Basketball Preview 12-22-2022

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BALDWIN

Bruins set to defend title

By TONY BELLISSIMO

The Bruins were hit hard by graduation as 12 members of last season’s Nassau and Long Island Class AA boys’ basketball championship team departed, leaving just three returnees.

“We’re very inexperienced but these kids play year-round and it’s just a matter of jelling and improving every day,” head coach Darius Burton said. “We’re in a competitive conference and Class AA is as deep as it’s been in a long time. Every game will be tough.”

Baldwin’s most accomplished returnee is senior Joshua Petion, an All-Conference selection who averaged 10 points and 8 rebounds last winter. He’s 6-foot-3 and the starting center. “We’ll be counting on Joshua for a double-double

every night,” Burton said. “He can finish around the basket and guard anyone.”

Senior Jaylen Brown assumes a starting role after bringing a spark off the bench. Burton believes he’s one of the best outside shooters in the county and will pick up some of the scoring slack lost off last season’s roster.

Senior guard Dylan Madden, a captain along with Petion and Brown, can play either backcourt spot and checks a lot of the skill boxes, Burton noted. Either madden or talented Peyton Howell, the first eighth-grader on a Burtoncoached team in 22 years, will run the show from the point.

Howell was the MVP of the Hempstead Summer League and a standout on the AAU circuit as well. “He’s such a poised player for his age,” Burton said. “He has outstanding control of the ball, scores and defends.”

likely need to get it done without their All-State center and also an All-Long Island shooting guard as senior Dallysshya Moreno and Renelle Grannum suffered torn ACL’s during the offseason.

Moreno, a dominant post player headed to Stony Brook University, averaged 15 points and 13 rebounds last winter and put up 24 and 20, respectively, in the state semifinal victory over CiceroNorth Syracuse. “Dally is obviously a D1 talent who does it all,” Baldwin head coach Tom Catapano said of Moreno, who was injured during a summer league game in July.

Grannum, hurt in a travel game in May, was arguably the team’s best player down the stretch last season and led it with 16 points in the Long Island Class AA championship game win over Longwood. “She’s incredible at both ends of the floor and fills the stat sheet,” Catapano said.

grow every day,” said Catapano, who expects Massapequa, Syosset and Port Washington to pose the biggest threats.

Schedule BOYS

December

a consistent perimeter threat

Senior guard David Polonia is a consistent perimeter threat who’ll help the Bruins stretch defenses. Sophomore guard Jalen Waters, a JV starter last winter, has displayed a strong two-way game and projects to be among the starting five.

Juniors Shane Mauldin and Myles Austin, as well as sophomore Chase Timberlake, will also contribute.

RARE ADVERSITY HITS BALDWIN

Baldwin’s girls program hasn’t faced much adversity over the past decade and enters the 2022-23 campaign looking for an unprecedented ninth consecutive county championship. However, the Lady Bruins will

A third standout, All-County point guard Katelyn Simpson, could return before the calendar flips to January but has been sidelined by a dislocated kneecap. The senior shutdown defender and facilitator is someone who makes everyone else around her better, Catapano said.

Sophomore guard Payton Dulin will need to take on some more of the scoring workload with Moreno and Grannum out. She burst onto the scene last season and started all 25 games, earning All-County honors.

Sophomore Toni Smith moves into the starting lineup at forward and is a breakout candidate, Catapano said. Sophomore Madison Guillory will also assume a larger role in the frontcourt.

Another sophomore, guard Monique Echols, sets the defensive tone along with Simpson. Freshman Alyssa Polonia and eighthgrader Chinaya Okogeri will also contribute.

“We just have to work and

14 @ V.S. Central 7:00 p.m. 17 Port Washington 12:00 p.m. 21 @ Oceanside 7:00 p.m.

January

3 Herricks 7:00 p.m. 6 @ Westbury 7:00 p.m. 11 Plainview 7:00 p.m. 14 East Meadow 12:00 p.m. 17 V.S. Central 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Port Washington 7:00 p.m. 28 Oceanside 12:00 p.m. 31 @ Herricks 7:00 p.m.

February

3 Westbury 7:00 p.m. 8 Plainview 7:00 p.m. 11 @ East Maadow 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

14 V.S. Central 7:00 p.m.

17 @ Port Washington 12:00 p.m. 21 Oceanside 7:00 p.m.

January

3 @ Herricks 7:00 p.m. 6 Westbury 7:00 p.m. 11 @ Plainview 6:45 p.m.

14 @ East Meadow 12:00 p.m. 17 @ V.S. Central 7:00 p.m. 19 Port Washington 7:00 p.m. 30 @ Oceanside 7:00 p.m. 31 Herricks 7:00 p.m.

February

3 @ Westbury 7:00 p.m. 8 Plainview 7:00 p.m. 11 East Maadow 12:00 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

Joshua Petion

Katelyn Simpson

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CALHOUN

Colts playoff streak at five

By MARC BERMAN

Calhoun boys’ basketball returns just two of five starters and the losses are significant, too, jeopardizing a streak of five straight playoff appearances in the Nassau Class A tournament.

Shooting guard Chris Zaveckas (Maritime) and 6-foot-5 center Bryan Pena are playing in college, leaving longtime head coach Jay Kreutzberger’s team lacking height following a 12-8 season.

The good news is the Colts, who were eliminated in the first round of playoffs by Plainedge, bring back star point guard Matt Kalfas, All-County last season who averaged 13 points, 6 rebounds

and 4 assists.

“He can score, distribute and he’s a good defender,’’ Kreutzberger said. “The team will rely on him this year to be their leader.’’

The other returning starter is Tommy Bello, a power forward who has been mostly in a defensive role as a rebounder and rim protector. But with Pena no longer being their inside scorer at center, Calhoun will need Bello to make up some of those points in the interior after averaging 5 points and 5 rebounds last season.

Sean DiPaola will start at power forward. At 6-2, he’s very strong at attacking the rim, best on the squad.

After that solid trio which helped the boys’ volleyball team to a county championship in November, Kreutzberger is searching, relying on players with no starting experience.

winning seasons since Dan Catapano was promoted from assistant to head coach.

He thinks a real shot exists at making a third straight postseason bid despite losing three starters and leading scorer, center Holly DiPaola.

Catapano sees this club as an athletic bunch with scoring in transition off turnovers the key to prosperity. Last season, Calhoun’s swarming defense, led by shooting guard Mia Licari, earned them a 12-7 clip in Conference A1 before losing in the second round of the payoffs to North Shore.

three starters and leading scorer, turnovers prosperity. Last season, Calhoun’s former last season, and All-County

Licari, an All-County performer last season, and All-County honorable mention, 5-9 forward Margaret Casimano, return as starters.

If new starting point guard Ashleigh Coyne stabilizes the group, the Colts could be even better than 2021-22.

Wauchope, who didn’t play as a freshman. Catapano hopes a Lewis/Wauchope frontcourt can make up for DiPaolo’s interior loss.

22 and remains as chief

That includes Cody Schanstra, a small forward who came off the bench in 202122 and remains as chief wildcard. According to the coach, Schanstra has “gotten stronger physically’’ and is developing as a scorer – as a driver and 3-point shooter.

“We’ll rely a lot on them for our scoring and leadership,’’ Catapano said regarding Licari and Casimano. “And Coyne being on the team for three years, we have good leaders who make the kids compete every day. We’ll compete for the playoffs again.’’

Schedule BOYS

December

13 @ New Hyde Park 5:00 p.m. 20 Mepham 6:30 p.m.

January

Senior guard PJ Kakalos is expected to start at the season’s outset after missing all last season with an injury. There are high hopes, however, sophomore combo guard Riley Bhunut eventually will earn the starting nod despite his age. Bhunut was a talented scorer on JVy last season (14 ppg).

Licari averaged 3.2 steals, scoring lots of buckets off her swipes. She’s a sound 3-point shooter and slasher. Meanwhile, Casimano is a “stretch 4’’ who shoots the 3 – a varsity player for four years.

4 @ Long Beach 7:00 p.m. 6 G.N. South 7:00 p.m. 10 @ MacArthur 5:00 p.m. 13 Jericho 7:00 p.m. 18 New Hyde Park 7:00 p.m. 27 @ Mepham 7:00 p.m.

February

1 Long Beach 7:00 p.m. 4 @ G.N. South 12:00 p.m.

7 MacArthur 7:00 p.m. 10 @ Jericho 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

despite his age. Bhunut was season

Kreutzberger is entering his 15th season but faces more question marks than in past campaigns.

CALHOUN EYES PLAYOFF RETURN

Calhoun’s girls have logged two straight

However, it could fall on Coyne’s shoulders as she’s a first-year starter - a Sixth Man on the 2021-22 squad. “She’ll have a much bigger role this year offensively,’’ Catapano said. “She’s got a high IQ. She makes a lot of good decisions. She looks to get into the paint and dish it off to the shooters. She’s smart, always trying to make the right play.”

December

13 New Hyde Park 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Mepham 7:00 p.m.

January

4 Long Beach 7:00 p.m. 7 @ G.N. South 12:00 p.m. 10 MacArthur 7:00 p.m. 12 @ Jericho 7:00 p.m. 18 @ New Hyde Park 5:00 p.m. 26 Mepham 7:00 p.m.

She’s

The two other new starters are senior center Maria Lewis and sophomore power forward Dana

February

1 @ Long Beach 5:00 p.m. 4 G.N. South 1:00 p.m.

7 @ MacArthur 7:00 p.m. 10 Jericho 7:00 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

Mia Licari

Matt Kalfas

CAREY

Seahawks begin a new chapter

By TONY BELLISSIMO

It’s a fresh start for Carey boys’ basketball following a difficult 1-win season.

New head coach Dan Reece is optimistic the Seahawks can get back on the map and make a big enough leap to battle for a playoff spot in Conference A-III, which includes defending state champion Manhasset, Hewlett, Glen Cove, Roosevelt and Division.

“There’s a lot of excitement and the kids are practicing really hard,” said Reece, the former longtime head coach at Sewanhaka who has former Indians assistant Laurence Reid and former Carey star Derek Brown on staff. “We got going with open gyms in August

and we haven’t really set longterm goals except to try to be one of the playoff teams in our conference,” he added. “Everyone is looking forward to the challenges.”

The roster features a mix of seniors, juniors and sophomores, led by senior guard Nick Broas, described by Reece as Carey’s “most complete player.” Broas is expected to be the leading scorer most nights. “He’s a playmaker who does a little bit of everything,” Reece said. “He leads by example and has great basketball instincts.”

it was an awesome atmosphere and I’m so glad our kids got to experience it,” head coach Anthony Turco said. “Now we want to build off last season with four of five starters back.”

Carey’s strength is in the backcourt with guards Caylee DeMeo and Leila Paz, but Turco said the roster also includes size.

Seniors Ryan Simonetti and Mike DeMarco are returning varsity players projected to run the offense from the point, although Reece hinted both could be on the floor simultaneously. “Ryan is an offensive spark and Mike is an engine on defense,” Reece said.

an offensive spark and Mike is an

Also part of the backcourt are juniors Justin Villas and John Scott, both big JV contributors last season. “Both are great defenders and Justin has an outstanding vertical jump,” said Reece, who added sophomores David Yussuf, Brandon Goicko and Kevin Colvin will all see minutes as well.

Scott, both big JV contributors last

coach Anthony Turco said. “Now we want to build off last season backcourt and the as a game. UConn to play softball and needs 280 points to become third 1-6 at one point last season

Peluso will be a physical presence.

The Seahawks don’t have a lot of size and that’s why junior forward Nick Zografas, who’s 6-foot-2, will be asked to guard bigger opponents.

“We could struggle with rebounding so we want to move the ball fast whenever we can,” Reece said.

OFF

CAREY COMES OFF BREAKTHROUGH SEASON

Last winter was a memorable one for the Seahawks and considered a breakthrough in many ways as they finished .500 in conference play to snap an 8-year playoff drought.

“We lost at home to Seaford in the first round of the playoffs but

Last winter was a memorable one for the Seahawks and an 8-year playoff drought. round

and Caylee just carried us to the

DeMeo is a two-time All-County selection and was the Conference Player of the Year as a junior when she averaged 22 points per game. She’s headed to UConn to play softball and needs 280 points to become the third player in program history to reach 1,000. “We were 1-6 at one point last season and Caylee just carried us to the playoffs,” Turco explained. “Her leadership is tremendous and she’s a complete player.”

Paz averaged 8 points as a freshman and defends well. “She’s explosive on the fast break and also has shooting range,” Turco said. “She has a lot of talent and last year’s experience under her belt.”

“Our main goal is to make the playoffs and see what we can do once we get there,”

p.m.

Glen Cove 7:00 p.m.

Manhasset 7:00 p.m.

Hewlett 5:00 p.m.

Roosevelt 7:00 p.m.

Roosevelt 10:00 a.m.

from JV, has improved her shooting

Mikayla

Junior Michelle Zheng, up from JV, has improved her shooting touch to go with her defensive skills. Additional keys to the backcourt are sophomores Mikayla DePaolo and Alessandra Varuzzi. Turco said both are quality shooters and not afraid to have their numbers called.

Junior Valentina Falagna is a scrappy forward and a student of the game. She’s a returning starter and someone Turco believes can contribute more offense. Senior Brianna Suarez-Dubina started most games last season at center and brings size and power moves to the basket, and junior Vanessa

@ Hewlett 7:00 p.m.

February

p.m.

Glen Cove 10:00 a.m.

Manhasset 5:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

January

p.m.

p.m.

p.m.

p.m.

Roosevelt 12:00 p.m.

Hewlett 5:00 p.m.

February

p.m.

Glen Cove 12:00 p.m.

Manhasset 7:00 p.m.

Leila Paz

Photos by Neil Miller

Nick Broas

By BRIAN KACHARABA

CLARKE

During the 2021 abbreviated season, Clarke boys’ basketball head coach Joe Hasbrouck decided to call up the sophomores from the JV and give them their first taste of varsity.

That strategy ended up paying dividends last winter when the Rams qualified for the Nassau Class A playoffs and advanced to the second round as a No. 18 seed.

