Basketball preview - Herald Community Newspapers

2016-17 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS PREVIEW December 22, 2016

BASKETBALL INSIDE

PROSPECTS FOR THE ’16-17 SEASON

25 SCHOOLS CONFERENCE ALIGNMENTS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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December 22, 2016 — 3

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

TEAM IndEx Baldwin Bruins ................................ 6 Calhoun Colts (Bellmore-Merrick) ... 8 Carey Seahawks (Franklin Square) 10 Clarke Rams (Westbury) .............. 11 East Meadow Jets ........................ 12 East Rockaway Rocks................... 14 Elmont Spartans .......................... 16 Freeport Red Devils ...................... 18 Hewlett Bulldogs .......................... 20 Kennedy Cougars (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 22 Lawrence Golden Tornadoes ......... 24 Long Beach Marines..................... 25 Lynbrook Owls .............................. 26 MacArthur Generals ..................... 30 Malverne Mules ............................ 32 Mepham Pirates (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 34 Oceanside Sailors ........................ 35 Seaford Vikings ............................ 36 Sewanhaka Indians (Floral Park)... 37 South Side Cyclones (Rockville Centre) ......................... 38 Valley Stream Central Eagles ........ 41 Valley Stream North Spartans ...... 42 Valley Stream South Falcons ........ 43 Wantagh Warriors ......................... 44 West Hempstead Rams ................ 46

Basketball Preview a special advertising supplement to the herald Community newspapers

Zach Bromfeld, Hewlett High School Photo by John Heckman

Publishers Clifford riChner Stuart riChner Executive Editor SCott Brinton Section Editor tony BelliSSimo Creative Director Editorial Designer Jeffrey a. negrin Production Supervisor Byron Stewart Production Assistant fatima rodrigueS Art Director Craig Cardone Photo Editor ChriStina daly Vice President of Sales rhonda gliCkman Page Editors tony BelliSSimo Jeff BeSSen SCott Brinton Contributing Sportswriters tony BelliSSimo andrew mCClure andrew Coen JoSePh kellard Joe galotti On the cOver 2016- 17 HIGH SCHOO L SPORTS PREVIEW

BA SK ET BA LL December 22, 2016

INSIDE

PROSPECTS FOR THE ’16-17 SEASON

25 SCHOOLS CONFEREN CE ALIGNMEN TS

elmont high School

Photo by keith o’reilly

Cover Design - Jeffrey A. Negrin Photo - John Heckman Cover Photo - Kerrin Montgomery Lynbrook High School

Basketball Preview is an advertising supplement to the Herald Community Newspapers. Copyright © 2017 Richner Communications, Inc. Published by richner Communications, inc. 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 (516) 569-4000 • www.ilherald.com

4 — December 22, 2016

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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December 22, 2016 — 5

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Baldwin Bruins aim for another title great leaping ability, Burton said.

Junior Nasim Cylin, who filled the scoresheet at the JV level, is ready to take the n paper, the gap next step. He’s 6-4 and a likely between two-time starter in the frontcourt. defending Nassau Senior Ian Rieger gained Class AA boys’ basketball valuable experience last seachampion Baldwin and the son practicing against Baldrest of the county field is win’s other bigs, and will be a smaller than a year ago with presence in the paint. the Bruins losing not only Senior Derrick Ruffin does two starters to graduation but a lot of the dirty work, and also a pair to other schools. senior Gerian Beaubrun can “The road is going to be slash to the basket. Depth will tougher, but we return eight varsity players and had a very be provided by seniors Matt Trepeta and John Smith, and good offseason,” said head sophomore Rhijon Blackwell. coach Darius Burton, who guided Baldwin to 22 wins last winter including its third Lady Bruins Long Island title during his full of experience tenure. “The gap might be Here’s some scary news closer, but I still think we’re for the challengers to the one of the teams to beat,” he Lady Bruins’ Nassau Class added.

AA throne: they return four While the Bruins (43 straight wins against Confer- starters, the most under head coach Tom Catapano in seven ence AA-II rivals) lack some size, their patented swarming seasons, including a pair pressure defense isn’t going to of All-Long Island junior guards. change. Senior point guards Baldwin went 20-3 in a seaJabeon Bivins and Norman son that ended with a tough Wilson can create havoc in loss to Commack in the Long full- and half-court presses.

Island title game. It’s looking Bivins, an All-Conference for a fourth straight county selection, is the team’s lone crown, and a trip upstate. returning starter and trying “We’ve built the most to become the first player in program history to win three intense non-league schedcounty championships. “He’s ule,” said Catapano, noting games against a handful our floor general,” Burton of teams from other states said. “He protects the ball, are part of a slate that also can shoot the three, and gets to the basket.” Wilson, expect- includes South Shore and Mary Louis, as well as Kings ed to provide more offense in his second year in the system Park as part of Baldwin’s Tournament on Dec. 26. “We after serving as the starting want to get as ready as we can quarterback for the football for February,” he added. squad, has a strong pull-up At some point soon, First jumper.

Team All-L.I. guard Aziah HudThe first player off the son will reach some scoring bench in the majority of plateaus. The junior, who avergames last season, senior aged more than 19 points per forward Elijah Bovell, who game in 2015-16, is approaching earned All-Conference hon1,000 career points along with ors, made big strides during the program’s all-time career the summer and can be danscoring mark. “She’s so explogerous in the halfcourt and sive to the basket and probably transition. He’s 6-foot-2 with

By TONy BELLISSIMO

O

6 — December 22, 2016

the best on the Island in transition,” Catapano said.

“Her first step is so fast she can get separation from any defender.”

Junior point guard Jenna Annecchiarico, a Second Team All-L.I. selection, averaged 13 points per game while providing tenacious defense.

“She’s as complete a player as you’re going to find,” Catapano said. “Her defense is topnotch and she’s going to be more aggressive offensively.”

Sophomore Kaia Harrison has expanded her all-around game and grown four inches, making her the coach’s breakout candidate for this season. Senior Montia Moon is another talented and hard-

Elijah Bovell

Elcock, Meaghan George and Kezzy Wingate, and freshman Elena Randolph.

Schedule

Matt Guilfoyle

BoyS December

20 East Meadow 22 Port Washington

6:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 4 6 13 17 18 20 28

@ V.S. Central Plainview @ Hicksville Westbury @ East Meadow @ Port Washington V.S. Central

6:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

February Jenna Annecchiarico working guard who does all the little things not found in a boxscore.

With the return of senior Sarah Pulis, sidelined last season with an injury, it’s almost as though the Lady Bruins have five starters back. Pulis can put the ball in the basket and help apply the defensive pressure.

Other key contributors will be junior Sarah Henry, seniors Kayla Brown, Nadia

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1 @ Plainview 7 Hicksville 10 @ Westbury

5:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 East Meadow 22 @ Port Washington

January

4 7 13 17 18 20 28

V.S. Central @ Plainview Hicksville @ Westbury @ East Meadow Port Washington @ V.S. Central

8:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

February 1 Plainview 7 @ Hicksville 10 Westbury

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

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December 22, 2016 — 7

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

CalHoun Returning trio leads Colts’ charge

H

By JOSEPH KELLARD

ead coach Jay Kreutzberger looks to build on his Calhoun boys’ basketball team’s seven victories last season after posting one win the year before. He will count on three key returnees and forwards to continue the rebuilding project.

Patrick Gardner, a 6-foot-7 senior who averaged 13 points and netted 30 three-pointers last season, and junior Jalen Rosemond, who also has a reliable three-point game and can penetrate to the basket, will lead the way.

“Patrick can shoot from three-point range, and Jalen is a well-rounded player,” Kreutzberger said.

Completing the trio is senior Thomas Cummings, whose aggressive play led to All Conference honors last season. Cummings averaged 10.6 points per game as a junior and could provide more in 2016-17. “Tommy is very strong at driving the ball into the paint,” Kreutzberger said.

The Colts employ a motion offense to move players around and create space, especially for a pair of sophomore shooting guards.

Thomas Casimano, the team’s speediest player, excels on transitions, and Corey Jones, a first-year varsity player, is aggressive offensively.

“We expect him to be a significant contributor,” Kreutzberger said of Jones.

Important players coming off the bench include two point guards, junior Bobby Stokel, another varsity newcomer who is a talented rebounder with great intangibles and energy, and senior Dylan Mulcahy, a skilled player who sees the floor exceptionally well.

8 — December 22, 2016

Other senior bench players who are expected to make key contributions are Kyle Schwemle, Dan Schmitz and Nick Strezenec.

Among the Conference AA/A-III teams Kreuzberger is highlighting on Calhoun’s schedule are Mepham and Herricks. The coach also scheduled challenging nonleague opponents he hopes to compete with including Kellenberg, Farmingdale and East Meadow.

Kreutzberger said there is “tremendous excitement” about this year’s team that he expects will at least post double-digit wins during the regular season. What it will take for him to make a fifth trip to the postseason in his tenth year coaching the team?

“We have to jell,” he said.

“It’s a talented group. The better we become at playing at both ends, we’ll go far.”

she’s developed into a nice point guard,” Magnuson said.

Rounding out the starting lineup are another pair of juniors, guard Chris Argentieri, who has developed a sweet outside shot, and Lauren Pitti, a standout rebounder who can also knock them down.

Backup Victoria Gallo is a 5-foot-7 senior forward whose inside game has caught her coach’s eye. Point guard Lauren Marinello is another senior who will coming off the bench as she returns to the court two years after suffering an ACL injury.

Julia Miguel, Megan Schiaffo and Megan Keener will contribute to the basic motion offensive system and manto-man defense that the Lady Colts likes to run.

Calhoun will compete in Conference AA2/A3. The

Campbell scored 12 points.

“I find getting the girls to play hard all the time and play harder than they think they can play is the challenge for us,” he said. “Playing with tenacity, grit, and energy is the goal for us each year.”

Schedule

Calhoun Girls Basketball In his first season coaching varsity girls’ basketball last winter, Pete Magnuson brought his sophomoreheavy squad to the quarterfinals, only to fall to Baldwin, the eventual county champions.

Magnuson in his second season will rely on his experienced juniors. Among them is Honora Campbell, a guard and forward that averaged 13 points a game last year and who her coach calls “a very skilled player and an excellent shooter with a great basketball IQ.” Katie Healy is another junior and forward who averaged as many points per game as Campbell.

“She is a stud athlete,” Magnuson said of Healy.

Senior Dana Brown returns as the Lady Colts’ AllConference performer. “Dana is a defensive machine, and

Dana Brown

BoyS December 20 MacArthur 23 Herricks

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 4 7 13 16 18 20 28

@ Manhasset Mepham @ Long Beach G.N. South @ MacArthur @ Herricks Manhasset

6:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

February Patrick Gardner competitive league features neighborhood rival Mepham along with MacArthur, Long Beach, Great Neck South, Herricks and Manhasset.

Magnuson believes his team has to generate consistently good play each game to improve on last year’s 12-9 record and head further into the playoffs. The Lady Colts defeated Oceanside, 47-46, in a thrilling first-round playoff matchup last February. Healy won it with a late basket, and

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1 @ Mepham 7 Long Beach 10 @ G.N. South

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 @ MacArthur 23 @ Herricks

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 4 7 13 16 20 27 30

Manhasset @ Mepham Long Beach @ G.N. South Herricks @ Manhasset MacArthur

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 1 Mepham 7 @ Long Beach 9 G.N. South

6:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

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December 22, 2016 — 9

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

CArey Carey hoping to be respectable

By ANDREW MccLURE

A

fter back-to-back appearances in the Nassau Class A Final Four, Carey won just four games in 2015-16. The Seahawks once again will compete in Conference A1 with defending state champion Elmont, Sewanhaka, Bellmore JFK, Great Neck North, Jericho, and Garden City.

With a dearth of size, a team composed of mostly sophomores and juniors will rely heavily on its ability to shoot from the perimeter. A difficult non-league schedule includes Hempstead, Lindenhurst, Kellenberg, and Farmingdale and will get the Seahawks ready for the conference slate.

Despite a tough road, head coach Marty Kelly believes his team could be in the hunt for a postseason berth. “We’re young and inexperienced, but I think we have enough athletes to be competitive,” Kelly said. “There won’t be any easy ones, but there’s no reason to think we can’t compete for a spot in the playoffs.

If we don’t turn the ball over, and shoot the ball like we can from the outside, we should be able to stay in games.”

Junior Aidan Murchie is a skilled 6-foot-2 guard who can shoot the lights out. Murchie, who missed all of last season with an injury, passes the ball well and has excellent court sense. Sophomore Nick Giacolone does a little of everything, He goes to the basket well, and does a good job on the defensive end of the floor.

Senior guard Kyle DeMeo gives max effort at all times, and is a threat from the perimeter. He’s a big asset when the team is applying pressure on defense. T.J. Orlandino, a 6-2 junior forward, is a strong shooter and 10 — December 22, 2016

will pull down his share of rebounds.

