This isn’t surprising to anyone that was a fan of Troxell or watched her play over her four-year high school career at Bushland.
Troxell was a four-year starter for the Lady Falcons earning District MVP and All-State honors finishing her high school career with 1,894 points and 1,028 rebounds.
Following that chapter, Troxell had no doubts that signing with ACU was the right move for her, and it has been the perfect fit since.
“I am so glad I chose to come to ACU,” Troxell said. “I’m playing for such a great program and ACU is where I need to be. We have tremendous coaches, the community is amazing and it’s everything I thought when I signed here.”
As a freshman last season, the 5-foot-11 versatile forward appeared in all 30 games coming off the bench to average 19 minutes a game putting up 5.3 points a night, but this sophomore season is where Troxell has really taken the next step.
“When Emma came in last year, she did what we thought she would do and needed her to do,” said ACU women’s basketball coach Julie Goodenough, who is in her 13th season running the Wildcat program. “She’s a strong rebounder and was key off the bench. This year she’s taken that game to another level.”
Goodenough knew watching her in high school, Troxell was going to make an impact for her squad.
“The first time I saw Emma was at an AAU tournament,” said Goodenough, who has over 500 career wins. “Most of the time at those tournaments it’s all about scoring. That’s not how Emma played. She was outworking everyone getting rebounds and showed that grit you love from a player. That’s what I love about Texas Panhandle players. They are so good with their fundamentals and so tough.”
Troxell scored 12 points with three rebounds against the Lions which is par for her season. Through the first 11 games, Troxell has totaled five double-digit performances including a season-high 18 points and 11 boards against Incarnate Word. On the season, all of Troxell’s production has picked up averaging 27 minutes a night and 9.3 ppg.
“The game has slowed down to me,” Troxell said. “I have great coaches and teammates that have helped me adjust and I’ve found my role. I’ve really embraced that role and I just want to keep getting better to help my team win games.”
Goodenough echoed Troxell’s comment.
“Emma has learned to score in multiple ways,” Goodenough said. “She was already a huge example on toughness like taking charges and hitting the floor for loose balls, but now her perimeter game has improved and she’s just becoming an all-around complete player. I can’t wait to see her get even better.”