Eleven of the 13 players from that team were juniors, and that group remains mostly intact as they try to make one more run at a championship before the dreaded rebuild.

After a slow start, Clarke won six of its last eight games to punch

confidence can carry over into this season.

“Any time you get high school kids with confidence versus kids who are still unsure of themselves or second guessing everything or hesitant, it’s a huge difference,” he said. “Last year, they really ended playing good basketball and feeling like they were playing good basketball and I thought that helped us this summer and fall.”

James DeSimone was again the team’s leading scorer last season with a 14.4-point average after being among the county leaders as a sophomore at just under 21. “From last year to this year he has put in a lot of work,” Hasbrouck said. “He’s got to be one of the premier shooters in Nassau County.”

Center Jason Goetz is expected to miss the start of the

the team has depth up front with Jonathan Segura, whose two late free throws helped the Rams get past Great Neck South in the first

confident Tammyson Emile is in line for a strong

James DeSimone

CLARKE SHAKES

looking at a playoff push this

came during conference play. If the defense continues to improve and the offensive depth produces, the Rams could be looking at a playoff push this winter.

Clarke yielded an average of just over 40 points last season, but the offense conversely struggled at just under 36 points. Top scorer Lauren Genna (10.1 ppg) graduated, so head coach Shaun Fean is revamping the offensive to a system that can make anyone on the floor a scoring threat.

“Going into this year, it’s going to be more by committee,” he said. “I think it’s going to make us harder to play against defensively because you’re not sure where the ball’s going. Now, at any time on the floor, [we’ll have] four or five kids that can get us a bucket.”

Michelle Diaz (7.2 ppg) and Avika Mehta (4.9) both excelled as sophomores last year and are expected to be the main offensive catalysts this season. Diaz has already embraced her new role as the go-to player in crunch time, while Mehta is emerging as the team’s best defender, according to Fean.

Genna helped groom Julia Khashan to take over her spot at the team’s main outside threat and the senior will finally step into that role this season.

“She’s our best outside shooter,” Fean said. “Probably not at the same volume that Lauren shot it at, [but] will definitely be the one to knock down those outside shots for us.”

Senior Rina Visvanathan (5.8 ppg) is also a dependable shooter and JV newcomers Aanya Metha and Maddy Millman are expected to round out the starting five.

Junior transfer Izma Mir brings size

up front and Fean was impressed with senior Mandy Connolly’s defense and rebounding during training camp.

Conference rivals include North Shore and Island Trees.

December

13 Academy Charter 7:00 p.m. 16 @ Lawrence 7:00 p.m. 20 Island Trees 7:00 p.m.

January

4 @ V.S. South 5:00 p.m. 7 North Shore 12:00 p.m. 10 @ Friends Academy 7:00 p.m. 18 @ Academy Charter 7:00 p.m. 20 Lawrence 7:00 p.m. 27 @ Island Trees 7:00 p.m.

February

1 V.S. South 7:00 p.m.

4 @ North Shore 12:00 p.m.

7 Friends Academy 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

16 Lawrence 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Island Trees 7:00 p.m.

January

4 V.S. South 7:00 p.m. 7 @ North Shore 10:00 a.m. 10 Friends Academy 7:00 p.m. 21 Lawrence 12:00 p.m. 27 Island Trees 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ V.S. South 5:00 p.m. 4 North Shore 12:00 p.m.

7 @ Friends Academy 7:00 p.m.

Photos by Paul Grassini

its postseason ticket and Hasbrouck is hoping their newfound the team has depth up front with round. Hasbrouck said a more

Schedule BOYS

12 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

EAST MEADOW

Returning trio to lead Jets

By MARC BERMAN

The coaching staff feels East Meadow could be the most improved boys’ basketball team in Nassau Conference AA-2. It finished a disappointing 9-13 overall last winter but still made the playoffs, squeaking in as eighth seed with a late surge.

East Meadow head coach Tom Rottkamp is eyeing a reversal of last season’s 9-13 clip, trying to jump to 13-9. “But it will be a challenge,’’ Rottkamp said.

The Jets are excited about their three returning starters in shooting guard Frank DeStefano, power forward Manjot Singh and

point guard Jayden Henriquez.

Though the Jets lost five guys from last season’s squad, their returning starters were regarded as their most talented players in 2021-22.

DeStefano averaged 15 points per game last season while Singh posted a double-double (10 points, 10 rebounds). Henriquez is the club’s floor general and gets the team into its offense with his high basketball IQ.

In addition, East Meadow boasts an intriguing sophomore center in Iziah Richards and a talented small forward in Mazin Ibrihim, who is fast and slashes to the rim.

The reserves include senior swingman Eric Whitehurst and senior guard Dominick Squiciarino. Others who could be in the rotation are power forward Brian Surless, guard Jared Schary, guard Shawn Haber and small forward Nabeel Sheikh.

The 2021-22 boys’ campaign was a disappointment for the Jets but things are looking a little brighter.

Conference opponents for the Jets are defending county and Long Island champion Baldwin, runner-up Plainview, Port Washington, Oceanside, Valley Stream Central, Westbury and Herricks.

East Meadow’s playoff push last season included a come-frombehind win over Westbury as well as a victory over VSC in the regular-season finale. Henriquez had 17 points in that big win over Westbury, Singh added 16 and DeStefano 13.

EAST MEADOW SEEKS HIGH SEED

East Meadow’s girls’ team lost its star point guard to graduation, but have no fear. Allie Twible is here.

The major loss from last season’s 10-7 playoff squad was starting point guard Lindsay Solenski, who averaged 17 points. She’s

now at Adelphi playing college lacrosse.

It would’ve been a major gap to fill, but the Jets are getting back Twible, returning for her sophomore campaign. Twible played for East Meadow in eighth grade before transferring to Holy Trinity last season.

getting back Twible, returning for to Holy Trinity last season. be one of the better players

“Without a doubt, she’ll be one of the better players in the conference,’’ East Meadow head coach Peter Olenik said.

Peter it

Even better news is Olenik returns four starters from last season’s club, making it a mortal lock for its ninth straight Class AA playoff berth. Nobody would be surprised if East Meadow places second behind superpower Baldwin.

“Baldwin is Baldwin,’’ Olenik said. “They’re one of the best teams in the state, never mind just Nassau County. I don’t see us being as good as they are, but I do see us making the playoffs and getting a pretty decent seed.’’ The Jets are stacked at guard and will use a three-guard starting alignment. “Sometimes four,’’ Olenik said.

Of the returning starters, junior shooting guard Charlotte Viola is the standout. She’s a sweet shooter and, as Olenik says, “a good all-around basketball player who can play a little point.’’

“I’m expecting big things out of her,’’ Olenik added. “She was All-Conference last year and I see her as All-County this year.’’ Junior Brook Vislocki is the third guard. The frontcourt is manned by its tallest player, 5-foot-9, Emily Forrler, and senior forward Isabella Pota.

said. “I don’t see us being less than 4.’’

Schedule BOYS

December

14 Plainview 7:00 p.m. 17 Herricks 12:00 p.m. 21 @ Westbury 7:00 p.m.

January

3 Oceanside 7:00 p.m. 6 @ V.S. Central 7:00 p.m. 11 Port Washington 7:00 p.m. 14 @ Baldwin 12:00 p.m.

@ Plainview 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Herricks 7:00 p.m. 28 Westbury 12:00 p.m. 31 @ Oceanside 7:00 p.m.

February

3 V.S. Central 7:00 p.m. 8 @ Port Washington 7:00 p.m. 11 Baldwin 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

14 @ Plainview 6:45 p.m. 17 @ Herricks 12:00 p.m. 21 Westbury 7:00 p.m.

January

3 @ Oceanside 7:00 p.m. 6 V.S. Central 7:00 p.m. 11 @ Port Washington 7:00 p.m. 14 Baldwin 12:00 p.m. 17 Plainview 7:00 p.m. 20 Herricks 7:00 p.m. 28 @ Westbury 12:00 p.m. 31 Oceanside 7:00 p.m.

February

not its long bench. But the starting

Keziah Philip will come in to provide a four-guard attack. However, this squad’s strength is not its long bench. But the starting quintet could be dangerous. “We could be 2, 3 or 4 seed,’’ Olenik

3 @ V.S. Central 7:00 p.m. 8 Port Washington 7:00 p.m. 11 @ Baldwin 12:00 p.m.

Photos by Paul Grassini

Jayden Henriquez

Charlotte Viola

EAST ROCKAWAY

Health key to Rocks turnaround

By BRIAN KACHARABA

Collins is optimistic about his team this season, noting that the boys are quickly grasping his system while displaying good chemistry on and off the court.

Covid ravaged East Rockaway boys’ basketball season in 202122 and the result was a forgettable 2-17 record. But the Rocks are ready to put that campaign in the rearview mirror and focus on a team that, when healthy, could be a playoff contender in a competitive Class B.

A season-opening six game losing streak featured two games 12 days apart because of the disease, which caused another lengthy gameless drought from Dec. 28 and Jan. 12.

“We never got our footing,” head coach Paul Collins said. “We were in a lot of games, but we could never get over that hump that we wanted to. I went through two weeks with only four players.”

“The speed that we’re getting up and down the court has been very good,” Collins said. “Overall, the chemistry of the team is ridiculous.”

Senior Tyler Hyland averaged 12.4 ppg last season – bolstered by his 23-point performance against Oyster Bay on Feb. 5 – and could again be the team’s leading scorer.

“He definitely looks for the shot a lot more,” Collins said. “I need him driving and get to the line, therefore he would open himself up to the outside and [those] shots will be a little more open.”

Chris Vertuccio is dependable at both ends of the court and he and fellow senior Colin Sharkey will be the key rebounders. Athletic senior John Gionatti is a vocal leader who can get a big basket at the most opportune time.

Pat McLaughlin completes the Rocks’ three-guard set and always shows aggression on the court and Collins has been pleased with the high basketball IQ and improved shooting of junior twins Nick and Kyle Pollakov.

with the high basketball IQ of junior twins Nick and Malverne, Wheatley,

A new-look Class B includes Malverne, Wheatley, Seaford and Carle Place.

EAST ROCKAWAY’S YOUTH MOVEMENT

East Rockaway’s girls’ team, a playoff semifinalist last winter, will be noticeably younger after seven seniors graduated, two decided to pursue other interests and two others suffered injuries that will likely sideline them for the season. That shrunk

ated, two decided to pursue other interests injuries likely sideline them

with

possibility

the roster to 11 players, with more than half of them being JV callups. But if the underclassmen-laden roster gels quicker than expected, a return to the postseason could again be a real possibility in the four-team Conference B2.

“I definitely think it’s going to be a learning process with the remaining group,” head coach Cheri Poland said. “I have six JV players that are coming up that are really solid athletes, but basketballwise, they’re new to the game. But I am hopeful.”

remaining group,” head coach Cheri Poland said. “I have six JV that really athletes, and freshman Maya Motherway are the returning

Poland

eight points a game last year and her 6-foot frame makes her effective on defense, while Motherway potential four double-digit

Junior Emma Poland and freshman Maya Motherway are the top returning players and will likely be the team’s biggest offensive threats. Poland averaged around eight points a game last year and her 6-foot frame makes her effective on defense, while Motherway flashed her potential with four double-digit point games, including a 14-point five-assist effort off the bench in a win over Malverne on Jan. 4.

BOYS

December 14 Seaford 7:00 p.m.

put the team on their back,” coach

“They have experience and are ready to come back and really put the team on their back,” coach Poland said of the pair.

After that, Poland is hoping that a new group of sophomores can make an immediate impact the way Motherway did. Six-footer Sophia Pappas and Nora Rose are both athletic and likely to be in rotation and Sofia Tizio is a dependable outside shooter who could be a big presence in the lineup as she hones her defensive skills.

Speedy Nicole Buzzetta and Erin Lynch provide depth at guard and Ashley Wilkerson plays like her older sister Natalia – a senior on the team – as both use their height on the glass.

Defending county and L.I. champion Locust Valley heads the list of Rocks’ rivals.

January

West Hempstead 7:00 p.m.

@ Locust Valley 7:00 p.m.

@ C.S. Harbor 7:00 p.m.

Wheatley 7:00 p.m.

Malverne 6:30 p.m.

@ Seaford 7:00 p.m.

Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m.

February

3 @ West Hempstead 5:00 p.m.

@ Malverne 7:00 p.m.

Carle Place 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

14 @ Seaford 7:00 p.m.

C.S. Harbor 7:00 p.m.

January

3 @ West Hempstead 7:00 p.m.

Locust Valley 7:00 p.m.

@ Wheatley 7:00 p.m.

@ Malverne 6:30 p.m.

Seaford 7:00 p.m.

@ Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m.

February

3 West Hempstead 7:00 p.m. 8 Malverne 7:00 p.m. 11 @ Carle Place 12:00 p.m.

Tyler Hyland

Photos by Sue Grieco

Emma Poland

ELMONT

Spartans bank on experience

By ANDREW COEN

Elmont is looking to build on last year’s rebounding season that fell two wins shy of reaching the Nassau Class A boys’ basketball playoffs with an experienced team back in the fold.

The Spartans return nine players from last season’s young team that finished 4-8 in Conference A-2 and stayed in postseason contention down the stretch with

several close losses.

Third-year head coach Ryan Straub is hoping the experience gained from last year’s team of newcomers plays dividends and propels the team into the playoffs, which can be achieved with a .500 or better record in Conference A-2.

“It’s exciting because they were all new to varsity basketball last year so they got a year under their belt,” Straub said. “Now I think they’re ready to be a little more competitive.”

Senior 6-foot-1 guard Girell Frias-Walsh brings length and energy to the floor along with being the Spartans’ top defender. Straub said Frias-Walsh has developed an improved perimeter shot in the offseason, which complements his athletic skills to slash to the basket and will keep defenses on their toes.

toes. with inside to make outside shots. Elmont has a host of shooters that will be threats from three-point range as

Junior 6-6 forward Osagie Ekhator brings versatility with a strong inside game and the ability to make outside shots. Elmont has a host of shooters that will be threats from three-point range including senior twins Joshua Pfifer and Nathan Pfifer as well as junior Cassius Moore.

seniors including the program’s backcourt duo the previous four years in Rae Sawyer and Kelliane Watkins. While Elmont returns seven seniors, playing time was limited last year on a veteran team. “Even though the team is seniorladen, they haven’t gotten as much exposure as they should have the last couple years,” second-year head coach Pete Lawson said.

years in Rae Sawyer and Kelliane laden, they haven’t gotten as the versatile Farquharson,

No full-time starters are back, but senior Taylah Farquharson did start a few games when the team was faced with injuries. Lawson said the versatile Farquharson, who can be slotted in any position, is motivated to have a big senior season and has stepped up as a major team leader.