Sincere Nelson is a hardworking senior guard. If he isn’t in the starting lineup, Nelson figures to be the first player off the bench. Junior forward Mike McNamee has a knack for scoring. Junior Jeremy Pulle and senior Shaheem Taylor-White provide depth at guard.

Carey gets rebounding and inside scoring presence from 6-4 junior Frank Porcasi. Matt Cosgrove, a 6-5 sophomore, gives Carey more size in the frontcourt. Kelly believes both players have tremendous upside.

Defense a key for Lady Seahawks It’s a new day for the Carey girls. After a season that yielded six wins, the Lady Seahawks welcome in a new head coach who is looking to right the ship with a defensive philosophy.

Things will not be easy for Carey in the schedule department. Playing in the always tough Conference A1 means a couple of meetings with defending league champion and county runner-up Elmont, Sewanhaka, and Garden City.

After four years at the helm of the junior varsity, Liz Crawford takes over as head coach replacing Theresa Schmidt. Crawford knows that success won’t come overnight.

“We have a lot of raw individual talent that needs to be molded into a unit,” Crawford said. “It’s a process, and it’s going to take time. A lot of girls have to adjust to new positions and new roles.

Defense is going to be our strength. If we’re successful, it’s because we defended well.”

Point guard Maria D’Amato returns after sitting out her sophomore year.

D’Amato can penetrate and get to the basket, and her excellent court vision enables her to find open teammates. Crawford expects the scrappy junior to control the pace of the game.

Junior Alexa Rescigno, a three-year varsity performer, will be the team’s top threat from the perimeter. Like D’Amato, Rescigno is an intelligent player who defends well. Junior Lauren Pitz played the point for two seasons on the junior varsity. She’ll see time at both the wing and point.

Junior Meghan Santina is a hard-nosed, versatile player who will play both guard and forward.

The Lady Seahawks get a burst of energy every time sophomore Jenna Lim is on the floor. Lim

Aidan Murchie

Schedule

BoyS December 19 @ G.N. North 23 Kennedy

7:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

January 3 11 13 17 19 21 27

@ Sewanhaka Garden City @ Jericho Elmont G.N. North @ Kennedy Sewanhaka

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

February Alexa Rescigno gets after it on defense and can hit the open shot. Junior Corinna Salerno is a tough, defensive-minded player Junior Frankie Cirone is a dual threat. Cirone doesn’t shy away from contact in the paint, and has a soft touch from the perimeter. Senior Aylin Ciftcikal is working hard at improving her ability in the frontcourt. Cirone and Ciftcikal should control the boards.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 @ Garden City 6 @ Elmont 8 Jericho

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

19 G.N. North 22 @ Kennedy

4:30 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

GIRLS December January

3 11 13 17 19 21 27

Sewanhaka @ Garden City Jericho @ Elmont @ G.N. North Kennedy @ Sewanhaka

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

February 3 Garden City 6 Elmont 8 @ Jericho

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Clarke Seniors hold key to Rams’ success

By JOSEPH KELLARD

C

larke looks to improve on last year’s 4-15 boys’ basketball season with five seniors slated for starting roles after earning valuable minutes off the bench last winter.

Shooting guard Austin Widing and his brother, Ryan, a small forward, along with center Eric Sathue, point guard Jimmy Posillico and power forward Matt Boyko are motivated for larger roles in their final season.

The Rams’ top player, Austin Widing will look to build on his 11-point scoring average. “Austin is pretty good as a spot-up shooter and gets to the basket,” said rookie head coach Joe Hasbrouck.

While Ryan Widing excels in man-to-man defense, Posillico moves the ball up court quickly and gets to the basket.

Boyko can stretch the floor and has a reliable jump shot, and the 6-foot-4, 205-pound Sathue has a soft touch around the rim and a 10-foot jumper. “Our offense is going to come from playing a little more space and guard than last year,” Hasbrouck said.

The big man off the bench is junior Kyle Kandel, a 6-4, 225-pound center who is the team’s main rebounder and will substitute for Sathue.

Other key contributors are brothers Besnik and Arton Dalipi. Besnik, a shooting guard and small forward, while good at the defensive end of the floor, is valued more for the senior leadership he brings to the 13-man roster. “Besnik has a good head for the game; he helps to settle us down a little bit,” his coach said.

Arton is an energetic sophomore whose intangibles include plenty of pass deflections and rebounds.

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Up-and-coming players include Jesse Goodman, Samir Pejcinovic and Josh Dawson. Clarke will face North Shore and Valley Stream South, newcomers to the realigned Conference A4. But Hasbrouck is more concerned with familiar foes such as Island Trees and Friends Academy. He believes his players will need to focus on the defensive side.

“We like to push the ball in transition when we can,” he said. “But also stay consistent within our offense and not get spread out and rattled and sped up.”

Lady Rams eye coveted playoff spot Lady Rams head coach Shaun Fean is expecting a lot from certain players this season to help his team finally break through the door to the postseason.

At 7-12 last winter, the Lady Rams were two conference wins short of a playoff berth, a similar finish to the season before.

Junior guard Sonia Iacoboni, who averaged 11 points per game, is among the starters Fean expects will improve considerably. During the offseason, Iacoboni worked on using her athleticism and speed to attack the basket instead of settling for jumpers. “We’ll definitely ask Sonia to step into an even larger role,” Fean said.

Emily Carman, a sophomore power forward, is looked on to be more of a post threat, having generated a couple of double-doubles last season. “That’s something we’re hoping she can take a step forward and show that more often,” Fean said.

Junior center-forward Kayla Famillette is expected to bring even greater toughness in the post, and junior shooting guard Nicole Zappala must be a steady force

in the backcourt and knock down some outside shots.

The fifth starter is Graceann Murphy, a freshman point guard who her coaches believe can create opportunities for teammates as they look for her to develop a more consistent jump shot.

“We know that we’re kind of throwing Graceann into a roll as a young player that is a tough spot to play,” Fean said. “But she’s done nothing to make us think that she can’t handle it.”

Forward Michelle Barahona, the team’s lone senior and best defender, brings flexible matchup abilities off the bench. Other contributors include sophomore guard Haley Singer, a lefty who is a top shooter, and junior Jes-

Michelle Barahona

Schedule

Matt GuilfOyle

BoyS December

19 @ Mineola 22 North Shore

6:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 3 11 14 17 19 21 27

@ Island Trees 6:45 p.m.

V.S. South 7:00 p.m. @ Friends Academy 1:00 p.m.

West Hempstead 7:00 p.m.

Mineola 7:00 p.m. @ North Shore 10:00 a.m.

Island Trees 7:00 p.m.

February Austin Widing sica Baum, a scrappy guard who is the first to dive for a loose ball.

The Lady Rams employ a flex offense that is heavy on cuts and screens and will rely on a solid defense.

“We need to be tougher in closing out games and handling ball pressure and not turning the ball over and knocking down free throws,” he said.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 @ V.S. South 7:30 p.m.

8 Friends Academy 7:00 p.m.

10 @ West Hempstead 6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 Mineola 22 @ North Shore

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 11 12 17 19 20 27

Island Trees @ V.S. South Friends Academy @ West Hempstead @ Mineola North Shore @ Island Trees

7:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

February 3 V.S. South 7:00 p.m.

8 @ Friends Academy 6:30 p.m.

10 West Hempstead 6:00 p.m.

Photos by Keith O’Reilly

December 22, 2016 — 11

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

EAst MEAdow Seniors provide fuel for Jets

By JOSEPH KELLARD

A

fter a 10-10 record and a loss to Westbury in the Class AA quarterfinals last season, East Meadow boys’ basketball team is poised to exceed .500 ball and push deeper into the playoffs with a senior-heavy starting five.

J.R. Howell, a senior point guard who plays fast and penetrates off the dribble, will lead the way. “And J.R. makes great decisions,” said Bobby Kopp, a first-year head coach with the Jets after his eightyear stint coaching Syosset.

Senior guard-forward Nick Forrier drives and defends the ball well. “Nick is someone who plays with a lot of energy,” Kopp noted.

Other starters include Will Ayers, a senior center who is known for his rebounding and passing, and Sultan Mizra, a 6-foot-3 sophomore guard-forward who is quick in transition and a good passer.

A trio of players is vying for the fifth starting spot.

Kyle Leibel is a senior twoguard who is a good on-ball defender and an exceptional shooter. Senior guard-forward Emeka Ewolu is valued for his toughness, especially on defense. Sophomore point guard Harry Nicholson, who shows good one-on-one moves, has garnered a reputation as a good defender.

Kopp expects to use mostly eight to nine players from his 15-man roster. Other contributors include John Fuchs and Jake Buchar.

The Jets run a continuity system on offense that emphasizes cutting, passing and pick-and-roll to create spacing.

“We want everybody getting touches, everybody looking to score, everybody look12 — December 22, 2016

ing to contribute,” Kopp said.

On defense, East Meadow plays man-to-man with heavy doses of pressure. “We’re going to be up full-court pressing for a majority of the game,” he said.

East Meadow competes in Conference AA2 along with county champions Baldwin, Hicksville, Plainview, Port Washington, Valley Stream Central and Westbury.

“The conference is very tough, top to bottom,” Kopp said.

What will they need to do to compete? Kopp and his assistants talk each day with their players about three ingredients to winning: adopt a team-first mentality, play with energy, and make your teammates better. “Everything else will take care of itself,” he added.

Lady Jets boast strong 1-2 punch East Meadow’s girls’ team will center around two outstanding players.

Emily Shurina, a junior shooting guard/forward, averaged 22 points per game and earned All-County honors as she lead the Lady Jets to the playoffs last season.

Beside her shooting abilities, the 5-foot-9 Shurina excels as a slasher to the basket, passer and defender.

She is 250 points shy of 1,000 for her career that, if reached, would make her the program’s all-time leading scorer. “Emily is a once in a 20-year player,” said head coach Pete Olenik, who has coached the sport for more than two decades.

East Meadow also boasts an All-Conference returnee in Hannah Arbuse, a junior guard who is a good ball handler and passer, creates shots and plays intelligently on defense.

Olenik praises his players who know exactly how

they fit within the team. One of them is sophomore point guard Alyssa Yablansky, who handles and shoots the ball well. “She knows her role in the offense is to get the ball to Emily and Hannah,” Olenik said.

Another role player is Nicole Giblin, a junior forward who knows to grab rebounds and play exceptional defense. Her coach would be satisfied if she averaged 8 points and 8 rebounds a game.

Senior forward Val Rios may have to compete to remain the fifth starter as the season unfolds. But Olenik believes she’s earned the spot, especially since she’s the best captain he’s ever coached.

“Val leads by example, verbally, and from in front and behind the scenes,” he said.

“She’s a complete, 100 percent leader.”

J.R. Howell this team that I think is an intangible that will drive them to that next step and to double-digit wins,” he said.

Matt GuilfOyle Schedule

BoyS December

20 @ Baldwin 23 Hicksville

6:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 5 10 12 16 18 20 27

@ Westbury Port Washington @ V.S. Central Plainview Baldwin @ Hicksville Westbury

6:45 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

February Emily Shurina The Lady Jets’ top reserves include freshman center Danielle Hippner, junior forward Hellen Flores, and senior guard Alyssa Fernandez.

Olenik believes he has his best team in his fourth year at East Meadow, which remained in Conference AA-II. He expects this squad will surpass last year’s 6-12 overall record.

“There’s just a sense of closeness and togetherness on

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 @ Port Washington 7 V.S. Central 10 @ Plainview

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 @ Baldwin 23 @ Hicksville

8:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

January 4 10 14 16 18 20 28

Westbury 4:30 p.m. @ Port Washington 6:45 p.m.

V.S. Central 10:00 a.m. @ Plainview 11:45 a.m.

Baldwin 4:30 p.m.

Hicksville 4:30 p.m. @ Westbury 10:00 a.m.

February 4 Port Washington 7 @ V.S. Central 10 Plainview

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Keith O’Reilly

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 22, 2016 — 13

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

EasT Rockaway Rocks need contributions from all

By TONy BELLISSIMO

T

he Rocks saw all-time scoring leader Danny Fusco graduate along with three other starters from a team that finished 7-14 and lost to Story Brook in the Long Island Class C title game.

The theme for this season, longtime head coach Joe Lores said, is getting consistent contributions from everyone at both ends of the floor. East Rockaway is part of a rugged Conference ABC along with Carle Place, Cold Spring Harbor, Locust Valley, Malverne, Oyster Bay, Seaford and Wheatley. Locust Valley and Seaford are returning playoff teams in Class A, while Oyster Bay is the defending Class B champ.

“We only have three returnees to the roster, so we’ll have a different look and a different approach,” Lores said. “I can’t remember replacing this many kids at one time, but that’s the challenge and fun of coaching.

We had 48 kids at tryouts and kept 13 on varsity.”

Senior Nick Parziale is the Rocks’ lone returning starter and will look to account for some of the scoring Fusco provided. He’s a reliable outside threat who’s improving defensively, Lores said.

