For McAmis it was love at first sight

WISE, Virginia – For Wise County Central senior Emmah McAmis, basketball was a story of love at first jump.

“I grew up in a gym and dribbled the ball before I could walk,” McAmis said.

McAmis’ first mentor and role model was her father.

In his 20 years as head coach of the JJ Kelly, Twin Springs and Wise Central boys basketball teams, TJ McAmis won 241 games.

“Growing up, I was able to attend my dad’s basketball camps, practices and games and that really sparked my love for the sport,” Emmah said.

Over time, Emmah has learned that without hours of preparation, you won’t get a prize.

“I absorbed everything I could from a young age and still remember a lot of what my dad taught his players,” McAmis said.

McAmis received further inspiration and guidance from watching and competing with her older siblings and cousins.

Her brother Isaiah scored 1,693 points at Wise Central before finding a spot in the basketball program at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise.

“I have always been her biggest fan,” McAmis said. “My family has never made it easy for me and has taught me many valuable life lessons that have made me who I am today.”

In three seasons at Wise Central, Emmah McAmis scored 2,203 points and generated a number of headlines and highlights that caught the attention of college recruiters at all levels.

Thanks to McAmis’ fast-paced offense, the Wise Central Warriors made it to the VHSL Class 2 championship game three years ago with two wins and a second-place finish.

“My main goal was to win state all four years, but not being able to compete the second year motivated me,” McAmis said. “We have high standards here and I like that.”

The trainer of the Wise Central Warriors is experienced coach Robin Dotson.

“Emmah’s impact on our program has been invaluable,” Dotson said. “Her competitiveness and drive are unmatched. And Emmah is just so athletic that she’s a nightmare for opposing teams.”

Dotson pointed out another dimension that makes McAmis stand out from the crowd.

“The bigger the game, the bigger Emmah plays,” Dotson said.

In the 2024 Class 2 championship, McAmis had 27 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals as the Warriors posted a 58-41 win over John Marshall.

During the season, she averaged 24.2 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists, earning her Player of the Year honors from the Bristol Herald Courier.

“I don’t think words can describe the feeling of winning a state title,” McAmis said. “The accomplishment is just so satisfying. I think about these games every day.”

McAmis likes to take on challenges. For example, her height of 1.70 meters.

“My last growth spurt was after last basketball season, so I think my growth is done,” McAmis said. “Sometimes I wish I were taller.”

“Sometimes I like my height because I hear a lot of people say I’m too small and I’ll never make it. That motivates me to prove those people wrong and show that size doesn’t matter.”

McAmis has been silencing critics for years, at the high school, travel ball and camp levels.

“When I got to a certain age, my dad actually let me practice with his teams,” McAmis said. “I was able to do the drills and practice against the guys. I just loved being around the game and was super excited when I got the chance to play for Coach Dotson.”

Travel ball began in eighth grade. After facing regional competition with the Nautilus Express team, McAmis moved to the Under Armour Circuit and the West Virginia Thunder.

“I’ve played in a lot of different states over the last five years,” McAmis said. “There’s a lot of talent in the Under Armour circuit and a lot of the girls I’ve played against have signed with an NCAA Division 1 college. That experience has definitely helped me hone my skills.”

McAmis said she has received offers from universities such as Western Carolina, East Tennessee State, Colgate, Appalachian State, Marshall, Purdue, Fort Wayne, Wofford and Youngstown State.

“I made six visits, but all of them were unofficial,” McAmis said. “I plan to make more visits after my travel ball season ends.”

“Sometimes the recruiting process can be a little stressful, but at the same time it’s a lot of fun. Not every player gets this experience, so I’m very grateful for these opportunities.”

Regarding her eagerly awaited decision, McAmis said it was in the exploratory phase.

“I’m not sure where I am in the process yet, but I hope to make a decision before the basketball season starts this winter,” McAmis said.

Right now, McAmis is testing her skills in her version of summer basketball school against bigger and faster opponents.

“I want to be a complete player my senior year,” McAmis said. “My ability to get to the basket and either finish under the basket or create space for my teammates is what sets me apart, but I’m still working on my three-point consistency and just gaining more confidence.”

The pace is moving quickly for McAmis, but she manages to keep her eyes on the grand prize.

“My trophies are actually on a shelf in my room and they’re the first thing I see when I come in,” McAmis said. “Whether I’m having a good day or a bad day, seeing these trophies helps me keep working toward my goals.”

How does McAmis want to conclude the high school version of her basketball love story?

“With another state championship,” McAmis said. “I’ve worked hard and been fortunate to have great coaches and teammates over the years.”

“Now I want to further build my legacy at Wise Central with another achievement.”

All-BHC Girls Basketball Team

Player of the Year: Emmah McAmis, Wise County Central

Coach of the Year: Terri Anne Hill Funk, Eastside

Emmah McAmis, Wise County Central

Annsley Trivette, Abingdon

Addie Wilhoit, Tennessee High

Jaydyn Carrico, Gate City

Madison Looney, Wise County Central

Makaylan Luttrell, George Wythe

[email protected] — Twitter: @Greg_BHCSports <&dateline> (276) 645-2544