CFNN reporters: Lily Jordan and Contessa Williams 

Our Athlete of the week reporters are here to give you an inside look at the star athletes of Cape Fear in a new column to showcase the best of the best in 2025!

Sophomore Emily Harris has already made a huge impact on the girls varsity basketball team in her two years at Cape Fear. She ranks in the top 3 on the team for points per game, steals per game, free throws per game, 3 pointers, points, and steals. Emily isn’t just a remarkable basketball player, but also a great person all around. 

Basketball is nothing new to Harris. She has been playing since she was eight years old, playing in a recreational league, inspired by her older brother, Will Harris. 

“I’d say my biggest inspiration is my brother. He probably taught me the most about basketball,” Emily shares. Will, a former basketball player himself, has always been her biggest supporter and mentor.

Being a sophomore on varsity has its pros and cons. While it may come with lots of perks and glory, it also presents lots of mental challenges. 

“Like last night, with two of our starters being out, it was a lot to handle as a sophomore, but I just have to trust myself and know it’s just me on the court and no one else,” Emily said. “It’s a big mentality challenge, which is what a lot of people don’t understand,”. 

Her coach praises her dedication and skill, stating, “Emily is a very coachable player. One of the most coachable players I’ve had in a very long time. Emily is fearless, and whenever she is asked to do something, I know I’ll see it in the next couple of positions,”.

When Emily isn’t on the court or practicing, she enjoys spending time with her friends Ana, Ava, Maddie, and Olivia. “I love hanging out with my friends or going out to Taco Bell or Miyabies to eat with my family,” she adds. 

Emily Harris is not just a star on the court, she is also a well rounded individual with a bright future ahead. Stay tuned for next week to see the next feature of Cape Fear’s star athletes.