Back after missing last season due to injury is senior Tommy Rogers, who quarterbacked the football team to the playoffs. He’s a three-sport athlete with leadership qualities. “He’s one of a number of guys we’ll use at the point,” Lores said. “He’s solid on defense and handles the ball well.”

Sophomore Chris Levins is likely to begin the season running the offense after doing so at the JV level. “He loves the sport as much as anyone and 14 — December 22, 2016

can protect the ball and chip in offensively,” Lores said.

Up front, junior John Pelletiere learned a lot last season and appears in line for a bigger role as a starter. He’s a 6-foot-3 center with rebounding and scoring ability. Sophomore Dylan Henshaw averaged 12 points per game for the JV squad and brings athleticism as he vies for starting minutes. Senior Devin Ralph is the team’s inspiration and ready to contribute at forward after successfully battling a cancer diagnosis over recent months.

Lady Rocks ready to roll

With four starters back from their Long Island Class C championship team, the Lady Rocks have plenty of pieces in place as they face a challenging schedule and seek to improve an 11-11 record.

“The new conference setup with some bigger schools will help us in the long run,” head coach Karin Leary said. “We’re bringing back a lot of experience and also have a tough non-league schedule with Lynbrook, Garden City, Farmingdale and Carle Place.”

Center Alessia Drevnyak, who poured in 15 points and grabbed 17 rebounds in East Rockaway’s 40-36 victory over Pierson for the L.I. crown, enters her fourth season as a starter. An All-County selection as a junior, she brings smarts and leadership to the court. She averaged 15 points and 11 rebounds, and blocked 115 shots. “She’s our key player to watch,” Leary said. “We’re expecting more big things even though she’s going to be the focus of everyone’s defense.”

Sophomore forward Brooke DeGuilio was the team’s second-leading scorer and rebounder and earned

All-Conference honors. “She’s got strong fundamentals and works well in the paint with Alessia,” Leary said.

Junior small forward Rachel O’Hagan is a tough defender who’s looking to become more aggressive on the offensive end of the court.

Senior Marina Drevnyak and sophomore Emily Chelius will be counted on to help on the glass and provide depth in the frontcourt.

At guard, junior Rachel Graves returns to run the offense from the point. She’s a crafty lefty who likes to get out on the fast break and drive to the basket. “She distributes well and defends well,” Leary said. “She’s play-

Alessia Drevnyak

Locust Valley, Malverne, Oyster Bay, Seaford and Wheatley twice apiece.

Schedule

BoyS December 20 Carle Place 23 @ Oyster Bay

7:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 4 6 10 13 16 18 20 28

Malverne @ Wheatley C.S. Harbor @ Locust Valley Seaford @ Carle Place Oyster Bay @ Malverne

7:15 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

February Nick Parziale ing with more confidence with all of last year’s experience under her belt.”

Sophomore guard Juliet McCarthy is an outside shooting threat with smooth mechanics and long range.

She earned a varsity call-up midway through last season. Seniors Jessica Loyer and Michelle Sheridan, and sophomore Kailey Hyland will also see time in the backcourt.

The Lady Rocks face Carle Place, Cold Spring Harbor,

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1 4 7 10

Wheatley @ C.S. Harbor Locust Valley @ Seaford

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 @ Carle Place 22 Oyster Bay

7:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

January 4 6 10 12 16 18 20 27

@ Malverne Wheatley @ C.S. Harbor Locust Valley @ Seaford Carle Place @ Oyster Bay Malverne

6:00 p.m.

5:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

February 1 4 7 9

@ Wheatley C.S. Harbor @ Locust Valley Seaford

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 22, 2016 — 15

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Elmont State champion Spartans look to reload

E

By ANDREW MccLURE

lmont comes off the finest season in program history. After winning their fourth straight conference title, the Spartans went on a playoff run for the ages, bringing home the state Class A championship in dominant fashion. Elmont finished with an overall record of 24-4.

Few players with varsity experience return for Elmont, which will again play a killer non-league schedule that includes Deer Park, Chaminade, Half Hollow Hills East and Bay Shore.

Garden City and Sewanhaka will be among the team’s foes in Conference A1, which is considered by many to be the fiercest in the county.

“We’re very young, so it’s going to take some time to figure out what we have and who we are,” head coach George Holub said. “We’re going to do what we always do; play up tempo and defend. We have a lot of guys who are interchangeable. They’re fighting for time. Practice has become a battle every day. The guys are realizing that they have to get after it to earn their spot on the court.”

Junior KC Ndefo, who had 10 points and 13 rebounds in the state title victory over Troy, returns for his third season with the varsity. Ndefo has extraordinary athletic ability. He worked hard in the off-season to improve his perimeter game and will spend more time outside the key.

Junior Victor Olawoye, the team’s best shooter, will move to the point. Olawoye, who averaged 6.3 points per game as a sophomore, knocked down 20 threes in 2015-16.

Another junior, William Cook, a 6-foot-1 slasher who can take it to the rack, joins 16 — December 22, 2016

Ndefo and Olawoye in the backcourt.

Ismael Astasie will have a bigger role as a junior.

Astasie has the ability to get to the basket, and also has a nice mid-range game. Junior Jaylin Miller is an excellent defender who can really stroke the ball from the outside.

The Spartans don’t have a ton of size, but senior Vincent McDonald gives them an inside presence. McDonald will be looked upon to put a body on opponents in the paint and pull down rebounds.

Lady Spartans among the elite

The Elmont girls haven’t lost a league game since the 2013-14 season, and expect to, once again, be the team to beat Nassau Conference A1.

All but one player returns to a team that went on a playoff run that didn’t end until it fell to eventual state finalist Floral Park in the Class A county championship game.

Tom Magno, in his 10th season as head coach at Elmont, has a relatively young team, but it isn’t lacking in experience.

“It’s different from the standpoint of the girls having a much better understanding of what we’re teaching and what we’re looking for,” Magno said. “I feel good about this group. There are a lot of good teams. We know nothing is going to be given to us. We’re excited to get things going.”

Junior Kem Nwabadu, one of three players to average 10 or more points a year ago, should be real tough to contain. The 5-foot-11 power forward, a two-time AllCounty honoree has been the model of consistency, tallying double figures in 30 games over the past two seasons. An improved perimeter game

makes Nwabudu even more dangerous.

Junior point guard Zhaneia Thybulle is terrific at putting teammates in position to score, and had four 20-point games of her own. Thybulle, who averaged 13 points per game, is a tremendous defensive player, has worked hard on her outside shooting.

Sophomore Gigi Faison (10 ppg) can be effective at any of the five positions on the floor.

Senior Kiera Holland disrupts at the top of the Elmont defense and does a great job getting out on the break.

Heady junior Jada Fernandez has a strong mid-range game and has made considerable improvement in her ball handling.

The Lady Spartans group of reserves is a little deeper than last season.

Victor Olawoye

Schedule BoyS December 19 @ Garden City 22 Jericho

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 6 11 13 17 19 21 31

@ G.N. North Kennedy Sewanhaka @ Carey Garden City @ Jericho G.N. North

6:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

February Zhaneia Thybulle Junior Zarria Franklin and senior Samantha Williams are both solid shooters who should see plenty of minutes. Senior Tahisha Jocelyn, one of the team’s most improved players, and sophomore Alexis Stewart provide depth in the frontcourt.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 @ Kennedy 6 Carey 8 @ Sewanhaka

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 Garden City 22 @ Jericho

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 6 11 13 17 19 21 31

G.N. North @ Kennedy @ Sewanhaka Carey @ Garden City Jericho @ G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

February 3 Kennedy 6 @ Carey 8 Sewanhaka

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

2016-17

Nassau CouNty BasketBall

CONFERENCE AA-I

• Farmingdale • Freeport • Hempstead • Massapequa • Oceanside • Syosset • Uniondale

CONFERENCE AA-II • Baldwin • East Meadow • Hicksville • Plainview • Port Washington • V.S. Central • Westbury

CONFERENCE AA/A-III

• Calhoun • Great Neck South • Herricks • Long Beach • MacArthur • Manhasset • Mepham

CONFERENCE A-I

• Bellmore-JFK • Garden City • Great Neck North • Carey • Elmont • Jericho • Sewanhaka

CONFERENCE A-IV

• Clarke • Friends Academy • Island Trees • Mineola • North Shore • V.S. South • West Hempstead

CONFERENCE A-II

• Division • Hewlett • New Hyde Park • Roosevelt • Roslyn • South Side • Wantagh

CONFERENCE ABC

• Carle Place • Cold Spring Harbor • East Rockaway • Locust Valley • Malverne • Oyster Bay • Seaford • Wheatley

CONFERENCE A-III

• Bethpage • Floral Park • Glen Cove • Lawrence • Lynbrook • Plainedge • V.S. North

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Aziah Hudson, Baldwin High School Photo by Jeff Wilson

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 22, 2016 — 17

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Freeport Red Devils quick and athletic

t

By ANDREW MccLURE

he Freeport boys have enjoyed two consecutive seasons of 15 or more victories, both of which ended with losses in the Nassau County Class AA semifinals.

The Red Devils lost a lot of size and nearly 90 percent of their scoring from 201516. With a tough non-league schedule, and a conference composed of Uniondale, Hempstead, Massapequa, Oceanside, Farmingdale, and Syosset, there will no easy nights for the Red Devils.

Larry Steimer, in his second year as head coach, will have to approach things a little different from the way he handled his senior-laden team a year ago. “We lost nearly everyone, and don’t have the big bodies that we had last year,” Steimer said. “We’re going to press and trap, and look to maximize our possessions and run quick hitters.”

Guard Rajah Mayo, who put up a career-high 16 points in the playoff loss to Westbury, played his best in big games. Mayo shoots well from the field, and can take his man off the dribble and get to the basket. He averaged nearly eight points per game in a supporting role as a junior.

Junior Chris Gross will run the point for the Red Devils, who upset third-seeded Uniondale in the quarterfinal round of last year’s playoffs, 49-47. Gross is strong, athletic, and possesses solid ball handling skill. He’s most effective when he’s driving to the hole.

Steimer believes Gross has tremendous upside.

Senior guard Reggie Nash can get real hot from the perimeter. He’ll be one of the team’s top three-point threats.

Senior Tyreece Middleton is an excellent defender who 18 — December 22, 2016

provides depth at both guard positions.

Senior Terryl Cowan is the biggest forward in the starting lineup. Cowan is an intelligent player who handles the ball well. Keian Montaque, a 6-foot-6 senior, provides defense and rebounding.

“I like this group,” Steimer said. “They’re working hard, and getting accustomed to playing roles that they haven’t been in before. As usual, the conference is going to be tough. To keep pace, we’re really going to have to get after it.”

Lady Red Devils should be improved

Despite a tough season in 2015-16, the Lady Devils showed a lot of promise.

Freeport didn’t qualify for the playoffs for the first time in ages, but saw its young players gain a ton of valuable varsity experience.

With their top scorer and a talented group of athletic players returning, the Lady Devils should be considerably stronger. Freeport will once again compete in Conference AA-I, a league that produced three of the four county semifinalists in 201516.

Head coach Meredith Jones likes her team’s approach. “These girls understand what it’s going to take to be successful,” Jones said. “They’re motivated, and they want it. Our best offense is going to be our defense.

We’re going to play pressure defense, and look to create turnovers and convert them into layups. We’re feeling good about things.”

Point guard Maya Thomas returns as the go-to player for the Lady Devils, who are looking for a positive start.

Thomas averaged 13.8 points and eight steals per game, and had multiple triple-doubles as a junior. She handles the ball

well, drives and dishes, and is the team’s best perimeter shooter.

Freeport gets size and talent from Taylor Abraham.

The 5-foot-11 freshman, in her third year with the varsity, is tough to stop in the post, has strong basketball IQ, and pulls down a ton of rebounds.

Junior Ceniya Nicholas is a steady performer in the frontcourt.

Junior Bianca Benjamin is a versatile performer who takes pride in being a stalwart on the defensive end.

She will play both guard positions, and can knock down shots from the perimeter.

Senior Phalan Smith can also play multiple positions. Smith handles the ball well, and is a threat inside and from the perimeter.

A couple of talented sophomores give the Lady Devils

Maya Thomas

Schedule BoyS December 20 Farmingdale 23 @ Massapequa

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 5 6 10 12 18 20 28

Hempstead @ Oceanside @ Syosset Uniondale @ Farmingdale Massapequa @ Hempstead

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

February Rajah Mayo depth at guard. Deavion Peterson brings constant energy and ball handling skill, while Tiona Parker provides perimeter scoring and all-around guard play.

Senior Kimberly Serna, the valedictorian of the Class of 2017, is a tough, dependable guard. Hard-working junior Curtisha Hewitt gives the team depth inside.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1 Oceanside 4 Syosset 7 @ Uniondale

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 @ Farmingdale 23 Massapequa

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

January 4 7 10 13 18 20 28 31

@ Hempstead Oceanside Syosset @ Uniondale Farmingdale @ Massapequa Hempstead @ Oceanside

4:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February 3 @ Syosset 7 Uniondale

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

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December 22, 2016 — 19

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Hewlett Bulldogs are built for success coach said. “He’s also our best defender,” Dubin noted.