Chi Chi Chikuezi and Aryanna Pierre also return for larger roles this season after receiving valuable minutes off the bench last winter. Rehnya Fletcher is also back and will be counted on as a key defensive player while Charlotte Hines and Cassidy Grannum will also have increased roles.

Schedule BOYS

December

13 G.N. North 5:00 p.m. 16 @ Sewanhaka 7:00 p.m. 20 Kennedy 5:00 p.m.

January

Starting point guard Gemere Frias-Walsh, brother of Girell, en-

Starting point guard Gemere Frias-Walsh, brother of Girell, entered the new season sidelined with an injury but Lawson hopes to have back soon to lead Elmont’s up-tempo offense. Senior Jaylen Thybulle and sophomore Arlyn Brown are also capable guards who can provide valuable minutes.

“We are much improved and we learned so much from last year and I think we can make a little bit of noise,” Straub said. “We play fast, we play tough and we’re also pretty deep.”

Returning to the postseason is a chief goal for the Spartans, who went 8-4 in Conference A-II last year and defeated New Hyde Park 63-49 in the first round of the Class A playoffs. The league features Garden City, Glen Cove, Sewanhaka, Roslyn, South Side, Bellmore JFK and Great Neck North.

Entering his second season on the varsity bench, Lawson is encouraged by the attitude of his players at practice.

3 @ Garden City 6:45 p.m. 7 Roslyn 10:00 a.m. 10 @ South Side 7:00 p.m. 16 @ G.N. North 5:00 p.m. 21 Sewanhaka 10:00 a.m. 26 @ Kennedy 7:00 p.m.

February

1 Garden City 5:00 p.m. 4 @ Roslyn 12:00 p.m.

7 South Side 5:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 @ G.N. North 5:00 p.m. 15 Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m.

20 @ Kennedy 7:00 p.m.

January

4 Garden City 5:00 p.m.

6 @ Roslyn 7:00 p.m.

10 South Side 5:00 p.m.

ELMONT RETOOLS

ELMONT RETOOLS AFTER DEPARTURES

Elmont girls lost plenty of firepower from last season’s team that reached the round of 16 stage in the Class A playoffs.

in the Class A playoffs. Spartans

The Spartans graduated seven

“This team is showing me early on that they are going to compete for their coach,” said Lawson, who coached many of the girls on the JV squad prior to assuming the head coaching role last year. “When they buy into that mindset it gives you a lot of optimism.”

18 G.N. North 5:00 p.m.

21 @ Sewanhaka 12:00 p.m. 27 Kennedy 5:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Garden City 5:00 p.m.

4 Roslyn 10:00 a.m.

7 @ South Side 7:00 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

TGirell Frias-Walsh

Taylah Farquharson

Helping immigrants become a vital part of tHe community

By DAVID WEINGRAD

FREEPORT

Some growing pains were to be expected for a rebuilding Red Devils boys’ basketball squad whose starting lineup comprised all underclassmen one year ago, but early signs in camp this season show they may be ready to take the next step in Conference AA-1.

Head coach Larry Steimer expressed optimism his youthful squad has shown tremendous growth already. They’ll be led by returning All-Conference senior

Jadan Threat, an athletic guard with unique scoring ability who will be the focal point of the offense.

Alongside him leading the offense will be junior Elijah Darby, a 6-foot-7 center who Steimer feels still hasn’t even hit his ceiling in terms of offensive capability.

The team will get a boost from newly transferred junior Jaylen Jean-Louis, who is expected to make an immediate impact as a flexible player who can fill in at multiple positions.

transfer gives Freeport even more weapons to stifle its Conference AA-1 opponents.

“We feel like we’re coming back stronger,” head coach Meredith Jones said.

Senior captain Anayah Lloyd will be the focal point of the offense and is fully recovered from a torn ACL. Her coach lauded her leadership abilities paired with a strong court sense and plus defensive skills. “She’s the one you want running your show,” said Jones.

Co-captain Taneece Wooden is another senior returning to full strength from injury. “A quadruple threat,” as described by Jones, the 6-footer can score in the post, drive to the hoop and drain the outside shot.

team’s best on-the-ball defender.

Jayden Gordon started at guard last year as a freshman, a speedy player and one of the team’s best defenders with great court vision. And seniors Jared Henry, Dafe Omokeni, Donald Darby and Isaiah Curtis will also see some solid minutes this season with a chance to contribute, with Curtis hailed by Steimer as the team’s best on-the-ball defender.

Steimer said he was pleased with the dedication his team showed over the summer to improve as a unit, and he expects that their lack of overall size will be offset by their speed and transition game, and turning defense into offense.

Offense will also come from junior Ania Crocker, who averaged 15 points per game last year, earning her All-County, and is expected to be a factor on both sides of the court again this year.

December

14 @ Uniondale 5:00 p.m. 17 Hicksville 12:00 p.m. 22 Massapequa 7:00 p.m.

January

Despite a down season last year, many of the games were competitive and Steimer expects an extra year of experience will help his kids finish tight games, especially on the defensive side.

“We saw something there last year,” he said. “We have a good mix and have some talented underclassmen. Hopefully the future looks bright for the Red Devils.”

Despite a down season last “We saw something there Devils.”

HIGH HOPES FOR FREEPORT

Key additions include junior Nia Phillips, who transferred from Farmingdale and has the potential to crack the starting lineup, and junior Star Asia Gaines, who Jones said is strongly motivated this season after missing most of last year.

Two guards expected to contribute are senior Zaria Chaplain and junior Queenasha Ellis, and one to keep an eye on is eighth grader Sabrina Ligonde, who will receive valuable experience this year and could follow in Jones’s footsteps as a budding star.

3 @ Hempstead 7:00 p.m. 6 Syosset 7:00 p.m. 17 Uniondale 5:00 p.m. 20 Hicksville 5:00 p.m. 28 @ Massapequa 12:00 p.m.

February

3 @ Syosset 5:00 p.m. 6 @ Farmingdale 5:00 p.m. 11 Farmingdale 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

14 Uniondale 7:00 p.m. 21 @ Massapequa 7:00 p.m. 22 @ Hicksville 4:30 p.m.

January

be

A Red Devils team that made a run to the Nassau Class AA girls’ quarterfinals last season will be adding more reinforcements for a potential deeper push.

While the team lost two starters to graduation, a mix of players returning to full health plus a new

Defense will remain the priority for Jones’s squad, but she excitedly noted this may be the best shooting team she’s ever had. “The girls are hungry to go further than any of my teams have gone before,” said the coach.

3 Hempstead 5:00 p.m. 7 @ Syosset 10:00 a.m. 14 Farmingdale 12:00 p.m. 17 @ Uniondale 5:00 p.m. 20 Hicksville 7:00 p.m. 28 Massapequa 12:00 p.m. 31 @ Hempstead 7:00 p.m.

February

2 Syosset 7:00 p.m.

11 @ Farmingdale 12:00 p.m.

20 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

Jadan Threat

Schedule BOYS

HEWLETT

Bulldogs a work in progress

By TONY BELLISSIMO

The Bulldogs lack starting experience at the varsity level and will rely on dialing up the offensive pace and playing sound defense to make a run for their 18th playoff appearance in the last 19 seasons.

Hewlett comes off a 14-win campaign and eliminated Wantagh and Roslyn in the Nassau Class A playoffs before falling to Garden City in the quarterfinals.

“We’re a work in progress and the good news is we have nine non-league games before our conference opener,” head coach Bill Dubin said. “We lost all of our

starters and bring back a part-time starter and our sixth man. Making the playoffs is always the goal and that’ll never change. Once you get in anything can happen.”

The offense will be in the hands of senior point guard Matteo Preziosi, who like much of the roster is unproven but showing plenty of ability to get the job done. “He’s a leader on the court and I think he can handle the pressure that comes with the position,” Dubin said. “He can shoot, drive and distribute.”

Junior forward Luke Rochler has some starts and plenty of floor time under his belt. “He’s a tough and physical kid who will dive after loose balls and fight for rebounds and get some putback points,” Dubin said.

returnees with significant starting experience. Replacing the nearly 50 points per game lost with the departure of two-time county scoring leader Riley Weiss, who relocated to Florida, and since-graduated Molly Williams, will be a collective effort, head coach Anthony Scro said.

“We lost Riley a year earlier than expected and we’re looking forward to the challenge of getting back to the playoffs,” Scro said. “We wish her all the best. Our program wouldn’t be where it is without her.”

Hewlett will need to finish .500 or better to keep its playoff streak going. Its conference consists of Manhasset, Division, Carey, Roosevelt and Glen Cove.

sophomore Isaiah Pierre can be impactful in the paint.

Also up front, junior Zaine Branch is an athletic center who can make thins happen in transition. Junior Dylan Shatz and sophomore Isaiah Pierre can be impactful in the paint. Brand new to the program, junior forward Nick Paris can handle the ball and get to the basket. He’s in the mix to start, Dubin said.

“Last season was the best we’ve had in recent memory and I still think we’re a playoff team,” Scro said. “We’re not going to score like we did, but our defense and depth should help us wear some opponents down.”

Senior Emily Erdos runs the offense from the point, passes and shoots well and is smart defensively. “Emily’s a third-year varsity player and a leader on and off the court,” Scro said. “She has great court awareness.”

Schedule BOYS

January

4 Glen Cove 7:00 p.m.

Senior Jace Apter has starting experience and can contribute at forward and guard. Sophomore Justin Ogilvie was one of the leaders for a strong JV squad last season and projects as the starting two-guard. Senior Adam Dam can provide an offensive spark.

a strong JV squad last

BALANCE A KEY FOR HEWLETT

Junior forward Brianna Ruta earned All-Conference honors last season and is a physical player who’ll provide tough defense and rebounding, Scro said. Senior forward Jordyn Ziarno is selfless and scrappy, the coach noted, and always looking to do whatever it takes to help the team.

7 Manhasset 12:00 p.m. 10 @ Roosevelt 5:00 p.m. 13 @ Carey 5:00 p.m. 18 Division 7:00 p.m. 21 @ Division 12:00 p.m. 27 Carey 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Glen Cove 7:00 p.m. 4 @ Manhasset 12:00 p.m. 7 Roosevelt 5:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

Also twins

Fresh off a 14-win season that included a thrilling victory over Wantagh in the first round of the Nassau Class A girls’ basketball playoffs, the Bulldogs have their work cut out but four

included a of the Nassau Class A girls’ Bulldogs

Also returning are junior twins Catie and Marcie Iannico. They’re guard/forward types with shooting and rebounding ability. “Their soccer speed translates to basketball and we’ll be counting on them a lot,” said Scro, who also has junior Izzy Betencur, senior Leila Flores and sophomore Rachel Cafaro adding to a deep backcourt.

13 Manhasset 7:00 p.m. 16 @ Division 7:00 p.m. 20 Carey 7:00 p.m.

January

10 Roosevelt 5:00 p.m. 13 @ Glen Cove 7:00 p.m. 18 @ Manhasset 7:00 p.m. 21 Division 12:00 p.m. 27 @ Carey 5:00 p.m.

February

7 @ Roosevelt 5:00 p.m. 10 Glen Cove 7:00 p.m.

Photos by Eric Dunetz

Emily Erdos

Matteo Preziosi

By TONY BELLISSIMO

KENNEDY

Kennedy boys’ basketball enjoyed a fun start last season with wins in four straight non-league games out of the gate, but the competition in conference play proved difficult to navigate and the result was a 3-9 mark in such tests.

Rory Block, in his 31st season at the helm, says the Cougars have their work cut out again with a long list of contenders led by South Side, Garden City and Sewanhaka. Last season, Kennedy’s conference rivals included three of Nassau Class A’s semifinalists including eventual state champ Manhasset.

“Things are going pretty

well, we have seven returnees on varsity including six seniors,” Block said. “We graduated two awardwinners and those guys were also our leading scorers. The schedule is brutal and we’ll need to play solid defense, get rebounding from everyone and find ways to score.”

Senior Ben Mehani averaged nearly 10 points per game last winter and is the team’s most accomplished returnee. He’s a 6-foot-2 forward who can play any position. “He’s athletic and a good shooter who is being counted on to increase his production and might be forced to guard bigger kids,” Block said of the three-year varsity performer.

Another returning starter is senior center Alex Silva, who chipped in about 4 points and 5 rebounds per game. “We need Alex to rebound, make open shots and be a presence in the paint,” said Block, who added senior forward Liam Schillinger is another key to the frontcourt.

Junior point guard Leo Ferry will serve as one of the Cougars’ biggest offensive threats, Block said. Ferry has a high basketball IQ, three-point range and a good handle. He’ll be backed up by last season’s JV starting point guard Zach Cohen.

Senior Mike Wallace is expected to start at shooting guard, with seniors Vincent Dragonetti and Anthony Firriolo providing depth and bound to contribute. Dragonetti looms a perimeter threat and Firriolo is a strong defender.

KENNEDY BRACING FOR CLOSE GAMES

Competing in arguably the most competitive girls’ basketball conference in the county a season ago, guard-oriented Kennedy fell short of qualifying for the playoffs with a 4-8 mark.

tion of size and athleticism to serve as the Cougars’ theme as it takes on a noteworthy group of conference rivals that includes perennial playoff participants South Side, Sewanhaka and Elmont.

“I’m expecting a lot of tight games and I’m confident we can be a playoff team,” Freely said. “We have some exciting multisport athletes who are jelling nicely so far. We’re usually a fastbreak, outside-shooting team, but we’re going to be using our size more often.”

