Steveley, a 6-foot guard/forward from Wapakoneta, Ohio, averaged 8.8 points and 3.8 rebounds for Wapakoneta High School as they posted a 25-2 record and finished as the Ohio Division II state runner-up. She also compiled 84 assists, 31 steals, and tied for the team lead with 18 blocked shots. The four-year varsity letterwinner was a Western Buckeye League Special Mention pick and a participant in the District 8 All-Star Game.

"We are very pleased that Emily has made the decision to attend MVNU and play basketball next year,” said MVNU coach Steve Gregory. "She had a very good senior season that ended at Value City Arena in the state championship game. Unfortunately, (Wapakoneta) lost, but their team experienced an amazing journey.”

"Emily brings a lot of versatility to the table with her 6-foot frame and ball-handling abilities,” Gregory continued. "I think she will fit nicely for us in the big guard/small forward position and I expect her to compete for time right away. She can slash, shoot the mid-range and long-range jumpers, and she is a solid rebounder and a very good defender.”

"Emily is a strong Christian kid who will fit in very well with our team both on and off the floor,” Gregory added. "I look forward to seeing her in the blue and green and representing MVNU next year.”

In addition to playing basketball at Wapakoneta, Steveley was also a four-year letterwinner in track and cross country and was a district champion in cross country in 2006. She also received four academic letters.

"I chose MVNU because I was looking for a smaller university with Christian values,” said Steveley of her college choice. "I felt very welcomed during my admissions visit. I have one sister who graduated from MVNU and another one now attending who both love it. I know I can get a good education at MVNU. I believe God has led me there. Playing basketball for the team is just a bonus.”

MVNU finished the 2008-2009 season with a 27-9 overall record - the best in school history - as the Lady Cougars captured their third National Christian College Athletic Association national title and also finished as the American Mideast Conference Tournament runner-up.