The return of seniors Wyatt McMahon and Jordan ver the past three Carlo to the program provides seasons, Hewlett has Hewlett with much-needed reached the Nassau depth in the frontcourt.

Class A championship game At guard, senior Logan and suffered back-to-back one- Steinberg has an impressive point playoff defeats includhandle, sees the court well ing a 48-47 decision to South and is a quality defender Side in last year’s semifinals. at the point. Junior Luca Can the Bulldogs break Preziosi, who can also handle through and win it all this responsibilities at the point, season? comes off a stellar soccer “We have a good amount campaign and can score of experience and strong in a variety of ways on the chemistry,” coach Bill Dubin hardwood as well. Sophomore said. “Everyone’s playing nice Jason Barry, a JV standout in the sandbox. The kids are last winter, is well-rounded confident they can be a good and aggressive to the basket. team and they want to win.

We’re in a tough conference, Experience a key for so we’re not the only team Lady Bulldogs with high expectations.”

The Lady Bulldogs enter Hewlett went 12-10 overall their second campaign under in 2015-16 and knocked off head coach Rich DeSanto fourth-seeded Island Trees and No. 5 Seaford in the play- with more experience, more offs. “We’re balanced,” Dubin offseason work and a better understanding of the compesaid. “We were last season tition in Conference A-II. too, but we’re more experi“We started last season enced now.”

Senior 6-foot-6 center Zach at three-quarters speed,” DeSanto said. “The second Bromfeld, an All-County time around the schedule, we selection who averaged 15 were much more competitive. points and 12 rebounds per This season we want to comgame, leads the effort in the pete in every single game. We frontcourt. “He’s not going have nine seniors and it’s a to sneak up on anybody after what he did last year, but he’s tight-knit team.”

Hewlett managed just got the ability to dominate,” once conference victory in Dubin said. “He’s an intel2015-16, but with the excepligent player we expect to give us a double-double every tion of Division played everyone tougher in the second game.” meetings. For example, the Junior Matt Mannino, Lady Bulldogs scored 62 more who provided a spark off points combined in rematches the bench as a sophomore, is ready to assume a bigger role with South Side, Wantagh, as the starting power forward. Roosevelt and Plainedge.

DeSanto is looking for a He’s athletic, can run the floor, score and rebound. Like balanced offensive attack and for senior center Jessica Bromfeld, junior Alyjah Hill Keeler to lead the defensive earned All-County honors charge. “We’re leaning on her after averaging 15 points, 10 for leadership, defense and rebounds and 5 assists per rebounding,” he said. “One of game. He’s a dynamic twothe main things we need to do way forward who’s difficult better is limit opponents’ secto guard and unselfish, the

O

By TONy BELLISSIMO

20 — December 22, 2016

ond chances.”

Senior forward Kylie Halpern, who missed most of last season with an ankle injury, can be a solid offensive threat.

“She’s a gamer,” DeSanto said. Another important piece to the frontcourt is senior Kristen DeCico, a strong twoway player and tireless worker who can shoot, rebound and dribble.

In the backcourt, sophomore Samantha Panzarella, who scored 16 points in last season’s win over Roslyn, enters her third varsity campaign. “Basketball is her main sport and she plays outside of school,” DeSanto said. “She’s a mentally tough and smart player who defends well and has a nice mid-range jumper.”

Alyjah Hill

20 points in a game against Division last winter. Senior Erin Schechter, who can play guard or forward, brings leadership qualities and steady play at both ends of the floor.

Schedule

Matt Guilfoyle BoyS

December

19 South Side 22 Roslyn

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 6 14 17 19 21 28 31

@ Division Wantagh @ New Hyde Park Roosevelt @ South Side @ Roslyn Division @ Wantagh

6:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February Jessica Keeler Panzarella will run the point, though DeSanto is hopeful senior Alex Levy can return from a knee injury and bolster the backcourt around mid-January. “She really wants to be out there with her teammates,” the coach said of the reliable Levy.

Senior guard Jessica Sillberger is a consistent shooter and a dangerous three-point threat. She hit for more than

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

8 New Hyde Park 11 @ Roosevelt

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 @ South Side 22 @ Roslyn

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 6 14 17 19 21 27 31

Division @ Wantagh New Hyde Park @ Roosevelt South Side Roslyn @ Division Wantagh

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 8 @ New Hyde Park 10 Roosevelt

6:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 22, 2016 — 21

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Kennedy Cougars will spread the wealth bit of everything in the frontcourt, especially defense and rebounds. Junior Ian Kranis is a lefty guard who can score from the outside.

Life in A-I won’t be easy for the Cougars. Defending New York State champion Elmont leads the pack. Garden City, Great Neck North, Carey, Sewanhaka and Jericho add to the challenge.

“Non-league is always important to us,” Block said.

“We’ll look to build some confidence and tighten up the defense. I think we’ll move well with the ball.”

nedy won nine games overall.

“She’s our most seasoned player and looks very calm under pressure,” resh off an appearance Palmieri said. in the Nassau Class A “She’s aggresboys’ basketball playoffs sive to the after going 6-8 in a rugged basket.”

Conference A-I, the Cougars Torchia’s boast decent experience with backup is sophoeight varsity returnees and more Gabrielle need offensive contributions Lewin, a lefty who’s been from everyone, head coach impressive in camp and pushRory Block said. ing for starting time. Lewin “It’s one of those seasons could also provide a defenwhere we have to spread sive spark off the bench. the wealth when it comes to “She’s the fastest kid on scoring,” Block said. “I don’t the floor,” Palmieri said. know exactly where all of Junior Carly Wills is our offense is going to come Familiar face leads one of the team’s most from.”

Lady Cougars tenacious defenders Some points are bound to A former three-sport stand- and can get to the basbe provided by senior guard/ out for the Lady Cougars and ket. Junior forward Rose forward Josh Eisner, a lefty a former volunteer assistant Mehani sometimes operates who can knock down shots basketball coach at her alma as a guard and brings quality from behind the arc and help the Cougars stretch a defense. mater a handful of seasons “Josh can shoot and has lead- ago, Mallory Palmieri takes over the helm of a team comership qualities that’ll go a long way with a pretty young ing off a respectable 6-8 finish in Conference A-I. team,” Block said. “If left “I’m excited to be back alone, he can be dangerous.” here and passionate about Senior Matt Muscarella can play either guard spot and the program,” she said.

“We’re going to be up-tempo brings energy and a strong work ethic. He hit a huge shot and high pressure, and we’ll to beat Great Neck North late rely on our defense to keep last season and helped Kenne- games close.”

Palmieri, who kept 14 on dy sneak into the playoffs. Up from JV, sophomore Christian the roster, said Kennedy will use non-league games against Palazzotto is undersized at 5-foot-4 but has a high basket- Lynbrook, Great Neck South, Josh Eisner ball IQ and Block expects him Mepham, Calhoun and East to hold his own after starring Meadow to iron some kinks out and work on keeping at the lower level. turnovers to a minimum. outside shooting range and Junior forward Steven The Lady Cougars will the ability to create turnCarlson likes to work in the face Garden City, Great Neck overs. open floor and drive to the In the frontcourt, senior rim, making him a candidate North, Carey, Elmont, Jericho and Sewanhaka twice apiece center Lauren Miksits runs to be the team’s leading scorin arguably the most competi- the floor well in addition to er. Sophomore center Marco tive conference from top to serving as a reliable post Travaglione played considbottom in Nassau girls’ baspresence. Junior Rachel erable minutes last winter ketball.

Katz is the likely starting and can provide scoring and Senior Nicolina Torchia power forward and a scrappy rebounding from inside the rebounder who can chip in paint. He’s backed by 7-footer runs the offense from the point and also plays a leadersome points inside.

Koby Chukwuka.

Additional contributors Block expects senior Bran- ship role as a captain. She averaged about eight points will be junior forward Jessie don Desatnick and junior Estrin, who rebounds well Rich Draude to provide a little per game last season as Ken-

F

By TONy BELLISSIMO

22 — December 22, 2016

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Nicolina Torchia

and has a nice mid-range jumper, and freshman forward Dylan Manger, who has strong basketball instincts and the ability to score on put-backs.

Schedule BoyS Matt Guilfoyle December

19 Sewanhaka 23 @ Carey

7:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

January 3 6 11 14 19 21 27 31

Garden City @ Jericho @ Elmont G.N. North @ Sewanhaka Carey @ Garden City Jericho

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February 3 Elmont 8 @ G.N. North

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 @ Sewanhaka 22 Carey

5:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

January 3 6 11 14 19 21 27 31

@ Garden City Jericho Elmont @ G.N. North Sewanhaka @ Carey Garden City @ Jericho

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 3 @ Elmont 8 G.N. North

5:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 22, 2016 — 23

2016- 17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Lawrence Roster turnover for Tornadoes

L

By TONy BELLISSIMO

awrence doesn’t remotely resemble last season’s squad which posted 15 victories and dropped a hardfought Class A opening-round playoff game at Garden City, but head coach Lou Robinson is still thinking positive despite the roster turnover.

“It’s a brand new team,” Robinson said. “We have no returning starters, but it’s an enthusiastic group and they all do well in school. You can’t teach experience, so most of them are getting thrown into the fire and need to learn as we go.”

Many newcomers were part of a JV team that went 15-2, but Robinson said it’ll take some time for the newcomers to get used to the size and speed of the varsity level.

“We’re so young, but I think we can push for a playoff spot,” he said. “We’ve got some talent for sure.”

Senior shooting guard Quon McClendon started a few games for the varsity a year ago and brings a tremendous work ethic. “He’s a spot-on shooter and the hardest worker on the team,” Robinson said. “We need him to hit shots and score with consistency.”

A transfer from the city, junior Roy Vazana could emerge as the starting point guard. “He can handle the ball and defend, and he’s shown a positive attitude every day,” Robinson said.

Senior Warren Shivers is a guard/forward type who can operate at the point. In 201415, he was the leading scorer for JV as a sophomore. “He has a good feel for the game and is athletic and aggressive,” Robinson said.

The top offensive weapons on last year’s JV, sophomore Keaton Goldsby and junior 24 — December 22, 2016

Isaiah Godwin, bolster the backcourt. Goldsby will give up inches to almost every opponent, but he knows how to put the ball in the basket.

Godwin is a quality shooter.

Also up from JV, junior 6-foot-5 center Kevin Nalisa has great leaping ability and a long reach. He’ll rebound and score in the paint, while junior power forward Hector Retana bangs the glass and plays aggressive defense.

Junior Josh Ramos and sophomore Sayvion Daniel could also contribute.

Lady Golden Tornadoes set to show improvement With a decent amount of starting experience back in the fold, along with two returnees who had other commitments and missed last season’s winless grind, the Lady Golden Tornadoes could be vastly improved.

“We’re going to be stronger underneath the basket, so it’s going to open the outside and give us more balance,” longtime head coach George Klein said. “We’re changing the offense around, but we have to cut down on turnovers to make it work. We had far too many turnovers last season.”

With Graciela Cruz and Kiara Stephens returning to the program after spending last winter concentrating on club volleyball, Klein said he’s working with the strongest senior class he’s had in quite a while. Cruz and Stephens, who led Lawrence’s volleyball team to the Class A semifinals, will play center and power forward, respectively, and provide muchneeded height at 6-foot plus.

Cruz’s game is more geared toward the offensive end, while Stephens is a tough defender.

“They give us much more

of a presence inside,” Klein said. “They’re AllCounty volleyball athletes and we’re glad to have them back.”

Senior forward Nayalise Montilla is one of the best shooters the team has featured in decades, Klein said.

An All-Conference selection after averaging 12 points per game, she has range beyond the NBA three-point stripe and can also get to the rim.

Senior Erika Kirchner took hold of the starting point guard job around the midway mark last season and is solid in all facets. Her younger sister, sophomore Brooke, has made big strides at the position according to Klein and sees the court well.

“We’ve always liked to push the tempo,” Klein said.

“We still plan to do so, but we’ll be better in the half

Quon McClendon

Schedule

BoyS Matt GuilfOyle December

19 @ Bethpage 22 Plainedge

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 4 11 14 17 19 21 28

Floral Park Glen Cove @ Lynbrook V.S. North Bethpage @ Plainedge @ Floral Park

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

3:00 p.m.

February Erika Kirchner court.”

Seniors Shania Miller and Korishma Patran know how to turn up the defensive heat, while sophomore Marilyn Mundell will provide some rebounds and chip in a few baskets.

Klein said he won’t miss North Shore’s departure from the conference and believes the Lady Golden Tornadoes can challenge for a playoff spot.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 @ Glen Cove 8 Lynbrook 10 @ V.S. North

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 Bethpage 22 @ Plainedge

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 11 14 17 19 21 28

Floral Park @ Glen Cove Lynbrook @ V.S. North @ Bethpage Plainedge @ Floral Park

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:15 p.m.