One of Kennedy’s post players is senior captain Gianna Costaro, a D-1 softball talent who Freely is counting on to score and rebound in double digits every night. “She has a beautiful shot and is one of our best rebounders and defenders,” the coach said of the fourth-year varsity player. “She’s a vocal leader and brings energy.”

Sophomore center Ashley St. Surin has developed some strong moves under the basket and is bound to benefit from last winter’s experience at the varsity level. The same goes for sophomore point guard Jolie Yablon, an accurate distributor and defensive catalyst when the Cougars press, and sophomore forward Tristan Montalbano, a key in transition.

Senior Brooke Horowitz is a captain stepping into the starting shooting guard role after providing a spark off the bench last season. She’s an outside threat and will get some of the tougher defensive assignments. “She learned a lot over the years and is quick and poised,” Freely said.

Schedule BOYS

December

13 Sewanhaka 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Elmont 5:00 p.m.

January

5 G.N. North 7:00 p.m. 7 @ South Side 12:00 p.m. 10 Garden City 7:00 p.m. 13 @ Roslyn 7:00 p.m. 18 @ Sewanhaka 5:00 p.m. 26 Elmont 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ G.N. North 5:00 p.m. 3 South Side 4:30 p.m. 7 @ Garden City 6:45 p.m. 10 Roslyn 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 @ Sewanhaka 5:00 p.m. 20 Elmont 7:00 p.m.

January

Ben Mehani

With a return to the postseason in mind, head coach Mallory Freely is banking on a combina-

Juniors Sophia Fischetti and Gianna Gampero bolster the backcourt and frontcourt, respectively. Fischetti provides many intangibles, such as in-bound plays and setting screens, and Gampero is tenacious in the paint.

4 @ G.N. North 5:00 p.m. 7 South Side 12:00 p.m. 10 @ Garden City 5:00 p.m. 13 Roslyn 7:00 p.m. 18 Sewanhaka 7:00 p.m. 27 @ Elmont 5:00 p.m.

February

1 G.N. North 7:00 p.m.

4 @ South Side 12:00 p.m.

7 Garden City 7:00 p.m. 9 @ Roslyn 7:00 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

She’s an outside threat and will get

24 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

LAWRENCE

Golden Tornadoes seek playoff return

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Lawrence didn’t finish with a memorable record last winter, going 3-7 in conference games, but avenged a pair of regular-season defeats with a Class A playoff upset of North Shore for a signature win.

North Shore is one of the Golden Tornadoes’ six conference rivals for 2022-23 along with state Class B finalist Friends Academy, Clarke, Academy Charter, Island Trees and Valley Stream South.

I think it’s pretty wide open. We have five kids returning, including three starters, and need someone to step up and be a leader.”

Lawrence will bring balance and versatility, Robinson said. “We can go big with a half-court offense or go five guards and play fast,” he noted.

LAWRENCE AIMS FOR IMPROVEMENT

There’s about to be an all-time leading scorer for Lawrence’s girls’ basketball program.

Senior point guard Andie Adams, who late last season reached the 1,000-point plateau, is 46 points away from breaking 1999 graduate Danielle Moorer’s record of 1,049 career points. Adams earned All-County honors last season and averaged 23.5 points per game.

“We have some good pieces and our goal is to get back to the playoffs,” head coach Lou Robinson said. “Friends is the conference favorite but after that

Third-year starting guard Tyler Bowers is sure to keep defenses from employing a zone too long. He twice hit six three-pointers in a game last season on the way to earning All-Conference honors and will be counted on to produce double digits in points.

conference favorite but after that

Junior Avery Folawiyo also returns to the backcourt and is a student of the sport who plays year-round. He can run the point and also contribute as a power forward. “He’ll have a big defensive impact and scoring will come,”

“Andie is such a huge presence on the court,” first-year coach Katie Dascher said. “She’s very talented and leads by example. She’s our most consistent player and handles pressure well. She’s a strong dribbler and someone who can drive and shoot.”

the defensive effort from the backcourt. “She’s a hungry and strong defender who anticipates well and can force turnovers,” Dascher said.

Senior guard Kaitlyn Walsh is a multisport athlete who brings a tremendous work ethic and reliability, and junior Sofia Jimenez, up from JV, is in the mix to start at forward thanks to her aggressiveness on the boards.

Senior forward Dexter Robinson averaged nearly a doubledouble in an All-Conference campaign. He’s 6-foot-4, and classmate Marquez

Dascher, who previously served as an assistant at Valley Stream North, is looking for the Golden Tornadoes to surpass last season’s win total of two. “We’re hoping to be better,” she said.

Schedule BOYS

December

13 @ Island Trees 5:00 p.m.

Martin is 6-7. Both starred for the volleyball team. Martin has improved his athleticism and appears ready for a bigger role on the hardwood, the coach said.

improved his athleticism and apthe offense. A strong camp has Ben to contribute at both ends

Senior guards Jordan Gardana and Stephon Caraballo bring experience and the ability to spark the offense. A strong camp has Gardana cracking the starting five. Up from JV, sophomore forwards Ben Perez and Nahmire Young are expected to contribute at both ends of the floor.

Robinson said. of the floor.

basics and building confidence. We

“There’s a lot of moving pieces. We’re breaking it back down to basics and building confidence. We have potential to grow and we’re going to play competitive games.”

Adams and senior center Daniela De la Cruz are the tallest players on the roster and vital returning starters. De la Cruz is tough and aggressive in the paint who sees the court well. “We’re looking to get Daniela open in the post and get some offense that way.”

Senior Ambrasia Frye has varsity experience and will contribute in the backcourt, most likely as a starter. She’s an outside threat who’ll look to take advantage of defenses when Adams draws double coverage, Dascher said.

Sophomore Heather McHale is one of the youngest on the roster and someone who’ll lead

16 Clarke 7:00 p.m. 20 @ V.S. South 5:00 p.m.

January

4 Friends Academy 7:00 p.m. 10 @ North Shore 7:00 p.m. 13 Academy Charter 7:00 p.m. 18 Island Trees 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Clarke 7:00 p.m.

27 V.S. South 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Friends Academy 7:00 p.m.

7 North Shore 7:00 p.m.

10 @ Academy Charter 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 Island Trees 7:00 p.m.

16 @ Clarke 7:00 p.m.

20 V.S. South 7:00 p.m.

January

4 @ Friends Academy 5:30 p.m.

9 North Shore 7:00 p.m.

18 @ Island Trees 7:00 p.m. 21 Clarke 12:00 p.m. 27 @ V.S. South 5:00 p.m.

February

1 Friends Academy 7:00 p.m.

6 @ North Shore 7:15 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

Daniela De la Cruz

Tyler Bowers

2022-23 BOYS HEAD COACHES

DARIUS BURTON - Baldwin

JAY KREUTZBERGER - Calhoun

DAN REECE - Carey

JOE HASBROUCK - Clarke TOM ROTTKAMP - East Meadow

PAUL COLLINS - East Rockaway

RYAN STRAUB - Elmont

LARRY STEIMER - Freeport

BILL DUBIN - Hewlett

RORY BLOCK - Kennedy

LOU ROBINSON - Lawrence

SCOTT MARTIN - Long Beach

JAMIE ADAMS - Lynbrook

BRIAN MAINI - MacArthur DARROLL LOPEZ - Malverne

ED RISENER - Oceanside

RALPH ROSSETTI - Seaford

JASON ALLEN - Sewanhaka

JERRY D’ANGELO - South Side MIKE WIMMER - V.S. Central

MICHAEL MCVEIGH - V.S. North

MATT SIMEONE - Wantagh

ERIC RUBIN - West Hempstead

BOB KAIBLE - Mepham

MIKE O’BRIEN - V.S. South

2022-23 GIRLS HEAD COACHES

TOM CATAPANO - Baldwin

DAN CATAPANO - Calhoun

ANTHONY TURCO - Carey SHAUN FEAN - Clarke

PETE OLENIK - East Meadow

CHERI POLAND - East Rockaway

PETE LAWSON - Elmont MEREDITH JONES - Freeport

ANTHONY SCRO - Hewlett

MALLORY FREELY - Kennedy

KATIE DASCHER - Lawrence KRISTIN CICCONE - Long Beach

STEVE LOCICERO - Lynbrook

DAVE RADTKE - MacArthur

AMANDA MASSON - Malverne

JIM MULVEY - Mepham

JARED STOLER - Oceanside

STEPHANIE BARTKUS - Seaford

ALEX SOUPIOS - Sewanhaka

DAN FERRICK - South Side

MALYSSA THORNGREN - VS Central

GEORGE KARAHALIOS

DOMINIQUE SERPICO - V.S. South

STAN BUJACICH - Wantagh

CHRIS VAN KOVICS - West Hempstead

By VINCENT MATULA

LONG BEACH

For the last two seasons, Long Beach boys’ basketball has qualified for the Class A-1 playoffs. After a third-place finish and their second straight first-round exit, the Marines are highly motivated to compete for a conference title in 2022-23.

Long Beach features a roster of 14, with six being seniors. That group is led by All-Conference selection Jack Shields and Jeff Conway. Shields averaged just over 11 points per game and had 38 three’s last season while Conway brings his own leadership qualities after serving as the semifinalist football team’s quarterback.

options offensively,” head coach Scott Martin said. “Conway is more of a follow by example type of leader.”

The Marines will look to use a strong group of depth coming up from JV to their advantage. Players like Blake Salice Mitchell, Cameron Graham, who has amazed Martin with his athleticism in scrimmages, and Chris Rodriguez are some names in particular poised to make their presence felt.

A new name to watch is Federico Manarin. The senior is a transfer exchange student from Italy and is ready to make an impact in North America. “He’s a good addition because he knows how to play and he’s been training for a while,” Martin said.

“Shields gives us a lot of Third-year varsity perform-

Third-year varsity performers Blake Bernstein and starting point guard Mike Main headline a strong junior group. Main, an All-Conference selection, averaged nine points in 2021-22 and led the Marines in assists at 3.5 per game.

nine points in 2021-22 and led the

Long Beach will look to carry its strong defensive effort from last season and convert on foul shots to bolster their chances of

winning the conference as six of their 11 losses were within two

“With a lot of these athletes and young players from JV coming up, we feel that we can make a push for the championship,”

LONG BEACH SEEKS

As for the Long Beach girls, they’ll look to return to the postseason after finishing with a 5-12 record in 2021-22. The team

girls, they’ll look to return to the postseason

dropped eight of its first nine contests, so a strong start this winter is crucial.

A good portion of the rostered players are underclassmen, however all enter the season with prior experience from JV or competing on last year’s varsity.

dropped eight of its first nine however all enter the season with prior experience from provide a youthful spark. All three

A trio of sophomore guards in Reagan McCarthy, Delaney Chernoff, and Franky DeCicco, who averaged just over 12 points per game, are returning for year two and will look to provide a youthful spark. All three players share similar skills that will make it a headache for the opposition to defend against.

“All my guards are tall and fast,” head coach Kristin Ciccone

“All my guards are tall and fast,” head coach Kristin Ciccone said. “It’s going to be really hard for opponents to guard them.”

Junior Ava Main, a lacrosse standout, is a returning starter and slasher. She’s qucik and one of the team’s top defenders, Ciccone said.

Schedule BOYS

December

12 @ Mepham 7:00 p.m. 16 G.N. South 5:00 p.m. 20 Jericho 5:00 p.m.

Fabiana Boncina, and Jess Vobis all look to make an impact. Despite its

Five juniors will make the jump from JV as Ella Timperio, Emma Larson, Kiera Lawson, Fabiana Boncina, and Jess Vobis all look to make an impact. Despite its young group, the confidence is still high that this team can win games.

“We’re very young again, but I know by the end of the season we’re going to be winning some big time games,” Ciccone said.

January

4 @ Calhoun 7:00 p.m. 7 MacArthur 12:00 p.m. 13 @ New Hyde Park 5:00 p.m. 18 Mepham 5:00 p.m. 21 @ G.N. South 12:00 p.m. 27 @ Jericho 7:00 p.m.

February

1 Calhoun 5:00 p.m.

4 @ MacArthur 12:00 p.m.

10 New Hyde Park 5:00 p.m.

GIRLS

and Shamia Williamson are looking

Just two seniors will lace up for the Marines as Hailey Brandt and Shamia Williamson are looking to do contribute plenty in their last dance. “They definitely want to do something special in their senior year,” Ciccone said.

The Marines find themselves in A-1, a strong conference that features Calhoun, Great Neck South, MacArthur, Mepham, and New Hyde Park.

“We might not get the ball in the basket as often, but I think we can outplay teams with hustle and heart,” Ciccone said.

December

13 Mepham 7:00 p.m.

16 @ G.N. South 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Jericho 7:00 p.m.

January

4 Calhoun 7:00 p.m.

7 @ MacArthur 12:00 p.m.

13 New Hyde Park 7:00 p.m. 18 @ Mepham 7:00 p.m. 21 G.N. South 12:00 p.m. 27 Jericho 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Calhoun 7:00 p.m.

3 MacArthur 5:00 p.m.

10 @ New Hyde Park 5:00 p.m.

Photos by Eric Dunetz

30 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

Mike Main

team’s top defenders, Ciccone said.

LYNBROOK

Guard-oriented Owls reload

By MARC BERMAN

So what will Lynbrook’s boys’ basketball team do for an encore?

“We really haven’t had a rebuilding year in a while,’’ head coach Jamie Adams said. “We reload.’’

Last season, Lynbrook was a terror, armed with two 6-foot-5 bookends in All-County center Haris Cekic and power forward Richard Correa-Lampasona. It was one of the best defensive teams in the county.

The Owls posted a 15-5 record, making the Class A playoffs, though it was put into the 8-9 seed game and lost to Valley Stream North.

Though the style will change in 2022-23, Adams feels the Owls

can be just as powerful despite losing six players, including three starters. Cekic and Correa-Lampasona are gone but Lynbrook will now be a faster-paced, guardoriented team.

Senior guard Eli ShermanMurphy, an All-County player who averaged 14 points last season, will return and is being shifted from point guard to shooting guard. Murphy is an inside-outside menace, excellent at getting to the basket while having a 3-point shot, too.

