Emily Bojan recently made an unexpected leap, joining the DePaul women’s basketball roster after completing a successful stint in softball at Wisconsin. One of the first individuals Bojan reached out to was Mary Clare Brusek, who shared her basketball journey. The two were teammates at Marist before Brusek played volleyball at Western Michigan and later joined the basketball team. Brusek’s season included a standout 14-point game against Valparaiso last December.
Brusek expressed disbelief when Bojan announced her basketball plans. Initially, she thought Bojan was joking. Interestingly, Danielle Zymkowitz, Wisconsin’s assistant softball coach, planted the idea in Bojan’s mind. Zymkowitz, recognizing Bojan’s competitive nature, encouraged her to try a new sport and suggested basketball as an option.
Though a basketball spot was available at Wisconsin, Bojan opted for DePaul, appreciating the proximity to home and the chance to play in front of familiar faces. Brusek’s family shares a connection with DePaul—her parents Sean and Megan were former athletes there, and Sean even coached Bojan and Brusek during their youth.
Bojan speaks warmly of Brusek, noting their lifelong connection to basketball, despite ultimately pursuing different sports. Bojan approaches her new role without aspiring to become a star player; her aim is to adjust to the competitive environment, especially since her last basketball stint was in 2022.
She admits the initial practices were challenging, highlighting the physical demand of returning to basketball shape after her softball career. As a catcher and utility player, Bojan had a solid .311 batting average in 161 games, hitting 13 homers and driving in 53 runs. This spring, her impressive 35-game on-base streak stood out.
Brusek has offered Bojan advice, emphasizing embracing challenges despite being inexperienced compared to her teammates. She encourages a supportive dynamic, allowing Bojan to learn from others, even though Bojan was often a leader in her softball team.
DePaul coach Jill Pizzotti acknowledges Bojan’s potential leadership and energy contribution to the basketball team. Despite her lack of basketball experience, Pizzotti believes Bojan’s background as a college athlete equips her to manage challenges successfully.
Bojan earned the nickname “Bo,” given by Coach Zymkowitz, reflecting her tomboyish nature. It’s not related to her athletic versatility or her last name. The nickname suited her in softball, and Bojan is keen to carry it into basketball.
Jeff Vorva, a freelance reporter, contributed to this article. (DePaul photo)