February 3 Glen Cove 8 @ Lynbrook 10 V.S. North

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Keith O’Reilly

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Long Beach Marines have their work cut out work. Sophomore Martuise Stephens Jr. isn’t built like an underclassman and brings athleticism and a nice wingspan, Martin said. Junior Tristan Grogh put in a lot of work during the offseason and is a scrappy and strong forward who could start or get starter-like minutes.

Junior Sean McCarthy is someone who can help control the boards, and freshman Aiden White will be asked to provide offense off the bench.

“We’re going to get better as we go along,” Martin said.

“We’re aiming for .500.”

her,” she added.

“She’s a 5-foot-10 forward who moves like a guard.” hat Long Beach Senior point lacks in experience guard Katie and height it hopes Whelan, also to make up with scrappiness set to play lacrosse and by winning the turnover somewhere at the D-I level, battle, something head coach has returned to the basketball Scott Martin also stresses on court after not playing the the football field. past few seasons. “Katie gives “The preseason for basus a big boost,” Ciccone said. ketball is so short compared “She pressures the ball and to football, so we’ve got a lot runs the floor.” to squeeze in,” Martin said.

Junior shooting guard “Before you know it, the Taylor Haines is developing conference games are here. into a vocal leader and brings It’s a young team with a lot Conference foes will a high basketball IQ. She’s a to learn. It’s going to take a strong help defender who’s test Lady Marines little while to figure out our fine tuning her outside shot, personnel and rotation.”

After stringing together a Four of the five Marines handful of successful seasons, Ciccone said. Senior Ava who started the non-league the Lady Marines had a rough Tassiello has bettered her skill set and will contribute to opener against Oceanside go in 2015-16 and finished the backcourt. were on a varsity court for the with just two victories, both The first player off the first time. That includes soph- against overmatched Westomore point guard Lashaun bury.

Hankins, who popped for 15 “We faced a lot of good points and showed some of teams and it looks like the the same confidence he disconference is going to be played last winter at the JV strong again,” head coach level. “He’s our most polished Kristin Ciccone said. “We’re and skilled player,” Martin more athletic this season said. “He doesn’t panic under and the girls returning have pressure and has picked a better understanding of things up quickly.” the game and our system, so Senior shooting guard we’re looking to at least finGian Valles is a varsity ish .500.” returnee who flashed signs Long Beach competes in last season with a few big a conference featuring Class offensive games. “We’ll look AA and A schools, and most to him to lead the younger are familiar. Conference AA/ Gian Valles guys and help them get used A3 is comprised of Calhoun, to varsity,” Martin said. “He Great Neck South, Herricks, can score some and is a good MacArthur, Manhasset and bench in most games last winon-ball defender.”

Mepham. ter, senior Samantha Chase is Also in the backcourt mix Senior captain Siobhan a 5-10 center with improved is junior Matteo Carmada, Rafferty has lofty goals, not confidence and post moves. who was slowed by an injury only for herself but the Lady Sophomores Adrianna Sadin early December. SophoMarines, after earning Allmore Sean Steele can turn up Class honors last season. “She joeni and Fiona Rafferty are aggressive power forwards. the defensive pressure, and wants to make All-County Sadjoeni has good shooting senior Joe O’Donohue can and get back to the playoffs,” range, while Rafferty is fast knock down shots from the Ciccone said of Rafferty, a and athletic. perimeter.

Division I lacrosse recruit “We’ve spent a lot of time Senior Jake Thurston is headed to Stony Brook Uniworking on conditioning,” a three-sport athlete who’ll versity. “She’s the backbone Ciccone said. “We’re going to provide muscle in the frontof our defense and teams are try to confuse opponents with court do a bunch of dirty going to struggle to defend

By TONy BELLISSIMO

W

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Siobhan Rafferty

various pressure and keep mistakes to a minimum.”

Schedule BoyS December 20 G.N. South 23 @ MacArthur

4:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 4 7 10 13 18 20 27

Herricks @ Manhasset @ Mepham Calhoun @ G.N. South MacArthur @ Herricks

5:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February 1 Manhasset 4 Mepham 7 @ Calhoun

4:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 @ G.N. South 23 MacArthur

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 4 7 10 13 18 20 28

@ Herricks Manhasset Mepham @ Calhoun G.N. South @ MacArthur Herricks

6:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

February 1 @ Manhasset 4 @ Mepham 7 Calhoun

6:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

December 22, 2016 — 25

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Lynbrook Owls appear on upswing

By TONy BELLISSIMO

I

mproved athleticism, depth and chemistry are three things head coach Jamie Adams is counting on to make Lynbrook more successful in arguably the most talented conference in Nassau boys’ basketball.

The Owls, 2-17 overall last season, are employing an up-tempo style with more pressure on the ball and the potential for more points off turnovers. They return two starters and will rely on several other varsity returnees and a handful of JV promotes.

“Last season was frustrating but we finished on a positive note with a conference win over Bethpage and some very close losses including 88-87 to Lawrence,” Adams said. “The conference is so tough, but I feel we’re better prepared. There are games out there we should win.”

Valley Stream North and Floral Park are considered teams to beat in Conference A-III, which also includes Bethpage, Glen Cove, Lawrence and Plainedge. The Owls will get ready for the grind with non-league games against Mineola, Division, Wantagh, Long Beach and Oceanside.

“We’re looking to have success in the non-league and build some confidence,” Adams said. “There’s been a great amount of enthusiasm in practice.”

Sophomore point guard Rylan Blondo started most games last season and gained valuable experience. “He has a high ceiling,” Adams said. “He loves to push and pressure the ball. He’s an exceptional passer and also a prototypical scoring point guard.”

The only game of 19 Rob 26 — December 22, 2016

Sitonio didn’t start as a junior was senior day. The 6-foot-2 power forward is now a senior captain along with guards Nick Tuzzio and Matt Higginson and will be counted on to rebound and ignite the fast break.

Tuzzio is a hard-nosed guard who thrives on defense and can slash to the basket, while Higginson is an outside shooting threat. Junior Jonathan Baltes, the starting JV point guard last winter, hit six treys in the Owls’ first scrimmage in November and bolsters the backcourt.

Senior Antonio Vinceslao and junior Aldin Cekic are sizeable (6-5) post players, and sophomore forwards John Donaldson and Brandon Pekale are also set to contribute.

Lots to like about Lady Owls After winning a dozen games and qualifying for the playoffs in 2014-15, the Lady Owls continued their climb up the Class A ladder last season with a 16-5 mark and a trip to the quarterfinals where they gave top-seeded Elmont a run for its money.

With a pair of All-County returnees, senior center Kerrin Montgomery and junior guard/forward Sophia LoCicero, it would be no surprise if more good things come Lynbrook’s way. On paper, the Lady Owls appear the team to beat in a conference that includes defending county champion Floral Park, Bethpage, Glen Cove, Lawrence, Plainedge and Valley Stream North.

“We’re excited,” head coach Steve LoCierco said.

“We’ve got a system in place that’s worked well and all five starters have a good amount of varsity experience.

“Our defense creates a lot of our offense,” he added. “We play an intense 1-3-1 and we’ll

show a bunch of different pressures and traps.”

Montgomery averaged 19.6 points and 15.0 rebounds per game last season and is on the verge of reaching the 1,000 milestone in both categories for her career. “Kerrin is the complete package and her work ethic is equal to nobody,” the coach said.

“One of her best qualities is unselfishness. She just wants what’s best for the team.”

Driving to the basket and getting to the foul line are two of many things Sophia LoCicero does well. Last season, she averaged 18.6 points per game, chipped in about five rebounds and led the Lady Owls in steals.

Senior forward Emily

Rylan Blondo

defensively, while senior Erin Bond, junior Brianna Piro and sophomore Kerrin Bartels provide solid reinforcements.

Schedule BOyS December

Matt Guilfoyle 22 @ V.S. North

7:15 p.m.

January 3 6 11 14 17 21 27 31

Bethpage Plainedge @ Floral Park Lawrence @ Glen Cove V.S. North @ Bethpage @ Plainedge

7:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

February Sophia LoCicero Kluth is another returning starter and the orchestrator of the team’s defense. “She’s like having a coach on the floor,” LoCicero said.

At the point, junior Erin Pender will be counted on to contribute a lot at both ends of the floor. “She’s not easily rattled and gives us another three-point threat with Sophia,” LoCicero said.

Senior forward Rachel Foley will crash the boards and make her presence felt

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 Floral Park 8 @ Lawrence 10 Glen Cove

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 22 V.S. North

6:30 p.m.

January 3 6 11 14 17 21 28 31

@ Bethpage @ Plainedge Floral Park @ Lawrence Glen Cove @ V.S. North Bethpage Plainedge

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 3 @ Floral Park 8 Lawrence 10 @ Glen Cove

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

879333

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 22, 2016 — 27

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

2016-17

BOYS HEAD

COACHES Darius Burton - Baldwin

Jay KreutzBerger - Calhoun

Marty KeLLy - Carey

Joe Lores - East Rockaway

george HoLuB - Elmont

Larry steiMer - Freeport

BiLL DuBin - Hewlett

rory BLoCK - Kennedy

Lou roBinson - Lawrence

sCott Martin - Long Beach

JaMie aDaMs - Lynbrook

eriC ruBin - MacArthur

DarroLL LoPez - Malverne

Pat FaLLon - Mepham

aL Lyson - Oceanside

raLPH rossetti - Seaford

Jason aLLen - Sewanhaka

Jerry D’angeLo - South Side

HayWarD aLFreD - V.S. Central

Dan aCHatz - V.S. North

Matt JoHnsen - V.S. South

KeitH Hunter - Wantagh

eD Cosgrove - West Hempstead

28 — December 22, 2016

Joe HasBrouCK - Clarke

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

BoBBy KoPP - East Meadow

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

2016-17

GIRLS HEAD

COACHES Tom CaTapano - Baldwin

pETE maGnUSon - Calhoun

LIZ CRaWFoRD - Carey

KaRIn LEaRY - East Rockaway

Tom maGno - Elmont

mEREDITh JonES - Freeport

RICh DESanTo - Hewlett

maLLoRY paLmIERI - Kennedy

GEoRGE KLEIn - Lawrence

KRISTIn CICConE - Long Beach

STEvE LoCICERo - Lynbrook

DavE RaDTKE - MacArthur

LoREnZo JEnKInS - Malverne

JIm mULvEY - Mepham

JoE SUppLE - Oceanside

BoB vaChRIS - Seaford

aLEx SoUpIoS - Sewanhaka

Dan FERRICK - South Side

maLYSSa ThoRnGREn - VS Central

KaTIE DILapI - V.S. North

mIKE o’BRIEn - V.S. South

STan BUJaCICh - Wantagh

ChRIS van KovICS - West Hempstead

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

ShaUn FEan - Clarke

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

pETE oLEnIK - East Meadow

December 22, 2016 — 29

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

MacArthur Generals look for playoff payoff

A

By ANDREW COEN

fter a growing pains season with a sophomore-centric team, MacArthur is looking to progress toward a Nassau Class A boys’ basketball playoff berth this winter.

MacArthur is projected to have five junior starters led by point guard Benny Orlando, the leading scorer on last year’s 5-14 squad. As a sophomore Orlando averaged nearly 10 points per game and scored a season-high 20 in 55-51 win against Carle Place.

“He does a great job running the point,” said head coach Eric Rubin of his backcourt leader. “He is a solid shooter.”

Junior small forward Kyle Acquavella also returns after starting during his sophomore campaign. He averaged six points a game last season and tallied 17 in a close defeat to Calhoun.

“He’s getting more and more athletic,” said Rubin of Acquavella. “He is one year older and bigger and stronger.”

MacArthur has a strong inside presence with center Nick Purcell and power forward Mike Manfredo. The big men are scoring threats in the paint and can also haul down some important rebounds.

“They complement each other well,” Rubin said.

“They both started a lot of games last year and got plenty of minutes.”

Junior shooting guard Andrew Sweeney rebounded from an early-season injury last year to have some strong games down the stretch.

Rubin praised Sweeney’s leadership skills and is hoping he can command a strong presence on both ends of the floor.

Adding to MacArthur’s 30 — December 22, 2016

junior-heavy roster are guards Kyle Cunningham and Jack Leogrande. Rubin expects the duo to contribute some key minutes off the bench and give the Generals extra depth.

MacArthur moved from Class AA to AA due to a drop in enrollment. The Generals will compete during the regular season in a league that features A schools Mepham. Great Neck South and Manhasset as well as AA teams. Rubin said if the team connects early on in conference play the program’s first playoff berth in two years could be within reach.

“The goal is definitely to make the playoffs,” he said.

“It is very attainable if we work hard.”

Offense to spark Lady Generals

MacArthur brings back much of the firepower from an explosive offense that scored 50 or more points in 12 games a year ago.

