Emily Bojan’s Transition from Softball to Basketball at DePaul
Emily Bojan, after a successful softball career at Wisconsin, joined the DePaul women’s basketball team. Among the first people she informed was Mary Clare Brusek, her former basketball teammate at Marist. Brusek recently completed four years of volleyball at Western Michigan before joining its basketball team, where she played 19 games.
When Bojan called Brusek with the news of joining DePaul basketball, Brusek was skeptical. Bojan had played four years of softball for the Wisconsin Badgers. However, Assistant Softball Coach Danielle Zymkowitz encouraged Bojan to consider another sport, citing her competitive nature and suggesting basketball. With an available roster spot, Bojan transferred to DePaul, attracted by the opportunity to play close to home.
“She’s one of my best friends,” Bojan said about Brusek. “We’ve played basketball all our lives, and ironically, we ended up returning to it.”
Bojan, not aiming to star as a leading scorer, focuses on keeping pace, as her last competitive basketball experience was in 2022. She described the initial practices as challenging, particularly regaining basketball fitness.
During her time with the Badgers, Bojan maintained a .311 batting average, hit 13 home runs, and achieved a 35-game on-base streak in spring. Brusek provided advice, emphasizing perseverance and the importance of staying open to learning from teammates.
“Embrace the challenges,” Brusek advised. “Being inexperienced is okay, and it’s a wonderful experience to learn from others.”
DePaul Coach Jill Pizzotti recognizes Bojan’s leadership potential, despite her limited basketball experience. Pizzotti appreciates Bojan’s energy and leadership skills from her time as a college athlete, expressing confidence in her role at DePaul.
Bojan acquired the nickname “Bo” at Wisconsin from Zymkowitz. The nickname is not related to Bo Jackson or connected to her last name.
“My coach saw my tomboy side and wanted me to have a tougher name. ‘Bo’ suited me and I’m keeping it for basketball.”
Emily Bojan, from a Marist graduate to DePaul basketball player, is navigating this transition with determination and a supportive network.