Potter on point during Olympic qualification

St. Vital

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This article was published 21/02/2024 (568 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A shooting star in more ways than one, Emily Potter has been just as busy travelling between continents as she’s been moving around the basketball court.

The 28-year-old native of south St. Vital native is currently playing professional basketball in Australia for the Perth Lynx in the Women’s National Basketball League, and recently returned to the west coast of Australia from Hungary after being part of the Canadian women’s national team that recently qualified for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

“It was super-cool to be part of it,” said Potter, speaking from Perth on Feb. 15, noting she was still feeling the effects of jet lag. “We qualified in pretty dramatic fashion – everyone went through the wringer of emotions.”

Canada’s Olympic qualification couldn’t have come down to the wire any more dramatically.

Alhough Canada lost 86-82 to Japan in its final game, Spain’s 73-72 comeback victory over Hungary means the Canadian team will be heading to Paris this summer.

Potter, a six-foot-five centre who previously played club basketball in Greece and the Czech Republic after graduating from the University of Utah, said she savours playing for the national team.

“Playing for the national team is my favourite experience because of the level of the environment, the level of play, and the level of professionalism. It’s top-notch,” said Potter, a Glenlawn Collegiate alumna.

Potter said Canada’s Olympic participation “must be meant to be,” although she’s not taking being selected for the Olympic tournament for granted. The former Samuel Burland School student said the Olympic squad likely won’t be announced until around a month before the Olympics, which un from July 26 to Aug. 11.

“I know there’s a chance for me to make the squad … but it’s now very competitive. There are tons of different players that could make the team, as there’s tons of talent in the women’s game,” Potter said.

“I’m always thankful every time I put on the Canadian women’s jersey and represent my country.”

Adam Wedlake, the longtime executive director of Basketball Manitoba, has followed Potter’s progress for many years.“She’s unique,” Wedlake said, noting Potter has been involved with the organization’s programs since she was 11 or 12.

“Emily is almost a once-in-a-generation player, and she really has broken the ceiling with her experiences and opportunities in our program through the years,” Wedlake said.

Wedlake said Potter is not only inspirational to young athletes in the city, but has also a stalwart in giving back to the communitye.

“When Emily does get back here to visit, after she catches her breath, she’s more than happy to hold basketball camps for women and girls, which gives them inspiration. She’s an inspiring person, and a strong voice and advocate for mental health, as well. She’s had some bruises along the way, and she remains humble.”

Aside from her physical prowess and strength on the court, Wedlake said one of Potter’s biggest assets is her work ethic.