Third-year head coach Dave Radtke implemented an up-tempo offense when he took over the program and veteran returning players have started to find their rhythm with the system.

Radtke likes to utilize nearly his entire roster so fresh legs are on the court that can play in transition.

“We have some great players coming back,” said Radtke, whose team went 14-6 last year and fell to Syosset in the first round of the playoffs.

“I think we can be pretty solid.”

Senior guard Angeline Klein returns following a junior campaign in which she averaged nearly 20 points a game and was a consistent three-point threat. Klein battled adversity last season following the death of her mother to breast cancer and Radtke said she is determined

for a big final campaign of high school hoops.

“She is in midseason form,” Radtke said. “Her outside shooting is tremendous.”

Klein is a co-captain with senior point guard Shannon Myles, who is MacArthur’s top defensive player. Radtke is looking at Myles to generate fast break opportunities on presses after made baskets.

Myles also is a key part of the Generals’ fast-paced offense and averaged six points a game as a junior.

“She is a tough player,” said Radtke of Myles.

Complementing Klein and Myles is a strong junior class

Angeline Klein freshman. Zielinski like the other players on the roster is capable of pushing the ball up the floor.

“Everyone on the team can handle the ball,” Radtke said. “It’s going to be a team effort.”

Schedule

Matt GuilFoyle

BOyS December

20 @ Calhoun 23 Long Beach

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 4 10 13 18 20 28 30

@ G.N. South Herricks @ Manhasset Calhoun @ Long Beach G.N. South Mepham

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

February Benny Orlando led by Mackenzie Tierney, Angela Cozza, Amanda Peluso and Gabby Volpe. The four juniors have developed chemistry playing on the same AAU team and often being on the floor at same time last season as part of Radtke’s system that involves subbing players every minute.

Sophomore Annie Zielinski is also expected to be a key component of MacArthur’s high-powered offense after earning minutes as a

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 @ Herricks 7 Manhasset 10 @ Mepham

7:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 Calhoun 23 @ Long Beach

6:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

January 4 10 13 16 20 28 30

G.N. South @ Herricks Manhasset @ Mepham Long Beach @ G.N. South @ Calhoun

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 4 Herricks 7 @ Manhasset 10 Mepham

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Peter Frutkoff

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 22, 2016 — 31

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Malverne Mules are a work in progress

a

By JOE GALOTTI

fter a memorable 201415 campaign, last season was a rather tough one for Malverne boys’ basketball. The team was faced with the unenviable task of replacing five graduating starters, and during the transition year only registered a pair of victories.

This season, the Mules are still a developing young squad, but are led by three experienced upperclassmen, who could allow the club to be much more competitive this winter. “We’re a young team this year, but the strength of our team will be through Michael James, Kian Kimanyen and Joshua Rivers,” assistant coach Walter Aksionoff said.

James is a junior, who at 5-foot-11 can play point guard, shooting guard and small forward. According to Aksionoff, he will be a key figure in the team’s offense.

“He’s going to be able to get to the basket and do good things for us,” he said. “We’re looking for him to take jump shots and to drive.”

Kimanyen, a senior forward, is another versatile offensive piece for the squad. “He’s very tough on the inside,” Aksionoff said.

“We’re going to probably play him at the three position, because he can shoot, rebound and make an impact in a lot of areas of the game.”

Down low, the Mules will look for Rivers, a 6-foot-2 senior, to be a difference maker. “We’ll need him to get rebounds and finish for us inside in the paint,” Aksionoff said.

Chidozie Alozie is another 6-2 senior forward back in the lineup and can give the Mules an advantage on the boards.

Aksionoff also says Alozie 32 — December 22, 2016

stands out for his intelligence on and off the court.

Juniors Makhia Effs and Lavell Mason, and sophomores Gray Dorleans and Elliot Edwards should also log key minutes for the Mules, who compete in Conference ABC. Malverne is expecting opposing teams to frequently use a zone defense. Aksionoff is hoping his team can combat this by causing havoc on the inside.

“We have to drive”, he said. “We’re going to try and reverse the ball and attack the rim.”

Experienced trio to lead Lady Mules Much like their boys counterpart, the Malverne girls will be leaning heavily on three experienced players to help them improve upon a difficult 2015-16 season. The Lady Mules are led by Keyeria Dawson, Alexis Lake and Diana Jean, a trio that the club’s head coach Lorenzo Jenkins refers to as the “three amigos”.

“We’re a little more seasoned this year,” Jenkins said. “We’re still a small team, but we have three veteran players who have been on varsity for a while.

Dawson, Lake and Jean seem to be ready to take a step forward for us this season.”

Dawson is Malverne’s lone senior, and will be asked to once again help lead the team off the court and on the court as well in the point guard slot.

“I think she will be improved at running the point this year,” Jenkins said.

“Last year she was forced into the position, and struggled a bit with it. This year she has a little more poise and seems to be coming into her own as a senior.”

Lake, a junior, has showcased plenty of offensive potential over her first few

seasons, and should continue to be a strong presence down low for the Mules. “When Lake shows up, she can definitely be a powerhouse inside the paint,” Jenkins said.

Jean, a junior, will get minutes at the guard and forward positions for Malverne, and according to her coach is notable for the consistent effort she puts forth on the court.

“She is just relentless and goes hard after everything,” Jenkins said. “She’s one of our primary defenders.”

Aiding the “three amigos” this season will be a pair of talented sopho-

Mike James

Matt Guilfoyle Schedule

BoyS December 20 @ Locust Valley 23 Carle Place

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 4 7 10 13 16 18 20 28

@ East Rockaway @ C.S. Harbor Seaford Oyster Bay @ Wheatley Locust Valley @ Carle Place East Rockaway

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

February Keyenia Dawson mores, Nia Moore and Quateka Dawson. Seventh grader Princia Ulysse also will be part of the varsity team, and is a player to watch, according to Jenkins.

“She’s a shooting machine,” he said. “She could be a surprise player in the conference.”

The Lady Mules also now have 10 players on their JV roster, so the program’s future is looking bright.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1 3 7 10

C.S. Harbor @ Seaford @ Oyster Bay Wheatley

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 Locust Valley 23 @ Carle Place

6:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

January 4 7 10 13 16 17 20 27

East Rockaway C.S. Harbor @ Seaford @ Oyster Bay Wheatley @ Locust Valley Carle Place @ East Rockaway

6:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

February 1 4 7 10

@ C.S. Harbor Seaford Oyster Bay @ Wheatley

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud / John Heckman

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 22, 2016 — 33

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

MephaM Pirates seek playoff return

By TONy BELLISSIMO

a

fter reaching the Nassau Class AA boys’ basketball playoffs for the first time in a decade last season and finishing 11-9 overall, Mepham is looking to continue in a positive direction and will lean on five returnees to set the tone.

“I’m thinking it’s going to be a very interesting season with a lot of close games,” head coach Pat Fallon said.

“They way the conference looks on paper, it’s going to be a competitive year for everyone. It’s our hope to get back to the playoffs.”

The Pirates are part of Conference A/AA-III along with Calhoun, Great Neck South, Herricks, Long Beach, MacArthur and Manhasset. “Defense is one of our strengths and we’ll look to get some easy baskets in transition,” Fallon said. “We have to take care of the ball and limit turnovers.”

Senior Jeremy Lissade, a three-sport athlete entering his third varsity season on the hardwood, runs the offense from the point. He’s quick with the ball, distributes well and makes smart decisions, the coach said.

On the wing, junior Nah’jel Sands enjoyed some breakout games in the scoring column last winter on the way to earning All-Conference honors. “He’s athletic and likes to slash to the basket,” Fallon said. “He’ll also help us on the boards.”

Senior guard Jake Santiago is a reliable perimetershooting threat whose ability to drain threes will keep defenses honest. “He’s a consistent hard worker and gives us leadership,” Fallon said.

A reserve last season, senior forward Ricky Derosena brings an improved 34 — December 22, 2016

outside game as he assumes a bigger role. He’s 6-foot-1 and can defend, rebound and pass.

Mepham’s main presence in the paint is 6-5 senior center Jordan Jones, who started most games last season and can present a mismatch around the basket.

After helping lead the football team to the playoffs as the starting quarterback, junior Mike Proios is back in the basketball program and could become a significant contributor, Fallon said.

Seniors Steven Liriano and Jonathan Krakoff will provide sparks in the backcourt and frontcourt, respectively, as well as leadership.

Nine returnees lead Lady Pirates With five conference championships in six seasons and multiple trips to the Nassau Class AA semifinals, the Lady Pirates have been among the more successful girls’ basketball programs in the county.

Head coach Jim Mulvey, entering his 13th season at the helm, guided the team to 16 victories in 2015-16, which ended with a quarterfinal playoff loss to Farmingdale.

Now, with a dip in enrollment, Mepham is a Class A school.

“There’s more parity and a lot of quality teams in Class A,” Mulvey explained. “It’s going to be different come February. We’re looking to compete for another conference title and hopefully make a deep playoff run.”

The Lady Pirates will see many of the same opponents during the regular season in a conference mixed of AA and A teams. They’ll face Calhoun, Great Neck South, Herricks, Long Beach, MacArthur and Manhasset twice apiece.

With nine returning play-

ers, including four award winners, Mepham figures to be right in the mix for the top spot again. Junior point guard MaryAnn Bagonis, an All-County selection, is a polished offensive threat who averaged 13 points per game.

“She’s a natural scorer and also unselfish,” Mulvey said.

“One of the biggest things she’s working on is improving her assist-to-turnover ratio.”

Senior center Maeve Testa, who earned All-Class honors, has potential to post double digits in points and rebounds every game, Mulvey said.

Testa averaged about seven rebounds last season. “She gets up and down the floor very well and brings experience and leadership,” he noted.

Junior forward Julia Anderson, a 5-foot-9 lefty with good shooting range and the ability to score inside, comes

MaryAnn Bagonis

for the JV squad last winter.

Seniors Danielle Preattle, Taylor Drew and Elena Bonilla will contribute in the frontcourt.

Schedule

BoyS December 20 @ Herricks 23 Manhasset

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 7 10 13 18 21 30

@ Calhoun Long Beach G.N. South Herricks @ Manhasset @ MacArthur

1:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

February Jeremy Lissade

off an All-Conference campaign along with junior forward Kara Castaldo, a tenacious defender who always gets the toughest shutdown assignment.

Four other juniors will vie for starting time and considerable minutes off the bench: Julia Linekin, Caitlyn Gilroy, Taylor McCoy and Kelsey Vantewater. The latter had multiple 25-point games

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1 4 7 10

Calhoun @ Long Beach @ G.N. South MacArthur

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 20 Herricks 23 @ Manhasset

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 7 10 13 16 18 20

Calhoun @ Long Beach @ G.N. South MacArthur @ Herricks Manhasset

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 1 4 7 10

@ Calhoun Long Beach G.N. South @ MacArthur

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

OceansIde Sailors aim to flip close results

By TONy BELLISSIMO

I

t was far too often a case of “close but no cigar” last winter for the Sailors, who managed just one win against Conference AA-I rivals to go with eight singledigit defeats.

“We showed we could play with anybody, but we couldn’t finish off games,” head coach Al Lyson said. “We need to build up our confidence early and carry it into league play.

We know we can’t look past anybody. It’s such a tough league and everyone seems to reload.”

Oceanside will once again face Uniondale, Hempstead, Farmingdale, Freeport, Massapequa and Syosset twice apiece in A-I action.

“We’ve got an athletic and devoted group,” Lyson said.

“We’ll probably go eight or nine deep and really try to push the tempo. Our offense is going to be different. We’re going to try to make things happen in transition and with the dribble-drive.”

Charlie Franzo and Maurice Eaufe-Lewis appear to be the only seniors among Lyson’s starting five. Both are versatile enough to contribute in the backcourt and frontcourt. “Charlie is everything you’d want in a captain,” Lyson said. “He’s our heart and soul. He’ll do whatever it takes for the team to be successful. We’ll look to him to get us double digits in points every game.”

Eaufe-Lewis has tremendous athletic ability and is showing signs of becoming more consistent. “I’m expecting big things,” Lyson said.

“Maurice led us in rebounding in a bunch of games last season. He can slash and finish, and I think the offense we’re running now plays to his strengths.”

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Sophomore Jake Lazzaro will run the show from the point. “He’s a strong kid with good size and a good handle,” Lyson said.

Lazzaro and freshman center Jake Tarvoff got a taste of the varsity life down the stretch last season. Tarvoff is 6-foot-7 and has nice touch around the basket and plenty of AAU experience. Lyson said he’ll be a “fantastic lowpost threat” immediately.

Junior Anthorne Garrett, the anticipated starting power forward, brings size and also the ability to knock down shots from the outside.

Lady Sailors seek more playoffs After several seasons of closing the gap on the competition, the Lady Sailors kicked down the playoff door in 201415 and reached the Nassau Class AA quarterfinals. They backed it up with another postseason appearance last winter, and new head coach Joe Supple will look to pick up where predecessor Jason Manning left off.

