Emily Engstler is an American professional basketball player who currently plays forward for the Washington Mystics in the WNBA. Known for her versatility, rebounding, and defensive prowess, Engstler was selected fourth overall in the 2022 WNBA Draft and has quickly established herself as a valuable contributor in the league.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Emily Ann Engstler
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Date of Birth: May 1, 2000
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Hometown: Queens, New York
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Height: 6’1″ (1.85 m)
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Weight: 180 lbs (82 kg)
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Position: Forward
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Family:
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Parents: Marilyn and William Engstler
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One brother and one sister
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High School:
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Christ the King Regional High School (freshman year)
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St. Francis Preparatory School (junior and senior years)
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Sat out sophomore year due to transfer rules
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Junior year: Averaged 19 points, 15.7 rebounds, 5.9 blocks, 3.4 steals per game
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Senior year: Averaged 18.3 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 3.3 steals, 2.1 blocks per game
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Recorded the first quadruple-double in school history (27 points, 29 rebounds, 11 assists, 10 blocks)
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New York Gatorade Player of the Year (2018)
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McDonald’s All-American (2018)
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Five-star recruit, ranked ninth in the 2018 class by ESPN
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College Career
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Syracuse (2018–2021):
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Three seasons with the Orange
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Known for her rebounding and versatility
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Louisville (2021–2022):
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Transferred for her senior season
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First-team All-ACC
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Key contributor to a top-ranked team
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Professional Career
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WNBA Draft: 1st round, 4th overall, 2022 by Indiana Fever
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Teams:
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Indiana Fever (2022)
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Minnesota Lynx (2023, hardship contract)
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Washington Mystics (2024–present)
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WNBA Stats (through 2025):
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2022 (Indiana Fever): 5.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.1 blocks per game
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2023 (Minnesota Lynx): 1.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.4 steals, 0.1 blocks per game
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2024 (Washington Mystics): 6.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.8 blocks per game
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2025 (Washington Mystics): 3.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.6 blocks per game
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Career highs:
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Points: 23 (June 22, 2024, vs. Dallas Wings)
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Rebounds: 9 (June 22, 2024, vs. Dallas Wings)
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Overseas:
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Flammes Carolo Basket (France, 2022–2023)
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Hapoel Lev Jerusalem (Israel, 2024–present)
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Athletes Unlimited:
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Played in the 2024 season
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Named Defensive Player of the Year
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Averaged 8.9 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 2.1 steals, 2.3 blocks per game
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Achievements & Honors
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Washington Mystics (WNBA, 2024–present)
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Indiana Fever (WNBA, 2022)
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Minnesota Lynx (WNBA, 2023)
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First-team All-ACC (college)
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New York Gatorade Player of the Year (high school)
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McDonald’s All-American (high school)
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Athletes Unlimited Defensive Player of the Year (2024)
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First quadruple-double in St. Francis Prep history
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Five-star recruit, ranked ninth in the 2018 class by ESPN
Playing Profile
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Strengths:
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Elite rebounding and defensive versatility
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Strong shot-blocking and steals
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High basketball IQ and leadership
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Clutch performer in big games
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Style:
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Aggressive, dynamic forward who excels in transition and half-court defense
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Brings toughness, championship experience, and a team-first mentality
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FAQs About Emily Engstler
What position does Emily Engstler play?
Forward
Which team does she play for?
Washington Mystics (WNBA)
How old is Emily Engstler?
25 (born May 1, 2000)
What are her main achievements?
First-team All-ACC, New York Gatorade Player of the Year, McDonald’s All-American, Athletes Unlimited Defensive Player of the Year, first quadruple-double in St. Francis Prep history, first-round WNBA draft pick
What is her playing style?
Versatile, aggressive forward with elite rebounding and defense
Conclusion
Emily Engstler is a dynamic and accomplished forward whose rebounding, defensive versatility, and leadership have made her a valuable addition to the Washington Mystics and a rising star in women’s basketball.
