Emma Burmeister: A Rising Star in Basketball

When Emma Burmeister, the point guard from Lindenhurst, steps onto the court, it’s like entering a realm of triple-double possibilities.

This standout from Cortland, one of triplets with two brothers also keen on athletics, has made a significant impact on Bulldog fans with a legacy that includes the most points scored since the 1980s.

“Having a supportive family really helps me, both socially and on the basketball court,” Burmeister shared, referring to her brothers, Alex and Jacob. “They’re basically at every game, cheering me on.”

This fourth-year varsity player has had an impressive senior season, currently sitting as Lindenhurst’s second all-time leading scorer, with nearly 1,200 points marked, even with three games left to play.

“She’s been training at my open gym since seventh grade. I knew she would be a standout player, one of our best,” remarked Coach Gregory Flynn. “Honestly, I’m going to miss her next year. I can’t quite picture the team without her.”

Burmeister’s scoring achievements are noteworthy, ranking just behind former Duke University player Monica Coste, who scored 1,448 points in 1987. Recently, she surpassed 2016 graduate Alexis Perdue for second place on that list.

“By the end of my sophomore year, my scores were between 500 and 600. I thought, ‘This is what I want to reach by high school,’” Burmeister reflected.

Flynn noticed her determination right away. “Whatever I asked her to improve on, she did,” he said. “She needed to refine her right hand, and she showed up the next year with significant improvement.”

Three’s a Charm

As Burmeister advanced in her senior year, so did Alex and Jacob as they made their mark as speedy wide receivers on the football team.

Emma also plays lacrosse in the spring, but she often takes breaks during the fall to support her brothers on the field each week.

“From the stands, I’m constantly explaining the game to my mom and friends,” she said. “I just want the best for them; it feels wrong to miss out on their successes.”

Alex, a long-pole defender, has plans to play at Geneseo next season, while Jacob is mulling over multiple college football offers.

“We’ve been competitive from a young age,” Emma noted. She often trains with Alex, “Everything is a competition, whether it’s basketball in the driveway or anything else.”

Once the game ends, the friendly rivalry takes a backseat, as the Burmeisters remain close, supporting one another in their pursuits.

“Adjusting to college life without them is daunting. I’ve never been to school alone. Birthdays have always been shared,” she admitted. “I’ve never had to fend for myself since they’ve always been my other half.”

No Isolation

Yet, she won’t be entirely alone at college. Her new coach, Colleen Ames, has a connection to her previous team and is a familiar face.

“The interesting part is Coach Cortland played for Flynn and graduated from here,” Burmeister explained. “She’s watched me play at times, more as a fan than a scout.”

Flynn, who has coached Ames during her time in AAU, is optimistic about the dynamics between Burmeister and her new coach. “This should ease her transition to college basketball,” he mentioned.

“Coach Ames is very much integrated into the team,” he added.

Beyond just their shared colors of Lindenhurst green and white, Burmeister and Ames share common ground. “We’re both highly competitive and passionate about the game,” Burmeister concluded. “I’m excited to play under her.”