“We want to build off the last two seasons,” said Supple, who assisted Manning during the breakthrough campaign and previously coached the Lawrence boys’ team. “Inexperience may get us early, but the girls have a great work ethic and a lot of potential,” he added.

“They’ve built up their fitness level and we’re leaning towards the seniors to set the tone.”

Senior shooting guard Samantha Stein does a lot on and off the court in the leadership department. She’s a three-year varsity performer and one of the team’s best outside shooters, Supple noted. “A lot of the offensive burden will be on Sami,” he said. “She can handle it.”

Senior Sabrina Seeger provides Oceanside with a solid

presence in the post. After averaging about seven points and seven rebounds per game last season, Supple is seeking double digits in both categories and more trips to the foul line for his returning starting center.

At the point, freshman Jamie Behar has all the tools and comes off an All-Conference season that saw her average 13.4 points and 5.2 assists per game. “Jamie has a complete game,” Supple said.

“She fills every column in the box score and gets everyone involved.”

Another freshman, Gina Contorno, moved to the district from Queens and appears ready to make an immediate impact and crack the starting five.

She’s aggressive to the rim and is expected to help Seeger and Behar in

Charlie Franzo

Schedule Matt Guilfoyle BoyS

December

22 @ Syosset

6:30 p.m.

January 4 6 10 12 16 20 27

Uniondale Freeport @ Farmingdale Massapequa @ Hempstead Syosset @ Uniondale

7:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

February Samantha Stein the rebound category.

Senior guard Kathleen Lucey is a relentless defender who’ll draw the top backcourt assignment. Sophomore Katie Morgan shoots well from the outside, while juniors Kasey Slavin, Meg DiDomenica and Nicole Kraemer are up from the JV and can make things happen at both ends of the floor.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1 4 7 10

@ Freeport Farmingdale @ Massapequa Hempstead

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 22 Syosset

7:00 p.m.

January 3 7 10 12 16 20 28 31

@ Uniondale @ Freeport Farmingdale @ Massapequa Hempstead @ Syosset Uniondale Freeport

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February 3 @ Farmingdale 7 Massapequa 10 @ Hempstead

5:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

December 22, 2016 — 35

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Seaford Late start a challenge for Vikings

S

By ANDREW COEN

eaford boys’ basketball got a later start than most teams prepping for the new season.

A bulk of the Vikings’ roster was part of the football squad’s Nassau County Conference IV title run. With Seaford’s football season not ending until a 20-10 setback to Shoreham-Wading River in the Long Island Class IV championship game on Nov. 27, the Vikings only had two varsity players suiting up for the first two weeks of practice.

Longtime head coach Ralph Rossetti said while he is pleased for his players’ football success, he wishes the season ended after the Nassau County championship so that there could be more preseason preparation time on the basketball court.

“It’s going to take a process to get the guys ready because of the delay,” said Rossetti, who has won 344 games in 34 years of coaching including a Nassau County title in 1998. “The system should be changed.”

Among the football players who shined during Seaford’s 14-7 playoff basketball season was A.J. Cain, who averaged 14.3 points per game and earned All-County honors.

Cain’s senior classmate Danny Roell received All-Conference accolades last winter and is looking to continue the momentum from a 2016 football season at running back where he gained over 2,000 yards. Rossetti is also hoping for a big winter from senior shooting guard Andrew Pich, who averaged 9.2 points a game as a junior and was also part of the football team’s successful fall.

While football was wrapping up, varsity players John 36 — December 22, 2016

Diachok and Jim Ryan practiced with the JV squad to stay fresh until the full team came together. Rossetti is hoping to once again implement an up-tempo offensive system combined with aggressive play on the defensive end of the floor.

“We’re going to press and push the ball,” Rossetti said.

Seaford will compete in Conference ABC and look to punch a playoff spot by placing in the top two or with at least a .500 record. Rossetti expects stiff competition in the league from Locust Valley and Cold Spring Harbor.

Experience a plus for Lady Vikings

The Lady Vikings return nine players and all five starters from last year’s 12-8 team that fell in the first round of the playoffs and are hoping the experience leads to a deeper run this winter.

Seaford finished 10-2 in conference play and was edged out for the league title after a 36-35 heartbreaker to Island Trees in the regularseason finale. The Lady Vikings then dropped a first round matchup as the 12-seed to Garden City in the opening round of the Class A playoffs.

“The team has the talent, size, and experience to make a run this year,” head coach Bob Vachris said. “However, every team on the schedule was a playoff team a year ago.”

Junior Jaclyn Grzelasczyk returns at center after an All County season where she averaged 9.5 points per game. She will be joined in the frontcourt by junior forwards Jenna Silver and Maddie O’Hagan, who like Grzelasczyk are third-year varsity players. Senior Stephanie Routledge, 6-foot sophomore Madison Meehan and 5-foot-11 freshman Jamie

McSorley will back up the junior trio in the paint area.

Senior captain Ally Palermo, who will play lacrosse at Northwestern next year, leads a versatile backcourt in her final season of high school basketball. Senior Kaitlyn Meyer along with juniors Julia Siler, Melanie Cascio and Lilly Kolodinsky give the Vikings plenty of capable shooters who can also drive to basket. Meyer had 14 points in a 56-46 non-conference loss to Class AA opponent East Meadow on Dec. 2.

“This is a seasoned squad that has been very good defensively and is prepared for an offensive breakout,” Vachris said.

The Lady Vikings had a stout defense last season hold-

Jaclyn Grzelasczyk

Schedule BoyS December 20 Oyster Bay 22 @ Wheatley

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 7 10 13 16 18 21 27

Locust Valley @ Carle Place @ Malverne C.S. Harbor @ East Rockaway @ Oyster Bay Wheatley @ Locust Valley

February

John Diachok

1 3 7 10

ing opponents to 40 points or less in 14 games. With a deep team Vachris hopes for similar defensive results this winter against a challenging schedule.

Seaford competes in Conference ABC, which also features Carle Place, Cold Spring Harbor, East Rockaway, Locust Valley, Malverne, Oyster Bay and Wheatley. The Lady Vikings will be guaranteed a playoff spot with a 5.00 or better record.

GIRLS December

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

Carle Place Malverne @ C.S. Harbor East Rockaway

20 @ Oyster Bay 22 Wheatley

7:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 4 6 11 13 16 18 20 28

@ Locust Valley Carle Place Malverne @ C.S. Harbor East Rockaway Oyster Bay @ Wheatley Locust Valley

7:15 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

February 1 4 7

@ Carle Place @ Malverne C.S. Harbor East Rockaway

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Sewanhaka Indians looking to reload

By ANDREW MccLURE

T

he 2015-16 season was a good one for Sewanhaka.

The Indians were victorious in eight of their first nine games, and advanced to the quarterfinal round of the Nassau Class A playoffs where they lost to an Elmont team that went on to win the state championship.

A tough non-league schedule comprising Hewlett, Amityville, Freeport, and Valley Stream South will prepare the Indians for the rigors of Conference A1.

Head coach Jay Allen has high hopes for his team, but knows it will take time for his group to jell. “We lost a lot from last season, so we’re going to have to figure out what our identity is,” Allen said. “We’re going to going to face a lot of different styles.

We still want to get out and run, but we’re going to have to be able to adjust when teams slow things down.”

Sewanhaka will be looking for a lot from junior Rahim Akinwunmi on both sides of the floor. Akinwunmi, a threeyear varsity player, is a big, physical guard who shoots the three and rebounds well, and is solid on defense.

Junior guard Kamaal Chin is another player with great expectations. Chin is the prototypical point guard; a cerebral player who does a nice job running the team’s half court offense. Like Akinwunmi, Chin is a terrific defender.

Joining Chin in the backcourt is junior Jayden Boyd.

When the Indians want to get out on the break, the versatile Boyd is the guy to push the ball up the floor. Senior Tyler Rodriguez is a hard-nosed, scrappy guard who leads by example.

Junior Giovanni Brice is a slasher who can hit the midTO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

range jumper or drive to the basket. Allen sees potential in Ricardo Jean. The 6-foot-4 forward defends well and has tremendous work ethic.

Senior Marcus Johnson is tough on the boards and gets after it.

Junior Jazier Whitely has the tools to be a big contributor. Senior Jonathan Boyd is a steady player who could see a lot of time.

Lady Indians will run the floor After three consecutive seasons of seeing their year come to an end in the opening round of the playoffs, the Lady Indians hope to break the spell in 2016-17.

Despite losing 1,000-point scorer Casey Hayes to graduation, Sewanhaka returns its top scorer and a slew of quick, athletic players from a team that finished 9-5 in league play. Once again, county-finalist Elmont will be the team to beat in Nassau Conference A1.

Head coach Alex Soupios is impressed with the way his team is responding to a new philosophy. “We don’t have Casey to dump the ball inside to, so we’re adjusting things to match our strengths,” Soupios said. “This group is mature beyond its years.

They’re buying into the using their speed and athleticism.”

Senior guard Destiny Hurt (14.6 ppg), a player Soupios calls a pillar of consistency, has a terrific first step to beat opponents off the dribble, and is capable of pulling up and scoring from the perimeter.

Hurt earned All-County honors as a junior.

Sophomore Carly Bolivar is everything you want from a guard. Bolivar hits the seams and penetrates to the basket real well. Fellow sophomore Flo Hunte is the backbone of the team. Hunte is a fleetfooted, versatile guard who

Rahim Akinwunmi has improved her perimeter game.

Junior Kate Weinschreider is a forward with excellent guard skills. Her ability fits well into a scheme that will often call for five guards to be on the court. Junior Ashley

ent and future. Juniors Samantha Alonzo and Akyra Ingram, and sophomores Jessica Williams and Paola Aquino will contribute off the bench.

Schedule BoyS

December Matt GuilFoyle 19 @ Kennedy

7:00 p.m.

January 3 7 11 13 17 19 27 31

Carey @ Garden City Jericho @ Elmont @ G.N. North Kennedy @ Carey Garden City

4:30 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

February Destiny Hurt Dann is a big threat from the perimeter.

Junior guard Cherish Francis has all the skills.

She’s the team’s best ball handler, and has a knack for hitting big shots in big moments.

Sophomore Ashley Cattle has the potential to be a difference-maker. Cattle is a terrific defender and rebounder.

A pair of freshmen, Mia Weinschreider and Nia Lariosa are a big part of the pres-

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 @ Jericho 8 Elmont 10 @ G.N. North

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 Kennedy

5:00 p.m.

January 3 7 10 13 17 19 27 31

@ Carey @ Garden City Jericho Elmont G.N. North @ Kennedy Carey Garden City

4:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

February 3 Jericho 8 @ Elmont 10 G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

Photos by Peter Frutkoff

December 22, 2016 — 37

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

South Side Cyclones possess size and depth

A

By TONy BELLISSIMO

bounce or two away from beating eventual state champion Elmont in last season’s Nassau Class A title game, which took two overtimes to decide, South Side enters the 2016-17 campaign looking for a fourth consecutive conference crown and another deep playoff run.

“We don’t possess the size we’re used to, but we’ll be quick and athletic,” head coach Jerry D’Angelo said.

“We have to form a new identity and come together.”

The Cyclones, who went 18-5 overall last season including playoff victories over Locust Valley, Glen Cove and Hewlett, lost at least 80 percent or more of their scoring, rebounding and assists.

Hewlett and Roosevelt are expected to pose the stiffest challenges to South Side’s conference throne. Roslyn, Wantagh, Division and New Hyde Park also return to A-II. At 6-foot-4, senior forward Dami Awosika is among the Cyclones’ tallest players and one of their offensive focal points. He had South Side’s biggest highlight last season when his wild buzzer-beating heave from just inside midcourt sent the county finals into OT. D’Angelo expects him to average at least a dozen points and eight rebounds per game. “Dami can play three or four different positions and we’ll look for matchup advantages with him,” D’Angelo said. “He’s fast off the dribble and explosive.”

Senior guard Brandon Grayson, who can run the point, comes off an All-County campaign that was cut short after the opening round of the playoffs due to a broken hand. He averaged 14.5 points per game. “He loves to 38 — December 22, 2016

slash to the basket, and he’s a quality defender on the ball,” D’Angelo noted.

Senior guard Ryan Prendergast is in line for a big uptick in minutes. He has good shooting range and can run the offense from the point. Senior Pat Basile is a steady presence in the backcourt, which added junior James Kesicier as a dangerous shooting threat.

Kesicier and junior forward Matt Trencheny both starred at the JV level last winter. Seniors James Testa and Ryan McCarthy are two keys to successful rebounding and defense in the frontcourt.

Lady Cyclones seek playoff run Second-year head coach Dan Ferrick, in his 17th season with the program, guided the Lady Cyclones to 16 victories in 2015-16, but said their potential wasn’t realized.

“Our goal just isn’t to make the playoffs,” he said.

South Side, which suffered a first-round upset to Manhasset in the Nassau Class A Tournament, will look to develop better chemistry and some secondary scorers behind All-County senior point guard Jourdin Thomas.

