2026 Basketball interview with Emily Ritzer from Utica and Youngstown State commit


Name: Emily Ritzer

School/town: Utica High School/Newark

Positions played: Forward

Class of 2027

Height: 6'2

Jersey Number: 25

Awards won or earned:

Basketball: LCL 2nd team for both 9th & 10th grade seasons; District 11 1st team, both 9th & 10th grade; Central District D3 Honorable Mention 9th grade & Central District D5 Honorable Mention, 10th grade; Scholar Athletes in both 9th & 10th grade.

Volleyball: LCL 2nd team 10th grade, LCL Honorable Mention, 11th grade; Central District D5 Honorable Mention 10th Grade, 2nd Team 11th Grade; Scholar Athlete 9th, 10th, & 11th grade

HUDL LINK: https://www.hudl.com/profile/4826154/Emily-Ritzer/highlights

Other sports played: Volleyball

Please post something from last season that sticks out to you. It can be from a game, practice, or something funny on the bus ride to or from the game. Any moment that sticks out to you.

Beating Granville for the first time in many years on their home court.

What did you miss from the 2025 class?

We only had 1 senior last year. It’s been nice this year that our team is basically made up of the same players this year.

What were your personal goals heading into the season, and how close have you come to achieving them?

My goals were to be a more vocal leader and try to get a double-double every game. I have achieved them almost every game.

Who has been the best player that you have faced this season, along with the team she was on?

I don’t think there’s been just one player, but all the teams in the LCL are physical and competitive.

What has been your biggest moment as a high school basketball player?

Being able to start and play every game of my high school career

Is there a particular reason why you wear #25?

No, I’ve just always liked the number.

Which road gym has the best overall atmosphere? Explain

Johnstown, because they are our rivals and the stands are usually packed, and the crowd is very invested in the game.

Should there be a shot clock in high school basketball?

No. I played with a shot clock in AAU last year, and it definitely pushes you to speed up your offense.

What is the strength of your game?

Rebounding and being strong inside the paint.

When things are a little tense at practice, which teammate is most likely to do something to loosen things up?

Madison Yates

What is your favorite part of practice?

Free Throws

Why should your number be called when the game is on the line?

I’ll always give all my effort and energy into what’s being asked of me to do without excuses or complaints.

What is something you would love to do in a game but might never have the chance to?

Hit a buzzer-beater, end-of-game, half-court shot.

What are you doing outside of sports to have fun?

Hanging out with friends and reading

What was the last book that you read along with the author?

In a Heartbeat by Laura Pavlov

Who is your favorite athlete?

I don’t have one.


 Follow me on X @HEARTLANDFAN15

 

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