But he will play less on the ball because senior Ryan Shapiro will be moved into the starting lineup as point guard. Shapiro came off the bench last season but did not get many minutes. He’s had an extreme makeover in getting much stronger after a season of football.

Shapiro is a pass-first guard and key to success. “He looks like Clark Kent but plays like Super-

held a dual role of head football and girls basketball coach but resigned before this season to concentrate soley on the hoops.

Perhaps that’s why he seems super pumped about this season. That and the notion he has 8 of 9 players back from a team that went 14-7, upset No. 1 seed Manhasset in the playoffs to get to Hofstra, where it lost in the semifinals.

LoCicero, looking for his 100th career win (91-45), is reaching high. “This team could win everything - Long Island championship, New York State championship,’’ he said. “This is the best team I’ve coached since 2017 which won the conference championship.’’

The squad is led by point guard Kaelynn O’Brien, a top talent. But the coach won’t single anyone out because of the depth.

man,’’ Adams said.

Sean O’Donovan is the third guard. He averaged 8.8 points last season. The coaches are still designing the rest of the starting lineup and could go 11 deep.

Clark Kent but plays like Superlineup and could go 11 deep.

Junior forward Max Cordes is a favorite to start – a good 3-point shooter who defends well. Center

good

well. Center Will Krapf is a

Will Krapf is a new-age center – capable of shooting the 3. Brian Sugrue is another contender.

Brian Sugrue is another contender.

Adams is also excited because he’s got three guys from JV he feels bodes well for the future –Timothy Mingo, Dylon Stanley and

Amah Agwu. LYNBROOK HAS EYES ON PRIZE

The girls may compete for the whole enchilada in Nassau Class A as head coach Steve LoCicero can focus fully on roundball.

The last nine years, LoCicero

Asked who is standout player is, LoCicero said, “I don’t have one. I have girls who legitimately can play basketball. That’s the reason we’re so difficult to guard. On any given night, you’ll have a girl with 15 [points] and the next night another girl with 15.”

is, LoCicero said, “I don’t have one.

Schedule BOYS

December

13 Wantagh 7:00 p.m. 20 @ V.S. North 7:00 p.m.

January

He also likes the striving-forperfection vibe. After beating Long Beach in a non-league, LoCicero claimed, “They asked if we could have a 6 a.m. practice.’’

O’Brien switches to point guard to replace the lone graduate, Kyla Nembach (Division II Mercy). The rest of the starting five includes Caityblu Cavassa, Brooke Mazzei, Cate Jennings, and Tyla Vuotto.

Other returnees are Jesse Bodian and Mackenzie Casey, who will come off the bench. Two newcomers who will add unprecedented depth are sophomores Kate Benedict, a transfer, and Sophia Dwyer.

4 Bethpage 7:00 p.m. 7 @ Mineola 12:00 p.m. 10 Floral Park 7:00 p.m. 13 @ Plainedge 5:00 p.m. 18 @ Wantagh 7:00 p.m. 27 V.S. North 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Bethpage 5:00 p.m. 4 Mineola 2:00 p.m. 7 @ Floral Park 5:00 p.m. 10 Plainedge 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 @ Wantagh 5:00 p.m. 19 V.S. North 5:00 p.m.

January

4 @ Bethpage 5:00 p.m. 7 Mineola 12:00 p.m. 10 @ Floral Park 5:00 p.m. 13 Plainedge 5:00 p.m. 18 Wantagh 5:00 p.m. 27 @ V.S. North 7:00 p.m.

February

1 Bethpage 5:00 p.m.

“We can do everything well — an inside game shoot the 3 and play great defense our speed and athleticism, ’’ LoCicero said.

— an inside game shoot the 3 and

4 @ Mineola 12:00 p.m. 7 Floral Park 5:00 p.m. 10 @ Plainedge 5:00 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

Eli Sherman-Murphy

Caityblu Cavassa

MacARTHUR

By ANDREW COEN

The MacArthur boys’ basketball enters the new season plenty fueled for success after just missing the playoffs last winter.

Needing a win in the regularseason finale to punch its ticket to the Class A playoff, MacArthur dropped a 46-44 heartbreaker to first-place New Hyde Park missing a three-pointer at the buzzer that would have won it.

“It’s like unfinished business,” said third-year head coach Brian Maini. “We’re going to try and build off some of the late success

we had last year.”

MacArthur brings back two starters in senior guards Sebastian Loor and Sonny D’Errico. Both have strong leadership capabilities as captains and were integral part of helping the Generals rebound from an 0-8 start to be in playoff contention down the stretch.

“They are the type of guys who lead by example,” said Maini of Loor and D’Errico. “They are two great kids who make everybody feel welcome.”

Maini also has high hopes for sophomore Mike Kondyra, a sharp shooter who had a big season on junior varsity as a freshman and grew to about 6-2 in the offseason.

HIGH HOPES FOR MACARTHUR

The MacArthur girls are gunning for a repeat conference title and more this winter.

Sonny D’Errico

Senior forward Patrick Cheswick also returns and should add some valuable minutes for the Generals in addition to showing strong character with his positive attitude and energy displayed in

perfect A-I and reached the county quarterfinals in the Class A playoffs that’s

The Generals bring back five seniors from last year’s team that dominated league play with a perfect 12-0 mark in Conference A-I and reached the county quarterfinals in the Class A playoffs “I think we’re better than we were last year,” ninth-year head coach Dave Radtke. “We definitely have more depth, that’s for sure.”

The deep team Radtke returns includes Marissa Cardon, an All-County player who is fielding offers to play on the collegiate level a year from now. Senior Ava Anguilli, another All-County honoree, is also back as a returning starter.

“I’ve got a ton of great athletes,” he said. “We want to run up and down the floor and press and trap and just cause havoc.”

The Generals will once again compete in Conference A-1, which features New Hyde Park, Calhoun, Mepham, Great Neck South, Jericho and Long Beach. While last season ended in disappointment, Maini was proud of how the team rallied after a tough beginning and hopes the 2022-23 season offers a far smoother process.

“We had a very slow start and we made some changes and the kids bought in,” he said. “It was a tough way to end, but hopefully we change that this year.”

Senior forward Patrick practice. playoffs.

attitude and energy displayed in hopes the 2022-23 season offers a the kids bought in,” he said. “It end, fully The

The Generals need to finish in the top four or .500 or better in A-1 to qualify for the

Anguilli and Hallie Bray, who have both committed to play soccer at Queens College, are part of an athletic senior class slated to play sports at the next level. Haley Feiler recently accepted a scholarship to play softball at Bentley. Junior Sara Kealy will also start after a strong junior campaign in her first season on varsity.

Lexie Thompson, who shined as goalie for the Generals’ girls soccer team in leading the program to a Long Island title in the fall, is the first player off the bench and a defensive force, especially when the team goes into a fullcourt press.

“She’s a tremendous defender,” said Radtke of Thompson, a University at Buffalo commit for soccer. She’s a very physically strong kid and one of the strongest kids I’ve ever coached.”

Ani Angelakis, Megan Campbell and Gabby Nicolini add to MacArthur’s depth. Radtke is looking to go as deep as possible to take advantage of the team’s athleticism.

December

16 @ Jericho 7:00 p.m.

20 New Hyde Park 7:00 p.m.

January

4 Mepham 7:00 p.m. 7 @ Long Beach 12:00 p.m. 10 @ Calhoun 7:00 p.m. 13 G.N. South 7:00 p.m. 21 Jericho 12:00 p.m. 27 @ New Hyde Park 5:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Mepham 7:00 p.m.

4 Long Beach 12:00 p.m. 7 Calhoun 7:00 p.m.

10 @ G.N. South 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

16 Jericho 7:00 p.m.

20 @ New Hyde Park 5:00 p.m.

January

4 @ Mepham 7:00 p.m.

7 Long Beach 12:00 p.m.

10 Calhoun 7:00 p.m.

13 @ G.N. South 7:00 p.m. 21 @ Jericho 12:00 p.m. 27 New Hyde Park 7:00 p.m.

February

1 Mepham 7:00 p.m.

4 @ Long Beach 5:00 p.m.

7 @ Calhoun 7:00 p.m. 10 G.N. South 7:00 p.m.

Photos by Karen Millindorf

Schedule BOYS

34 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

MALVERNE

By BRIAN KACHARABA

The Malverne boys’ basketball team cruised through the regular season with a 17-2 mark but failed to capture its second county championship in as many full seasons after falling to Friends Academy in the Nassau Class B final.

It was also the final chance for Trey Robinson (17.9 ppg) and DeAndre Blagrove (13.2, 13 double-doubles) to go out on top before they graduated and now the team must find a way to replace that offense while continuing to play at a high level.

“The question is, how are we going to make up at least 30 points,” associate coach Walter Aksionoff said. “We have to get 30 from somebody else and then someone else has to score.”

Senior Farvens Ulysse (9.7 ppg), who had 11 double-digit point games last season, will be looked upon to fill the void in a different role.

“He has the capability to be that guy,” Aksionoff said. “Last year, with [Robinson and Blagrove], I had him on the outside. But you have to get it inside. I want him there because he’s got that little extra height where we can get the ‘and-ones’.”

Senior Joshua Croom (7.5 ppg) should also get his share of points this season and while also contributing on the boards. He had two double-doubles last year and fell a rebound short of getting two more.

Senior Sylvain Castin and sophomore Lorenzo Maione are expected to start as well as junior forward Will Hartley. Chad Wesley will provide a spark off the bench as the sixth man and the team is high on eighth grader Malachi Hudson. Kevin Estime and Jordan Blue provide depth at forward.

Aside from Conference B2 division foes Seaford, West

Hempstead and East Rockaway, Malverne has a challenging non-conference slate that includes Nassau finalist Garden City, semifinalist Port Washington, and Suffolk champion Half Hollow Hills East in a Bay Shore tournament.

MALVERNE LEANS ON EXPERIENCE

Malverne’s girls’ team finally found their way into the win column last season and there could be more to come this winter with a more experienced lineup and the acquisition of some transfer students who may make an immediate impact.

The Mules’ losing streak that dated to Jan. 17, 2020, ended at 20 with a win over West Hempstead Jan. 12 and the team strung together two more victories before ending the campaign with seven straight defeats.

by senior newcomer Elisa Salce to form a formidable trio. Junior Jahairah Arnoux, Salce’s teammate at Holy Cross High School, is a solid one-on-one defender who can also get points offensively.

Another transfer student, junior Ayanna Simpson, is a quick guard from West Hempstead who is “defensively savvy” and adept at causing turnovers.

“Defense is definitely going to be our biggest thing,” Masson said.

Malverne will have to finish in the top two in Conference B2 to make the playoffs and Masson believes her team will be in the hunt come February.

“Each year is always different,” she said. “It’s a different set of girls.”

Leading scorer Princia Ulysse (16.6 ppg) graduated, but head coach Amanda Masson is using the departure to formulate a more balanced offensive attack led by senior Jamila Smith (8.7) and junior Mikayla Johnson (5.8).

coach Amanda Masson is using the departure to formulate

Schedule BOYS

December

13 @ West Hempstead 5:00 p.m.

21

3

“We

had a big loss

“We had a big loss from Princia, someone who handled the ball a majority of the time,” Masson said. “Now it’s more of changing the offense so everybody can get touches, less dribbling, move the ball more and getting the ball faster up the court.”

Masson is also excited about the growth of sophomore Hazel Whitfield (4.1), who has a high basketball IQ and knows where to position herself in transition in order to get high-percentage shots.

6

@ Wheatley 7:00 p.m.

@ Carle Place 7:00 p.m.

13

20

28

31

February

8 East Rockaway 7:00 p.m.

11

GIRLS

December

13 West Hempstead 5:30 p.m.

21

January

3 @ Locust Valley 7:00 p.m.

6

11

13

20

28

31

But defense and rebounding may be Malverne’s forte with senior Anissa McKay and sophomore Tyzanae Reed being joined

But defense and with sophomore Tyzanae

February

8 @ East Rockaway 7:00 p.m. 11 Oyster Bay 10:00 a.m.

Photos by Sue Grieco

from basketball IQ and knows to get high-percentage

Joshua Croom

36 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

MEPHAM

By DAVID WEINGRAD

Adeep, versatile roster gives Pirates head coach Bob Kaible plenty reason to believe his team can make some noise in Conference A1 boys’ basketball.

While last year was filled with some growing pains, he noted many of their defeats came in close games. This winter, with as many as 10 players who could receive regular playing time, Kaible has confidence that fresher legs in the fourth quarter could help tilt more tight games in Mepham’s favor.

Conference rivals include Jericho, neighboring Calhoun, Long Beach and MacArthur.

“Energy, effort and strength in numbers” said Kaible of his team’s mantra heading into the season. “We’ll use our advantage of having a lot of guys who can come into the game and wear other teams out.”

But for the Pirates to succeed, they will rely heavily on their top playmakers, most notably junior captain Kieran Kehoe, a 6-foot-5 forward who can score in the paint as well as from the outside, and will be a major focal point for the offense.

Another major piece is sophomore guard Owen Heller, a breakout candidate who Kaible said is capable of averaging double digits per game.

Two key returnees who will also help set the tone are senior co-captains Kevin Perry and junior Mitch Savalli, both who bring much experience and who Kaible hopes can help lead by example.

The team could also get a boost late in the season with the return of senior Trey O’Neil, an athletic guard who will miss some action for health reasons.

Regardless of where their record stands by season’s end, Kaible spoke confidently that his

squad will be a tough go for any one they play this season.

“We’ll grind out each game and make them work for everything,” he said. “They’re working very hard to start the year, so we’re trending in the right direction.”

ONE STARTER BACK FOR MEPHAM

Losing three top players is never easy, but with it also comes opportunities for others to step up. That’s what Mepham girls head coach Jim Mulvey is banking on following a successful 2021-22 campaign.

on the team; junior Katherine Burke, a valuable bench player; and sophomore Grace Skulavik, a lacrosse star with great athleticism who Mulvey hopes will continue to develop her basketball skills.

