(by Rocco Fattori Giuliano) Erin Elizabeth Mathias, professional basketball player from the United States, is embarking on a new adventure with Alpo Basket (the women’s basketball team of Verona) in their first season in Serie A1. In an exclusive interview, Mathias shared her sports journey, ambitions, and passions, which she has successfully intertwined with her basketball career.
After playing for Duke University and spending three seasons in Italy with Empoli, Mathias took a two-year break from basketball. “I thought I was done with basketball,” she recalls. “I found a job in the U.S. and pursued other passions, but I missed the competition. I was so happy when Alpo called I wasn’t sure if I was going to have the opportunity to come back to Italy.
I loved my time here, my time in Empoli. I loved the culture, pretty much everything about it. So, I was very happy to come back. Returning to the court has given me a new, more mature perspective.”
European basketball captivated Mathias with its physical style of play: “In the U.S., the game is more regulated, and referees often call every foul. Here in Italy, the game is tougher, and I prefer it that way.”
At Alpo, her goal is to grow as a player and help the team establish itself in Serie A1 (the top national championship): ” We would love to be saved at the end of the season, but our main goal is just for everyone to develop and to become a little bit better both as individual players and as a team. If we do that at the end of the season I don’t think there’s anything to be ashamed of, but obviously our goal is to win as many games as we possibly can and not let like those close games slip away from us.”
A lifelong fan of Breanna Stewart, Mathias expresses great enthusiasm for the growth of women’s basketball in both the U.S. and Europe. Seeing the sport she played since she was four years old finally receive the attention it deserves fills her with joy. “It’s wonderful to see players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese bring visibility to the sport, bringing new energy to the WNBA after their college careers.”
She also emphasizes the crucial role of social media in promoting women’s basketball, explaining how the combination of talented athletes and online platforms has driven exponential growth worldwide. Although she acknowledges that the progress in Italy is slower, Mathias is hopeful that the movement will gain momentum and firmly believes that women’s basketball is headed in the right direction.
Mathias also shared an inspiring message for young girls aspiring to pursue a professional basketball career. “Don’t let the fear of failure stop you from trying,” she emphasizes, aware of the challenges that come with the journey. Achieving important goals, whether in basketball or life, requires believing in yourself and constantly striving to improve. The path to success is never linear, and along the way, there will always be people who doubt your abilities. “The most important thing,” she stresses, “is to believe in yourself, even when others don’t.” For Mathias, the journey to professionalism demands unwavering self-confidence and continuous effort.
Erin, a new life in Verona
Mathias is getting to know Verona and has already developed a strong bond with her teammates: “The group is fantastic, everyone gets along so well. We’ve got great vibes. Like, I love being around them.” Although she misses her partner and one of her two dogs, who will join her in December, Mathias is enjoying her experience in Italy and is open to the idea of settling in Europe.
In her free time, Erin practices yoga, meditation, and photography. “Basketball has always been my passion, but now I want to find balance and enjoy every moment without too much pressure.” Mental preparation is also a priority: “I’m working on staying calmer on the court, which isn’t always easy for a player who often plays in the post.”
Looking Beyond Basketball
Outside of basketball, Erin (above in a photo of the Herald Sun) doesn’t rule out pursuing creative projects. “I’d like to make a name for myself as an editorial and sports photographer. If anyone needs a photographer, contact me! I need to fill my afternoons, or I’ll go crazy,” she jokes.
Mathias has always had a creative side. “Growing up, I loved designing clothes, and I even interned in New York with a fashion designer. However, I realized that I prefer styling and photography over making garments.” Erin is currently exploring the idea of combining fashion and sports in her photography career and has started collaborating with local brands.
