Emily Love's Basketball Journey Earns Her Induction into Hooptown Hall of Fame

Emily Love, formerly known as Emily Westerberg, recalls her very first experience on the basketball court, which occurred at the tender age of three. As the only girl on a boys' team, she felt an overwhelming sense of fear. "I was terrified," Love shared. "My very first basket was scored on the other team’s basket. I was so embarrassed." Despite those humble beginnings, Love's subsequent scoring prowess contributed to a remarkable athletic career, which included national championships with the Spokane Stars, state titles with Central Valley High School, and NCAA tournament appearances with Arizona State University.

This June 24, Love will be honored with her induction into the Hooptown Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class, marking her third Hall of Fame recognition, following her previous honors at both Central Valley and ASU. "To have the recognition of being inducted into my hometown Hall of Fame is so special," she expressed. "It feels like legacy to me." Love now resides in Peachtree City, Georgia, and plans to attend the ceremony, reflecting on her impactful journey in basketball.

During her time at Central Valley, Love led her team to an impressive 82-4 record over three years while setting a school scoring record of 1,460 points, a mark that has since been surpassed. At ASU, she capped her final season by guiding the Sun Devils to their best-ever record of 31-5 and a historic Elite Eight appearance. Love attributes much of her success to the strong friendships she formed, particularly with Aubree Johnson Chestnut, her longtime teammate and co-captain at ASU. "She's my soul sister," Love said of Chestnut, who has been an unwavering support through life's challenges.

Love's path took a significant turn when she was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA's third round. However, after her friend suffered a family tragedy, Love chose to prioritize her friend's well-being over a professional basketball career. "She's one of the most incredible people I've ever known," Chestnut remarked about Love. The two decided to step back from basketball to focus on life and family, with Love marrying former ASU football player Grayling Love in 2007.

Now a mother of four, Love balances her family life with her career as a certified life coach and co-owner of a business focused on leadership development. "Outside of raising my family, it's work that I believe God put me on the planet to do," she stated. Love's gratitude for her basketball journey is evident as she reflects on how the sport has enriched her life in countless ways. "There is not a thread in my life that basketball has not influenced," she concluded, paying tribute to the coaches who shaped her career and personal growth.