Despite losing some notable players, Mulvey said competing for the conference title remains the goal.

and sophomore Grace Skulavik, a strong. As we develop and grow as the season goes on, that’s all we can ask for, that we get the

“We will be a team that mixes it up,” he said. “We’re super strong. As we develop and grow as the season goes on, that’s all we can ask for, that we get the most out of this team.”

Makayla Daube

just one starter from their 16-2

The Pirates will be returning just one starter from their 16-2 season last year – senior MaKayla Daube, a versatile player who can excel at any position from center to point guard. “She’s just a throwback type of kid who’s fundamentally sound,” said Mulvey. “She’s a tough guard, in the sense where if she’s defended by a guard, we’ll post her up, and a big we’ll put her outside.”

December

Returning junior Ashley

extremely tough athlete. And startBeck earned the distinction of the

Returning junior Ashley Felsberg will start at point guard, a scrappy defender who Mulvey said may be small in stature but is an extremely tough athlete. And starting sophomore forward Sophia Beck earned the distinction of the most improved player entering the season after impressing the coaching staff with a strong summer camp.

Senior captains Markella Moutafis and Victoria Caminiti should both see increased playing this season to showcase their outside shooting abilities, and junior Brianna Friar, who led the junior varsity team in scoring last year, will also step into a starting guard role.

12 Long Beach 7:00 p.m.

16 @ New Hyde Park 6:30 p.m. 20 Calhoun 7:00 p.m.

January

4 @ MacArthur 7:00 p.m.

7 Jericho 12:00 p.m.

10 @ G.N. South 7:00 p.m.

18 @ Long Beach 5:00 p.m. 21 New Hyde Park 12:00 p.m. 26 @ Calhoun 7:00 p.m.

February

1 MacArthur 7:00 p.m.

4 @ Jericho 12:00 p.m.

7 G.N. South 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 @ Long Beach 7:00 p.m.

16 New Hyde Park 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Calhoun 6:30 p.m.

January

4 MacArthur 7:00 p.m.

7 @ Jericho 12:00 p.m.

10 G.N. South 7:00 p.m.

18 Long Beach 7:00 p.m.

21 @ New Hyde Park 12:00 p.m. 26 Calhoun 7:00 p.m.

Other expected contributors

Gabriella Caminiti, who her coach described as among the quickest

Other expected contributors include junior Grace Glynn, a strong inside presence; freshman Gabriella Caminiti, who her coach described as among the quickest

February

1 @ MacArthur 7:00 p.m. 3 Jericho 7:00 p.m.

7 @ G.N. South 7:00 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

Kieran Kehoe

Schedule BOYS

OCEANSIDE

New opponents await Sailors

By MARC BERMAN

Based on school enrollment, Oceanside’s basketball teams have moved from Conference AA1 to AA2 and will face a new group of opponents.

“We’ll play our schedule,’’ boys head coach Ed Risener said. “We’ll see new teams we haven’t seen in a few years. But it’s still competition.’’

Oceanside’s schedule now features fresh teams such as defending county and Long Island champion Baldwin, Herricks, Valley Stream Central, Plainview and Westbury.

The Sailors finished 7-12 last season – 5-9 in conference. The hope is they could leap over .500 and into the playoffs with a new slate. But it also has plenty of new faces.

Oceanside brings back three returning starters and they are all seniors. Risener is considering starting four guards.

Jacob Raphan is their leader and will run the point. Fellow senior Anthony Rodriguez is a 2-guard and top-scoring player that returns (9.1 points).

Senior Matt Amitrano is the most interesting specimen – a physical, big guard and excellent slasher because of his athleticism. He’ll play swingman.

A new starter is junior guard Connor Haufler who got scant time as a sophomore. He’s regarded as a good shooter and playmaker.

The only big in the lineup is forward Ben Zito, a 6-3 junior forward who is an inside-outside threat and can hit the 3. “He’s our do-it-all-guy this year,’’ Risener said.

Their only true center is 6-4 junior Adam Elbehiry, who could be in the mix to start by season’s end. He’s an All-County volleyball star and played a touch of varsity as a sophomore.

The last playoff season was 2017-18.

“Our goal every year is a playoff spot and finish in the top four,’’ Risener said. “The strength is the guards with our ballhandling and shooting. We have interchangeable pieces. Last year our strength was inside. This year our strength is the perimeter and shooting the 3.’’

OCEANSIDE BUILDS BLOCKS FOR FUTURE

The Sailors are planting seeds for what could be an excellent 2023-24 campaign.

Oceanside’s girls graduated a whopping eight seniors from an 8-11 squad, which spells a rebuilding year because of inexperience. The Sailors return one starter and their first player off the bench last winter.

The good news is their returning starter is a star. Junior point guard Brianna Amenta was All-County after averaging 14 points and 4 assists. “She’s got a great shot and has unlimited range where she can shoot pretty much from anywhere,’’ head coach Jared Stoler said. “She gets to the basket easily, too, and facilitates everyone else.’’

Stoler said. “She gets to

who is not afraid to attack the rim.

off the bench in 2021-22. Then there are a trio of other juniors who were solid players on JV — forward Maeve Barrins, defensivefirst guard Grace DiDominica and attacking forward Natalie Paul who is not afraid to attack the rim.

So what does this add up to? This is Stoler’s sixth season and hasn’t made the playoffs since his first year.

“We’re extremely young, lots of questions marks, lots of open

game by game. Who is buying in?’’

“We’re extremely young, lots of questions marks, lots of open spots,’’ Stoler said. “Honestly, it’s up for grabs. We’ll rotate the lineup game by game. Who is buying in?’’

Others vying for startinglineup action will be junior Emma Pagano, a forward who rebounds well and defends in the paint. Senior guard Ariel Landa, one of just three returning players, has varsity experience and is known as an aggressive defender utilizing her quickness. Another junior is forward Casey McCabe, who can score inside

“We’re juniorladen, so whatever groundwork we lay this year, will help us next year,’’ Stoler said. “We have a bunch of good athletes. We’re just trying to mold them into the system. It will be baptism of fire for everybody.”

Schedule

BOYS

December

who can score inside

an athletic forward as be physical.

14 @ Westbury 7:00 p.m. 17 @ V.S. Central 12:00 p.m. 21 Baldwin 7:00 p.m.

January

3

@ East Meadow 5:00 p.m.

6 Port Washington 7:00 p.m. 12 Herricks 7:00 p.m.

14 @ Plainview 12:00 p.m. 17 Westbury 7:00 p.m. 20 V.S. Central 7:00 p.m. 28 @ Baldwin 4:00 p.m. 31 East Meadow 7:00 p.m.

Junior Samantha Farsky will be the second point guard on the court after a decent season

Junior Samantha Farsky will be the

February

3 @ Port Washington 7:00 p.m.

8 @ Herricks 7:00 p.m.

11 Plainview 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

14 Westbury 7:00 p.m.

17 V.S. Central 12:00 p.m.

21 @ Baldwin 7:00 p.m.

January

3 East Meadow 7:00 p.m.

6 @ Port Washington 7:00 p.m.

11 @ Herricks 7:00 p.m.

13 Plainview 7:00 p.m.

17 @ Westbury 7:00 p.m.

20 @ V.S. Central 7:00 p.m.

30 Baldwin 7:00 p.m.

31 @ East Meadow 7:00 p.m.

February

3 Port Washington 5:00 p.m.

8 Herricks 7:00 p.m.

11 @ Plainview 11:45 a.m.

Photos by Eric Dunetz

Brianna Amenta

Jacob Raphan

SEAFORD

By ANDREW COEN

Seaford reached the round of 16 in the Class A boys’ basketball playoffs last year and will look to return to the postseason in a new league this winter with a largely new team.

The Vikings graduated nine seniors from an 11-7 team that knocked off Bethpage in the first round of the playoffs before falling to fourth-seeded Floral Park. This season, Seaford will compete in Class B due to changing enrollment against a smaller schools contending for a county title in Malverne, West Hempstead, Locust Valley, East Rockaway, Cold Spring

Harbor and Wheatley.

“We have good size and we’re athletic but there is really no varsity experience outside of two players,” said 41st-year Seaford head coach Ralph Rossetti, who has won 383 games and captured a county title in 1998. “We have to grow.”

The two returning starters from last season’s playoff team include senior guard TJ Harrington and junior center Devin O’Donnell. Both bring strong athleticism to the court with O’Donnell also a standout tight end on the Seaford football team and Harrington a baseball star for the Vikings who has committed to play college baseball at SUNY Oswego.

Junior guard Andrew Tudda is also back after earning some valuable minutes off the bench last season and will be counted on for a much larger role this winter. Varsity newcomers Luke Donovan and Frank Pyrt will also play key roles in trying to return Seaford to the postseason stage.

Rossetti said the team has potential to make some noise this season with a big wildcard being if there is improvement with jump shooting to complement its physicality and athleticism.

The Vikings will face challenges in their new conference and will also take on nine non-conference games including a Jan.21 battle at Lynbrook, which earned the seven seed in Class A last season.

SEAFORD RETURNS

JUST ONE STARTER

Seaford’s girls’ basketball team has a championship mindset this season in a new conference. The Vikings moved down to Class B due to a drop in enrollment and will now have far less teams in its way come playoff time, but second-year head coach Stephanie Bartkus knows achieving this goal will still be a major challenge.

“Now you can focus on how you are going to get through

playoffs, but you have to get there first,” said Bartkus of Class B, which features only six teams but strong programs like Locust Valley, East Rockaway, West Hempstead, Cold Spring Harbor, Malverne and Wheatley. “The teams in B are just as challenging as those in the A.”

strong programs like Locust Valley, starter from last year’s 11-10 team

Seaford returns just one starter from last year’s 11-10 team that won a first- round playoff game in Class A against Carey before falling to top-seeded Manhasset. Senior Danielle McHugh was a big part of last year’s success as starting point guard and will be counted on even more this winter as a veteran leader.

of last year’s success as

“She is a dominating athlete in our school,” said Bartkus of

“She is a dominating athlete in our school,” said Bartkus of McHugh, who is also a standout volleyball and lacrosse player. “She’s the kind of person that every single coach wants on their team.”

McHugh is co-captain along with Nicole Nietsch, the only other senior on the roster who got valuable minutes last season as a guard. Juniors Amanda Willliamson and Daniella Stek also came off the bench last year and will be counted on more in starting roles.

Skyler Secondino and Mia Marzini made strides last season as freshman and sophomores, respectively. Bartkus is also excited about the potential of Emily McGowan, who was brought up to varsity this season as an eighth grader after shining for the Seaford Middle School team a year ago.

December

15 @ East Rockaway 7:00 p.m. 17 West Hempstead 12:00 p.m. 21 @ Malverne 7:00 p.m.

January

6 @ C.S. Harbor 7:00 p.m. 12 Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m.

17

28

February

3 Locust Valley 7:00 p.m. 11 @ Wheatley 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

15 East Rockaway 7:00 p.m. 17 @ West Hempstead 12:00 p.m. 21 Malverne 7:00 p.m.

January

6 C.S. Harbor 7:00 p.m. 12 @ Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m. 17 Carle Place 7:00 p.m. 20 @ East Rockaway 7:00 p.m. 28 West Hempstead 12:00 p.m. 31 @ Malverne 5:30 p.m.

February

3 @ Locust Valley 7:00 p.m. 11 Wheatley 12:00 p.m.

Photos by Karen Millindorf

42 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

Devin O’Donnell

Schedule BOYS

SEWANHAKA

By DAVID WEINGRAD

Despite graduating nine players, Sewanhaka boys’ basketball head coach Jay Allen said his team has the personnel to pick up right where it left off after winning the conference title and making a run to the Nassau Class A quarterfinals.

Though the Indians will carry just one senior this season, Allen spoke highly of his roster’s unique talent and versatility.

Among them is 6-foot-3 junior forward Dylan McLennon, a talented two-way player who his coach said has potential to be one of the top players in the county.

Another junior forward, Jordan Tucker, is a physical player who can score and brings valuable defensive versatility.

Junior Elliott Lamotte is viewed as a leader on and off the court – he’s the student council president – and will be a cornerstone on defense. “He won’t

always be in the stat sheet,” said

Allen, “but he’s super valuable because of the leadership and tough nose play he brings.”

Junior Nasir McMillan, who Allen hailed as their version of the NBA’s Patrick Beverley, is another hard-nosed player who sets the tone with his intensity.

Sophomore Matthew Abreu is among the best shooters on the team but also an orchestrator with his passing ability.

Ryan Ambery is a 6-4 junior who can shoot from the outside who gives Allen a lot of options with his size and scoring ability.

And their lone senior, David Skeete will serve as a spark plug off the bench.

With such a young, talented group, Allen said the sky’s the limit.

“The ultimate goal is to always win a championship and I think this team is eventually going to be on other team’s radars,” the coach said. “We will play hard, be mentally tough, and I think that’s what will make us stand out,” he said.

“We have a potential to be really good, but it will take patience.”

Co-Defensive Player of the Year, excels in rim protection and shot blocking. Grant, a strong outsider shooter, is a floor general who leads by example.

Kyla’s sister Janiya, a sophomore who is only playing just her second year of organized basketball, has a massive upside, said Soupios, as a stretch forward with tremendous athleticism and speed.

Emblematic of Sewanhaka’s youth movement are two eighth graders who will open the season in the starting lineup – Nayeli Rivera and Alexi Stewart, at point guard and shooting guard, respectively, both who Soupios said have experience against older competition and basketball IQs well beyond their years. “These two kids have a winning mentality at a very young age,” he said. “As a coach it gives your program many things to look forward to for years to come.”

Jada Brown

Schedule BOYS

December

NEW LOOK FOR SEWANHAKA

NEW LOOK FOR SEWANHAKA

“Change” has been the

cludes two eighth graders coach Soupios said have starters, team. Brown,

“Change” has been the operative word for Sewanhaka as it opens this season with a revamped roster that includes two eighth graders in the starting lineup. The team returns just two starters from last year and welcomes many new faces who head coach Alex Soupios said have put in a strong summer camp. Those two starters, senior co-captains Jada Brown and Kyla Grant, will help set the tempo for the younger team. Brown, a reigning Conference II

Juniors Mariah Wolfe and Lana Cayo will be among the first players off the bench and contribute to all facets of the game. And sophomore Thalia Fowler is a defensive specialist who can instantly be paired against the opposition’s best scorer. Senior MeKayla Moreau, the third co-captain, and sophomores Aniya Marriott and Saniya Moreau will also play roles off the bench.

