Heather Ernest had no idea choosing a new number would have such long-term ramifications.

When the former Mt. Blue standout arrived at the University of Maine, the No. 21 she wore all through high school wasn’t available. So she had to find a new number.

“I came to school and Kizzy Lopez was No. 21, and I had No. 21 in high school,” said Ernest. “I expected to be No. 21 and she had it. I had been No. 11 early on when I was really young. It was open so I said that I’d take it.”

She was actually glad about the change. It allowed her to put No. 21 and her high school years behind her and start anew.

“I think it worked out well for me,” said Ernest.

So well that the University will retire that No. 11 this afternoon prior to the Black Bears 2 p.m. game against Michigan. It is an honor that only four other UMaine women’s players have ever earned.

“I’m a little nervous,” she said. “I’m really anxious and excited about what’s going to happen. It doesn’t really feel real to me. There’s no one else that will be able to wear No. 11. I’m sure it will be different when I see how things will go.”

Ernest, who is currently playing professionally in Luxembourg for the club team Residence Walferdang, arrived home early this week and returns to Europe in early January. She made a return trip to Orono to visit her former coach and teammates last Tuesday.

She admits she got a little teary-eyed watching practice and reliving the college basketball life she led for four years.

“It made me realize that I had such a great time at Maine in four years,” said Ernest, who was the third all-time leading scorer and third player ever to have over 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds. “I met a lot of wonderful people and learned a lot about life and about myself and had amazing support from friends and family and the Maine fans.

“I definitely appreciated what I had and I’m that much better for it.”

Ernest says she wouldn’t be where she’s at today had it not been for her experiences at UMaine. She’s living on her own and playing in a foreign country, where the lifestyle and basketball is brand new to her.

“It gave me confidence and tolerance to go through something like this, where I don’t know the language” said Ernest. “If I hadn’t experienced all that, I don’t think I’d be where I am right now.”

Ernest went to Europe after Versyp suggested the option. She thought of playing in Ireland or Sweden but chose Luxembourg because it was centrally located.

It’s a different brand of basketball and the language barrier is a challenge, but its a unique opportunity she couldn’t resist.

“It’s different but it was a good different,” said Ernest. “I was ready to do that. It’s certainly an experience I’ll never have again. It was different, but I adjusted.”

She says the level of play there fits her ability well, but her career in Europe could be short-lived. She’s applied to graduate school and if she’s accepted, she may start a whole new chapter.

“I might not play another year, but things change,” said Ernest, who said she might even try playing in another country. “It’s nice to have options. I’ll see what happens.”