer, the play more physical, and the competition better,” she acknowledges. “I know it’s going to be different, but I’m ready.”
As Arel embarks on this next chapter, one thing is clear: she’s not just adapting—she’s thriving. Gilbert handed her the ball as a freshman and asked her to carry the team. Now, Post University is offering her a chance to redefine her legacy. Will she succeed? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Emily Arel is ready to prove that her impact goes far beyond the scoreboard.
What do you think? Is Arel’s new role a smart move, or should she have stuck to what made her a legend? Let us know in the comments!