“The goal is always to make the playoffs,” said Soupios. “A lot of young kids have put that time and effort this summer to embrace change. I like the direction we’re in.”

13 @ Kennedy 7:00 p.m. 15 Elmont 4:30 p.m. 20 @ Garden City 6:45 p.m.

January

4 South Side 5:00 p.m. 10 @ Roslyn 7:00 p.m. 13 G.N. North 5:00 p.m. 18 Kennedy 5:00 p.m. 21 @ Elmont 10:00 a.m. 27 Garden City 5:00 p.m.

February

1 @ South Side 7:00 p.m. 7 Roslyn 5:00 p.m. 10 @ G.N. North 5:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 Kennedy 5:00 p.m. 15 @ Elmont 4:30 p.m. 20 Garden City 5:00 p.m.

January

4 @ South Side 7:00 p.m. 10 Roslyn 5:00 p.m. 13 @ G.N. North 5:00 p.m. 18 @ Kennedy 7:00 p.m. 21 Elmont 12:00 p.m. 27 @ Garden City 5:00 p.m.

February

1 South Side 5:00 p.m. 7 @ Roslyn 7:00 p.m. 10 G.N. North 5:00 p.m.

Photos by Sue Grieco

Cayo will be among the first players

44 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

SOUTH SIDE

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Coming off a 16-win campaign and an appearance in the Nassau Class A boys’ basketball semifinals, South Side returns six of its top eight contributors including its two leading scorers.

“The kids’ effort in practice has been great and they’ve got a bit of a chip on their shoulders,” head coach Jerry D’Angelo said. “We want to play in the county championship game.”

Three of the Cyclones’ defeats last winter came at the hands of eventual state champion Manhasset. The teams are not conference rivals this season. Nonetheless, South Side has its work cut out with

Garden City, Elmont, Sewanhaka, Great Neck North, Roslyn and Kennedy on the docket.

“I think we’re in the most difficult ‘A’ conference,” D’Angelo said.

Spearheading South Side’s chances of a county title is a strong senior class led by Robert Pericolosi and James Murphy. Pericolosi averaged a double-double (13 points and 11 rebounds per game) last season, while Murphy scored 11 points per game and pulled down 6 boards.

“Robert can do it all,” D’Angelo said of Pericolosi, an All-County forward who led the Cyclones in scoring, rebounds, blocks and steals. “We’re counting on him to fill the stat sheet again and also be our best defender,” he added.

Murphy, an All-Conference selection, is a reliable shooting guard who also gets to the basket. “James can score in a variety of ways and is also an unselfish player who creates shots for others,” D’Angelo said.

Senior point guard James Bivona is a perimeter threat and creative distributor, the coach noted. Senior Chris Vanco is a solid defender in the backcourt.

court last season when they went 12-6 and qualified for the playoffs.

“Our biggest issue has been injuries,” he said. “If we can avoid them, we can certainly compete for the conference title. We’re moving up one conference and I feel we’ll certainly be in the mix.”

South Side will tangle with some recent county champions in Sewanhaka and Elmont, and play a difficult non-league that includes Plainedge and Massapequa. Ferrick has been joined on the bench by new assistant coach Scott Walley and said it’s “very beneficial to have another set of eyes and another perspective.”

Junior Kyla Murphy comes off an All-County campaign that saw her average 13 points against conference foes, including a career-high 25 in a win over Hewlett. “The best thing about Kyla is her versatility,” Ferrick said. “She can play point guard up to power forward and be super productive.”

Senior center Ava Kelly is bound for a bigger role and provides important leadership, Ferrick said. “She’s an excellent athlete who’s capable of a double-double any game.”

Schedule

BOYS

December

14 Roslyn 7:00 p.m. 16 @ G.N. North 5:00 p.m.

January

4 @ Sewanhaka 5:00 p.m. 7 Kennedy 12:00 p.m. 10 Elmont 7:00 p.m.

Up front with Pericolosi, South Side features 6-foot-4 senior forward Josh Garelle and 6-5 junior Ryan Kennedy. Both played considerable minutes last season and do “a lot of things it takes for us to be successful,” D’Angelo said. Quality depth in the frontcourt is provided by juniors Patrick Mullen and Matt Arnott.

Also in the frontcourt is sophomore Charlotte Rathjen, who has starting experience and a 6-foot frame. “She’s tall and fast and very athletic,” Ferrick said. Another sophomore, Taylor Hansman, is 5-8 with versatility and solid all-around skills.

13 @ Garden City 6:45 p.m. 18 @ Roslyn 7:00 p.m. 21 G.N. North 12:00 p.m.

February

1 Sewanhaka 7:00 p.m.

3 @ Kennedy 4:30 p.m.

7 @ Elmont 5:00 p.m. 10 Garden City 7:00 p.m.

frontcourt

At guard, junior Dakota Evans brings an All-Conference resume and tremendous shooting ability. Junior Catherine Ahern, a tenacious defender who can also hurt opponents with her shooting range, is in the mix to start or play significant minutes off the bench like last season, depending on matchups Ferrick said.

GIRLS

December

14 @ Roslyn 7:00 p.m. 16 G.N. North 7:00 p.m.

January

4 Sewanhaka 7:00 p.m.

7 @ Kennedy 12:00 p.m.

HEALTH A KEY

HEALTH A KEY FOR SOUTH SIDE

A healthy lineup would be a breath of fresh air for Cyclones girls’ head coach Dan Ferrick, who rarely had his desired lineup on the

Sophomore guard Ella Burbige was the JV’s leading scorer and can do damage from the outside, and senior guard Hailey Ferraro-Reich is an energetic leader in her fourth season with the program.

10 @ Elmont 5:00 p.m. 13 Garden City 7:00 p.m. 18 Roslyn 7:00 p.m. 21 @ G.N. North 12:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Sewanhaka 5:00 p.m.

4 Kennedy 12:00 p.m.

7 Elmont 7:00 p.m. 10 @ Garden City 5:00 p.m.

Photos by Neil Miller

46 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

James Murphy

role

V.S. CENTRAL

Encouraging signs for Eagles

By TONY BELLISSIMO

The Eagles will attempt to fly to the Nassau Class AA boys’ basketball playoffs under the guidance of their third different head coach in as many seasons.

Mike Wimmer, who spent 10 seasons at the helm at Island Trees and led the Bulldogs to a conference title and their first playoff victory since the 1990s, takes over at Central and has been encouraged by the work ethic.

“The kids are working hard and we’re having competitive practices,” he said. “I haven’t walked out of the gym once concerned about effort. They’re all pushing towards the

same goals and want to achieve as much as they can.”

Wimmer is looking for the performance on the defensive end to keep the Eagles competitive in every game. They’re in a difficult Conference AA-2 that features defending county and Long Island champion Baldwin, county runner-up Plainview, Port Washington, Oceanside, Westbury, East Meadow and Herricks.

“I’m excited about the talent we have,” Wimmer said. “At this time, I don’t know how we match up with the opponents on the schedule.”

Coming off a 5-win season, Central boasts a number of potential double-digit scorers. Junior guard Saige Frisco and senior forward Jayden Vera both averaged about 8 points per game last winter. Wimmer said Frisco is a quality catch-andshoot player with great length and athleticism, while Vera is a poised player with the ability to finish and rebound.

rebound. athletic around the basket and in transition. Senior O’Neil

FUNDAMENTAL WORK KEY FOR VSC

Coming off a 3-win campaign, VSC’s girls program is dealing with a numbers issue for a third straight season and will carry five freshman on the varsity roster.

and head said. “The Covid seasons renumbers

varsity

“We’re young and almost in a complete reboot,” head coach Malyssa Thorngren said. “The Covid seasons really hurt our numbers and we’re returning just one varsity player. We’re spending a lot of time on skill work and getting kids used to what varsity defenses are going to try to do against us. We’re making some progress every day.”

Junior Faizat Shekoni is the team’s only varsity experienced player and she’s a quality shooter with long range, Thorngren noted. “She’s probably our best defender too and that comes with experience being in her third varsity season,” the coach said. “Her confidence has grown and she’s not afraid to shoot or make a mistake. She’s taken on a leadership role as well.”

said. Tate is aggressive and can rack up rebounds. Also part of the forward group is senior Stephanie Sannon, who’s 6-foot-1 and serving as a vocal leader as well.

Schedule BOYS

December

14 Baldwin 7:00 p.m. 17 Oceanside 12:00 p.m. 21 @ Herricks 7:00 p.m.

January

3 @ Plainview 7:00 p.m. 6 East Meadow 7:00 p.m. 11 Westbury 7:00 p.m.

@ Port Washington 12:00 p.m.

presence

Junior forward Matt Neckles brings a skill set the coach said is difficult to replicate. Neckles is super athletic and strong around the basket and in transition. Senior O’Neil Spence is a physical center and a presence in the paint.

New program, senior guard both the Senior transfer Aaron instincts.

New to the program, senior guard Bryan Jean-Pierre plays fast and showing potential to be a catalyst at both ends of the floor. Senior transfer Aaron Anokye is quick and shifty with a nice pull-up jumper and defensive instincts.

Freshman Amyah Byas is one of many making the leap from the middle school team to varsity. She is a guard/forward combo expected to start in the backcourt to fill a need. “She plays travel basketball and gets to the rim well and developing nicely as a shooter,” Thorngren said.

Another ninth-grader, Alyssa Haughton, is a combo guard capable of running the point and logging major minutes. “She’s a great athlete with endurance and I expect her to be a solid player,” Thorngren said.

A couple of starters on the JV last season, junior Arianna Perez and sophomore Amaiya Tate, will lead the way at forward. Perez does all the little things it takes to help a team be successful and always goes full speed, the coach

@ Baldwin 7:00 p.m. 20 @ Oceanside 7:00 p.m. 28 Herricks 12:00 p.m. 31 Plainview 7:00 p.m.

February

3 @ East Meadow 5:00 p.m. 8 @ Westbury 7:00 p.m. 11 Port Washington 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

14 @ Baldwin 7:00 p.m. 17 @ Oceanside 12:00 p.m. 21 Herricks 7:00 p.m.

January

3 Plainview 7:00 p.m.

6 @ East Meadow 7:00 p.m. 11 @ Westbury 7:00 p.m.

14 Port Washington 12:00 p.m. 17 Baldwin 7:00 p.m. 20 Oceanside 7:00 p.m. 28 @ Herricks 12:00 p.m. 31 @ Plainview 6:45 p.m.

February

3 East Meadow 7:00 p.m. 8 Westbury 7:00 p.m. 11 @ Port Washington 12:00 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

Saige Frisco

Faizat Shekoni

V.S. NORTH

Spartans off Final Four finish

By VINCENT MATULA

It was a strong 2021-22 campaign for Valley Stream North boys’ basketball finishing with a 15-7 overall record and a Final Four appearance in Nassau Class A.

This year’s Spartans will look to carry that momentum over despite their roster looking a little different.

A big contributor offensively for North last season was AllCounty selection Godwin Eyiuche. With him graduated, juniors Dominic Obukwelu and Jalen Harrison will take over as the primary scoring options for head

scoring

coach Michael McVeigh. Harrison, a shifty point guard and playmaker, is back at North after playing at Christ the King last season.

Obukwelu averaged 10 points per game, earned All-Conference honors and selected to the Nassau Basketball Coaches Association of New York Team in August. He’ll be counted on to lead his teammates not just with his play, but his qualities on non-game days too. “He’s going to set the tone for how we’re supposed to practice,” McVeigh said. “Guys are going to look to him to be one of the vocal leaders.”

Additionally, three seniors will take the court for the Spartans as catch-and-shoot specialist Jaden Rodriguez, playmaking guard Aaron Rodriguez, and Padraig Behan, a big who can stretch the floor and shoot the three, all bring unique qualities to an already strong leadership group.

group features 10 rostered players, all of which bring exciting qualities. Fifth-year varsity player Kayla Santo, a very good rebounder, and fourth-year varsity guard Gabriela Mensah providing sound defense to lead the way. The two will guide fellow senior Lauren Skliros as she embarks on her first and only season with the varsity.

“They (Kayla and Gabriela) have been in the program for so many years that they’ve each brought unique skill traits,” head coach George Karahalios said. “We’re expecting them to grow even more.”

Three of the five starters for North are juniors, each bringing excellent qualities. Leading scorer Elena Magno is back after averaging 14.2 points per game and has fully recovered from a knee injury.

“I think mentaly our team is stronger than ever this year,” Karahalios said. “This group is confident in their abilities.”

After being pulled up from JV last season, multi-sport athlete Danny Kosior is one name that has “shown some promise,” according to McVeigh and has the potential to be an x-factor.

Valley Stream North finds itself in A-4, a new-look conference this season with plenty of quality opponents such as Bethpage, Floral Park, Plainedge, Wantagh, Mineola, and Lynbrook. Four of those six finished last season with 11 or more wins, making this conference a fierce one.

bring unique qualities to an making fierce

“The conference is very deep,” McVeigh said. “We’re just trying to get better and become the best team we can possibly be.”

SPARTANS BRING WELL-ROUNDED TALENT

Valley Stream North’s girls concluded 2021-22 with a 6-11 overall record. This year’s

When Magno went down, the team turned to Alyanna Nadal to take over the point and provide great defense. Nadal put together an All-Conference season averaging eight points, five rebounds and three steals per game.

Isabella Feldman rounds out the three starting juniors for the Spartans after a strong finish to last season and picking up some more confidence in her shot.

“Last year they came out strong and improved throughout the season, so I’m expecting that to continue,” Karahalios said. Two players from JV will be seeing some playing time on the varsity court as Daniella Orozco’s defensive presence and an offensive push from Savyon Rodriguez will look to put the club over the top. Both newcomers are joined by freshman Alessia Nunnari.

Being that the margin for error is thin, the Spartans will look towards consistent play and confidence to fuel their run towards a conference title.

Schedule BOYS

December

13 Bethpage 7:00 p.m. 16 @ Wantagh 7:00 p.m. 20 Lynbrook 7:00 p.m.

January

4 @ Floral Park 5:00 p.m. 7 Plainedge 12:00 p.m.

@ Mineola 6:45 p.m.

@ Bethpage 7:00 p.m. 21 Wantagh 12:00 p.m. 27 @ Lynbrook 7:00 p.m. 30 @ Plainedge 6:45 p.m.

February

1

Floral Park 7:00 p.m.

7 Mineola 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 @ Bethpage 5:00 p.m. 15 Wantagh 5:00 p.m. 19 @ Lynbrook 5:00 p.m.

January

4 Floral Park 7:00 p.m. 7 @ Plainedge 11:45 a.m. 10 Mineola 7:00 p.m. 18 Bethpage 7:00 p.m. 21 @ Wantagh 12:00 p.m. 27 Lynbrook 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Floral Park 5:00 p.m. 4 Plainedge 12:00 p.m.

7 @ Mineola 6:15 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

Elena Magno

Dominic Obukwelu

V.S. SOUTH

Falcons hope to fly again

By BRIAN KACHARABA

The results didn’t meet the expectations for the Valley Stream South boys’ basketball team last season after recording just one conference victory and two wins overall. But things could take a turn for the better this winter thanks to a rising young star and more height added to the lineup.

The Falcons were well prepared for the 2022-23 season after competing in numerous summer tournaments and scheduling double-digit workouts and split the first two games of the campaign but could only muster a win at Mineola in the penultimate game the rest of the way.

“There’s only one way to go but up,” head coach Mike O’Brien said. “I think there’s actually potential. It’s kind of like a new team.”

Brady Delvalle surprised as a freshman last year by averaging just under 11 points as a point guard. This season, O’Brien is hoping to eventually place him at the two-guard position to take more advantage of his already high basketball IQ.

“He’s a two, but he’s still our best option at the one,” he explained. “But for us to have success, I see him as our leading scorer. I’m hoping he can score 15-plus a game.”

Andy Dorant is the shooting guard and, despite his 6-foot-5 frame, O’Brien is expected to slot fellow senior Nicholas Parisi as a third guard. But Parisi’s basketball awareness makes him effective at any position.

Juniors Dillon Wallace (6-4) and Lonnie Creech (6-2) will make their varsity debuts and complete the starting five. Senior Robert Jones (6-5) brings more height off the bench and senior Gavin Benevides is the team’s “best pure shooter”, according to O’Brien.

The team moved down to Conference A5 this year, but O’Brien believes the schedule didn’t get much easier.

“Every team except for Island Trees made the playoffs last year,” he said of the new conference. “There’s definitely no gimmies.”

NEW COACH TO GUIDE VSS

time after spending her previous years on a volleyball sideline. She welcomes the challenge of helping a team that won just once last winter.

“At first, I was a little hesitant just because it’s out of my typical wheelhouse, but given my own background, I was like, ‘You know what, let’s see what I can do with these girls.’” she said.

team that won just once last winter. I foundation

The roster is senior-heavy, but also features sophomores that could create a foundation for the future. Senior point guard Laura Cardona is the top returning scorer and Serpico is hoping she could be the court general as well.

“I want Laura to step up and take control of the court and lead her team,” Serpico said. “I want her to really direct her players where they need to be.”

court and lead her team,”

Amani Coyall and Gabriella Williams could be the team’s best outside shooters, with fellow seniors Christina Barkolas and LaMaya Mays handling rebounding and putback duties. Senior Kellie McMillan provides depth at point guard and senior Diarra Danville is an aggressive defender off the bench.

As for the sophomores, Lisa Jean-Antoine could occasionally start at guard, Ysavel Clesca provides defense and will fight for a loose ball, and Jayla McLean brings strong rebounding and defense.

Serpico hopes for more wins but, more importantly, would like the girls to gain confidence as the season progresses.

Schedule BOYS

December

16 @ North Shore 7:00 p.m. 20 Lawrence 5:00 p.m.

January

4 Clarke 5:00 p.m. 7 @ Academy Charter 12:00 p.m. 10 @ Island Trees 7:00 p.m. 13 Friends Academy 5:00 p.m. 21 North Shore 12:00 p.m. 27 @ Lawrence 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Clarke 7:00 p.m. 4 Academy Charter 12:00 p.m. 7 Island Trees 5:00 p.m. 10 @ Friends Academy 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

15 North Shore 5:00 p.m. 20 @ Lawrence 7:00 p.m.

January

this

The athletic department made an outside-the-box hire in hopes of improving the girls’ program this season.

Dominique Serpico, a Spanish teacher in the district, will be coaching basketball for the first

“Last year, they were 1-15 [and] I would like to at least go a couple better than that,” she said. “If we have a strong team chemistry, we may not win every single game, but I want the girls to feel good coming off that court.”

4 @ Clarke 7:00 p.m. 10 Island Trees 5:00 p.m. 13 @ Friends Academy 7:00 p.m. 20 @ North Shore 5:15 p.m. 27 Lawrence 5:00 p.m.

February

1 Clarke 5:00 p.m. 7 @ Island Trees 7:00 p.m. 10 Friends Academy 5:00 p.m.

risi’s basketball awareness

Gavin Benevides is the didn’t get much easier.

Photos by Paul Grassini

Brady Delvalle

Laura Cardona

By ANDREW COEN

WANTAGH

The Wantagh boys’ basketball team got a taste of the postseason last winter and will look to take another step this winter with an experienced squad.

The Warriors return four starters from a team that earned the final playoff spot in Conference A-5. While Wantagh finished 3-7 in the league, the team dropped a number of close contests and clinched a fourth-place finish with a 44-33 win at Lawrence.

“Our record didn’t show how well we played last year as we were in every game,” said secondyear head coach Matt Simeone, whose team gave 11th-seeded Hewlett a scare in the first round

of the Class A playoffs before falling 50-44. “We saw we could compete and now we have to build off of that confidence.”

Wantagh brings back much senior Jakai Lester, who averaged 11.2 points per game last year after transferring from St. Dominic. Charlie DeStefano, Ryan Daly and Danny Fisenne also have plenty of experience under their belt after starting last season.

Seniors Jake Borgese and Joe Martin became a big part of the Warriors’ rotation toward the end of last season and will see plenty of minutes for their final high school baseball campaign. Senior Nick Cupelli and junior Jack Tate, who Simeone knows well as an assistant coach on the Wantagh football program, are also expected to be big contributors.

Wantagh will compete in Conference V this season with Bethpage, Valley Stream North, Floral Park, Plainedge, Lynbrook and Mineola. Simeone said the competition will be tough, but he hopes his roster of top athletes who also have physical toughness can be the difference maker leading to another playoff appearance.

lacrosse at Northwestern in the spring.

Jakai Lester

“These are tough kids,” said Simeone, a former longtime assistant basketball coach at Friends Academy. “We are trying to get the kids to build off of last

year.”

WANTAGH HUNGRY FOR PLAYOFF RUN

The Wantagh girls return most of last year’s team that dropped a first round playoff heartbreaker, but still has big shoes to fill.

competition will be tough, but he longtime of last year’s team that dropped a loss was a big one in guard Madi-

The Warriors’ one graduation loss was a big one in guard Madison Taylor, who averaged 14 points and seven rebounds per game and will be playing college women’s

of production to replace, longtime head a deep

While this leaves a ton of production to replace, longtime head coach Stan Bujacich will have plenty of talent and depth on the floor fueled for a deep postseason run after falling to Hewlett 62-61 in the round of 16 of the Class A playoffs last February.

in the round of 16 of the Class A is entering experienced

“I think everybody remembers that and is hungry to get back at it,” said Bujacich of the playoff loss in which Hewlett rallied from 10 down entering the fourth quarter. “I like the versatility of our rotation, but the main thing is they’ve experienced a whole season last year.”

The four returning starters include Katherine Killian, Skylar Mondelli, Juliana Cerasi and Brighid Smith. Senior guard Ava Kornbluth is also back after missing most of last season following an ACL injury in the second game and brings veteran leadership as a four-year varsity player.

Junior guard Lindsey Loor provides more firepower to the Wantagh offense after moving to Wantagh from Queens, where she was the conference’s leading scorer for the Academy of Music and Television in Long Island City. Loor is among multiple versatile players in the rotation along with Casey Kissinger, Riley Forthofer, Julia Allen and Angela Pellicoro. Meghan Tucker, Sabrina Asadurian and Emily McGeown could also see valuable minutes.

“We could go with a lot of different variations of lineups out there,” said Bujacich, who has led the Wantagh program for the past 30 years. “There’s lot of interchangeable parts.”

Conference foes include defending county champion Plainedge, runner-up Floral Park and semifinalist Lynbrook.

December 13 @ Lynbrook 7:00 p.m.

16

January

4 Mineola 6:45 p.m.

10 @ Plainedge 5:00 p.m.

13 Bethpage 7:00 p.m. 18 Lynbrook 7:00 p.m. 21 @ V.S. North 12:00 p.m. 27 Floral Park 7:00 p.m.

February

1 @ Mineola 6:45 p.m.

7 Plainedge 5:00 p.m. 10 @ Bethpage 7:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 Lynbrook 5:00 p.m. 15 @ V.S. North 5:00 p.m. 20 Floral Park 5:00 p.m.

January

4 @ Mineola 6:15 p.m. 10 Plainedge 5:00 p.m. 13 @ Bethpage 5:00 p.m. 18 @ Lynbrook 5:00 p.m. 21 V.S. North 12:00 p.m. 30 @ Floral Park 5:00 p.m.

February

1 Mineola 5:00 p.m.

7 @ Plainedge 6:45 p.m. 10 Bethpage 5:00 p.m.

Photos by Karen Millindorf

Schedule BOYS

54 — December 22, 2022 HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS HIGH SCHOOL Basketball PREVIEW

WEST HEMPSTEAD

Rams ready to turn page

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Eric Rubin, the Rams’ third head coach in as many seasons, said November was a slow start due to the football team’s run to the county title game as well as some illness that found its way around the roster.

“We’re not ready yet but we’ll get there,” Rubin said. “It was great to see the football team do

so well. We have some of those kids and everyone is learning an entirely new system. It’s going to take time to get used to our drills.

West Hempstead, which struggled mightily last season with just one victory and 71 points per game allowed, has four non-league games to prepare for a Conference B grind that’ll include Malverne, Wheatley, Carle Place and Seaford.

“We’re spending a lot of time on defense,” said Rubin, who coached MacArthur for 14 seasons. “I told the kids the first thing we’re doing is cutting into that 71 points allowed big time. We also want to be up-tempo and exciting offensively.”

Senior Chris Olivier is the team’s top defender and a vital part of what the Rams are looking to do at both ends of the floor. “He’s tenacious on D and can also score,” Rubin said.

Junior center Anthony Graffeo Jackson and junior point guard Chris Young were JV starters last season and primed for the same role on varsity. Graffeo Jackson has shown the ability to score in the paint as well as from outside, while Rubin said Young is as talented as anyone on the roster.

Senior Chris Altidor can play either guard spot, while seniors Gardy Ilderice and Jaden Forte, and juniors Gavin Lee and Declan Cole, lead the effort at forward. Rubin said Lee has “elevated everyone in practice.”

Junior guard Joe Thomas is a smart player with a quality handle, and sophomore Evan Wilson could contribute at the point.

WEST HEMPSTEAD IN NUMBERS CRUNCH

After reaching the Nassau Class B girls semifinals last season, West Hempstead’s depth and endurance will be tested as head coach Chris Van Kovics works with a roster size unlikely to reach double figures.

The Rams split 20 games last season but lost most of their experienced varsity players and scoring production.

The Rams split 20 games

“We only had one bad loss and I thought we held serve and had a fairly entertaining season,” Van Kovics said of the 2021-22 campaign. “It’s going to be hard to replace what we graduated. We have our work cut out and it’s important we stay healthy because it looks like we’ll probably have eight kids on varsity.”

“We only had one bad loss and had a fairly entertaining season,”

Mingo will need to

“We’ve had a conversation and

Senior Chance Mingo will need to be a scoring machine, the coach said. She is a quality outside shooter and also capable of driving the lane and getting to the foul line. She averaged 13.5 points per game and hit for 20 on multiple occasions. “We’ve had a conversation and Chance knows we need even more offense out of her,” Van Kovics said of the Honorable Mention All-County guard/forward. “She’s our leader.”

Senior guard Gianna Cardillo has some starting experience and can make things happen defensively and in transition. “She’s our quickest player and will be at the top of our presses,” Van Kovics said.

At point guard, senior Emma Shinsato can drive and dish and is a scrappy defender. “She’ll try to create as much havoc as possible,” Van Kovics noted.

Senior center Aniya James will be asked to provide strong defense in the post and contribute some points on putbacks. Senior guard/ forward Ashlee Boodoo brings a high basketball IQ and does a lot of things well, including shoot and fight for rebounds, the coach said.

The five seniors will start with sophomores Constance BerryRawley and Christina Guerrier, and freshman Daniella Healy playing key roles off the bench.

MATT GUILFOYLE Schedule BOYS

December

13 Malverne 5:00 p.m. 17 @ Seaford 12:00 p.m. 21 @ Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m.

January

3 @ East Rockaway 7:00 p.m. 6 Carle Place 5:00 p.m. 11 C.S. Harbor 5:00 p.m. 14 Wheatley 12:00 p.m. 20 @ Malverne 7:00 p.m. 28 Seaford 12:00 p.m.

February

3 East Rockaway 5:00 p.m. 11 @ Locust Valley 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS

December

13 @ Malverne 5:00 p.m. 17 Seaford 12:00 p.m. 21 Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m.

January

3 East Rockaway 7:00 p.m. 6 @ Carle Place 7:00 p.m. 11 @ C.S. Harbor 7:00 p.m. 14 @ Wheatley 12:00 p.m. 20 Malverne 5:00 p.m. 28 @ Seaford 12:00 p.m.

February

2 @ East Rockaway 7:00 p.m. 11 Locust Valley 12:00 p.m.

Photos by Sue Grieco

Chris Olivier

Chance Mingo

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