“Teams did their best to try to lock Jourdin off and frustrate her,” Ferrick said.

“But she’s going to get her points and she’s extremely unselfish when she does get doubled.

“We’re literally almost a five-guard team,” he added.

“We don’t have the size we had in the past.”

Thomas, who earned Conference A-II Player of the Year honors while averaging 17 points per game, is getting some Division I looks, according to Ferrick. “She’s a phenomenal student and just a great kid,” he said. “She’s improved all aspects of her

game, especially her range and accuracy.”

Junior guard Jenna Lopez steps into a bigger role and Ferrick expects her to be one of the better guards in a conference that includes Division, Hewlett, New Hyde Park, Roosevelt, Roslyn and Wantagh. Lopez comes off an All-Conference campaign.

“She’s gotten taller each season and shoots well from the outside,” he said. “She has a well-rounded game.”

Kendall Kelly, another junior, was derailed by a broken foot last season but is enjoying a strong camp.

She’s a pure shooter who’s not afraid to let it fly, a characteristic Ferrick likes.

Junior forward Gianna Mauro is considered the Jourdin Thomas X-factor in Ferrick’s mind.

She didn’t get on the floor nagh will also contribute in much last season due to pneumonia, but when healthy the backcourt. proved a matchup nightmare.

Schedule BoyS

December Matt GuilfOyle

19 @ Hewlett 22 New Hyde Park

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 10 13 17 19 21 27

@ Roosevelt Roslyn @ Division Wantagh Hewlett @ New Hyde Park Roosevelt

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

3:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 3 @ Roslyn 8 Division 10 @ Wantagh

Brandon Grayson “She has no fear,” Ferrick said. “She’s 5-8 and can shoot from the outside or drop her shoulder and drive.”

Junior forward Ailis DeTomasso is versatile and gritty, sophomore forward Kelsey Barrett can rebound and shoot, and sophomore guard Erin McElwain is lightningquick. Freshmen Katie McMahon and Julia Cava-

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

6:30 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 Hewlett 23 @ New Hyde Park

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 11 12 17 19 20 27

Roosevelt @ Roslyn Division @ Wantagh @ Hewlett New Hyde Park @ Roosevelt

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 3 Roslyn 8 @ Division 10 Wantagh

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Keith O’Reilly

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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

V.S. Central Eagles rebuild after mass exodus

W

By TONy BELLISSIMO

ith a senior-heavy roster and some underclassmen mixed in last season, the Eagles split their 10 games against Conference AA-2 opponents and qualified for the Nassau Class AA playoffs where eventual county and Long Island champion Baldwin beat them for a third time in the quarterfinals.

Not only did Central (9-11) graduate nine contributors, including four now playing at the collegiate level, but three others departed, leaving head coach Hayward Alfred with a major rebuilding project.

“It’s been a long time since we lost so many kids at once,” he said. “We’re totally revamped. We have some talent and we’ll get better as the season goes on.”

But with so much inexperience on the roster, Alfred said the non-league games are more imperative than ever to build chemistry and get a few wins that’ll help the confidence level. “Our conference may be the best in the county,” he said. “We gotta do whatever we can to get ready.

We don’t have a great deal of size, so rebounding is my biggest concern.”

Senior Elijah Robinson is the lone name on the roster with any varsity experience whatsoever. He’s a 6-foot-2 shooting guard who’s deceptively quick, rangy and athletic. “We’ll be counting on him to score,” Alfred said.

Sophomore Ahunna Okoko is up from JV to take over the point. “He’s a heady player with a pretty good handle,” Alfred said. “It’s going to be trial by fire, but he’ll be OK.” Junior forward Ryan Germoseu does a lot of the dirty work, banging the boards and TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

playing tough defense, and has a mid-range jumper to boot. Junior Malcolm Carter has a quality post-up game and is a nifty passer, while senior Amaninden Singh is the tallest (6-4) member of the team who’s getting acclimated to the system and speed of the varsity level. Singh could score some put-backs. Senior newcomers Khole Dock and Jamal Velox will also look to contribute.

In addition to Baldwin, the Eagles will face East Meadow, Hicksville, Plainview, Port Washington and Westbury twice apiece.

Influx of youth for Lady Eagles

It was a tale of two different halves for the Lady Eagles in 2015-16. They won six of their first nine games, including the Conference AA-2 opener, but finished on a nine-game slide with a handful of single-digit defeats.

“We had some injuries and we just couldn’t string anything together after the league opener,” head coach Malyssa Thorngren said.

“We don’t have a lot of experience returning, but I’m excited about the freshman group and many of them will contribute right away.”

Central returns two starters, senior guard Bella Gandasegui, a four-year member of the varsity, and senior forward Nicole Carter, who missed a chunk of last season after suffering a knee injury and a concussion.

Gandasegui is likely to handle point guard responsibilities but is also a proven shooting guard who can get hot and drain threes. “Bella’s a strong lefty shooter and a smart defender who went through some streaks last season,” Thorngren said. “She’ll handle the point and be a

leader. She certainly has the capabilities.”

When healthy, Carter is a strong presence in the paint and capable of scoring and rebounding in double figures.

Her buzzer-beater lifted the Lady Eagles over Plainview in last season’s conference win.

“She’s a good defender and rebounder who can also get to the basket,” Thorngren said.

“She gives us a nice presence inside.”

Some of the team’s five freshmen will crack the starting lineup and/or see considerable minutes. They include Janay Legagneur, Kailee Finn and Kayla Thomas.

Legagneur can play either forward spot and brings a Elijah Robinson 6-foot-1 frame and athleticism.

Finn, a 5-9 center, is another frontcourt with her reboundlefty who’s aggressive with ing and defensive abilities. and without the ball and can

Schedule

BoyS December 23 @ Plainview

7:00 p.m.

January 4 6 10 12 16 20 28

Baldwin 6:45 p.m.

Hicksville 4:30 p.m. @ Westbury 6:30 p.m.

East Meadow 7:00 p.m. @ Port Washington 12:30 p.m.

Plainview 6:45 p.m. @ Baldwin 5:00 p.m.

February Nicole Carter score underneath. “She’s not shy and has raw talent,” Thorngren said of Finn.

Thomas, a guard, comes off an All-County cross-country season and is one of the team’s hardest workers, the coach noted.

Sophomore Kaitlin Gabbidon is a quality shooting guard up from the JV, and senior Alexis Howard will help hold down the fort in the

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1 3 7 9

@ Hicksville Westbury @ East Meadow Port Washington

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 23 Plainview

6:30 p.m.

January 4 7 10 14 16 21 28

@ Baldwin @ Hicksville Westbury @ East Meadow Port Washington @ Plainview Baldwin

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

February 1 4 7 10

Hicksville @ Westbury East Meadow @ Port Washington

6:15 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

December 22, 2016 — 41

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

V.S. North Spartans eye another deep run

By JOE GALOTTI

L

ast winter, the Valley Stream North boys’ basketball team put together a memorable run, which included thrilling postseason wins over then two-time defending county champion Valley Stream South and Garden City, and an appearance in the Nassau Class A semifinal round at Hofstra.

With a new season just about to get underway, most of the Spartans’ 2015 roster has returned, and the team has another deep playoff run in mind.

“We feel that we’re at the same level as last year, if not a little bit better this year,” head coach Dan Achatz said.

“Our players want to get past that round where we were eliminated. Our kids want another chance to show how good they are.”

The Spartans will have two familiar and proven faces at the starting guards position this season. Junior Taliq Abdul-Rahim will run the point, after scoring 215 points as a sophomore.

“He’s our leader on the court,” Achatz said. “He runs the offense and leads us in transition. He’s a special player, that can either dish the ball or get to the basket almost whenever he wants.”

Alongside him will be senior Noah Shy, who Achatz refers to as the best all-around player on the squad.

“He boxes out, he rebounds, and he plays defense,” he said. “He guards the toughest offensive player on the opposing team game in and game out. He was our high scorer with 313 points on the season. He does it all.”

Senior Omar Baxter is also back, and is expected to once again be a key starting piece for the team after hit42 — December 22, 2016

ting some clutch shots a year ago. According to his coach, his value goes well beyond his strong shooting and rebounding.

“He’s one of those guys that makes a huge difference even though you don’t always see it until you watch it on film,” Achatz said.

Rounding out the starting five will be Lawrence Woodmere Academy transfer John Alimo and big man Shamari Griffith. Both can contribute a lot at both ends of the floor.

John Francois and Nafis Kahn will also likely log important minutes as sharp shooters off the bench.

Lady Spartans are plenty motivated A new era begins for the girls’ basketball program, as former Lady Spartans player Katie DiLapi takes over as head coach. The team is coming off a challenging 2015 campaign, yet hopes are high around the club with a new season about to unfold.

“I feel like we have a really motivated group of young ladies,” DiLapi said about her new players. “Their heads are at just reaching success, and they are very, very excited for this season.”

North features several seniors and returning players on its roster, which according to DiLapi has made her transition of taking over from successful predecessor Geoff O’Connell much easier.

“I was really lucky to be handed a team that already knows a lot of what they are supposed to be doing,” she said. “There is also a lot of strong leadership already in place on this team.”

One of the club’s leaders on and off the court will be senior guard Kelly Kroez.

DiLapi believes here shooting prowess should allow her to once again be one of the top

offensive producers.

North will also be hoping for big things from forward Lisa LoSchiavo, a senior capable of playing a starring role on both sides of the court.

“She will be at the three position for us, and should provide a lot of points, as well as some tough defense,” DiLapi said.

Rounding out the starting five will likely be guard Jessie Bonitto, and forwards Enyonum Mensah and Sam Elbert. Juniors Alexa Foster and Jaqueline Winslow also should be big players in Dilapi’s rotation.

After a season in which wins were difficult to come by, DiLapi feels that better things are ahead for the Lady Spartans, who compete in Conference A-III with Bethpage, defending county champion Floral Park, Glen

Lisa LoSchiavo

Schedule

BoyS December

Matt Guilfoyle 19 @ Glen Cove 22 Lynbrook

6:30 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

January 5 11 14 17 19 21 31

@ Bethpage Plainedge Floral Park @ Lawrence Glen Cove @ Lynbrook Bethpage

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February Noah Shy Cove, Lawrence, Lynbrook and Plainedge.

“We’re just trying to take little steps forward each time out,” she said. “Everyone’s heart is so into this year, and I feel like we’re going to be better. We just need to make sure we communicate, and follow through on all of our plays.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 @ Plainedge 8 @ Floral Park 10 Lawrence

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

19 Glen Cove 22 @ Lynbrook

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December January

6 12 14 17 19 21 31

Bethpage @ Plainedge @ Floral Park Lawrence @ Glen Cove Lynbrook @ Bethpage

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 Plainedge 8 Floral Park 10 @ Lawrence

6:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

V.S. South Falcons bring depth and size

By JOE GALOTTI

t

his season Valley Stream South is making the shift to Conference A4 boys’ basketball. While the team will be dealt a new group of clubs to contend with, the aspirations for the Falcons have not changed.

“The goal is to win the conference,” head coach Matt Johnsen said. “With what we have returning, and with the guards and the bigs that we have, we are looking to get a pretty good seed, and hopefully make some noise in the playoffs.”

In recent years the Falcons have found success behind star players like Dana King and Hall Elisias. This winter’s roster is more notable for its depth, and its group of 10 experienced seniors.

“I think our returning players are excited to put their own stamp on things,” Johnsen said. “I have about four kids that can go for 20 points at about anytime. It’s going to be a nice cohesive unit that works together.”

The Falcons will be looking for big things from their senior backcourt duo of Daniel Sarpong and Ozzy Traill. Sarpong is a talented pass-first point guard, while Traill features tremendous athleticism and a great shot.

“They both were really working on their games during the offseason,” Johnsen said.

“We’ll really being counting on them.”

Dominic Arcodia will be another valuable weapon, and is projected to start at the three spot.

“Dom’s a real good shooter, and can play above the rim,” Johnsen said. “He plays basketball all year long, and his basketball IQ is through the roof. He’s a real positive influence on the team.”

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

In the frontcourt, Johnsen is hoping the Falcons can overwhelm other teams with their size. Power forward Isaiah Taylor is close to 6-foot-5 and center Keiron Jeremiah is 6-6.

“We’re going to be real big,” Johnsen said. “Teams are going to have trouble matching up with our size in the front court, and we’re going to try and use that to our advantage.”

Also look for Marcus Gueye, Derek Maldonado, Zion Guzman and Matt Benavides to make an impact.

Lady Falcons’ goal: reach playoffs Last season saw a positive step forward for the Valley Stream South girls, as the program doubled its 2014-15 win total, coming away victorious in six games. This winter, the Lady Falcons will be competing with a relatively young roster, but still hope to continue their recent upwards trend.

“I think our collective goal is to make the playoffs,” rookie head coach Mike O’Brien said. “We’ve had a little bit of a drought the past few years, but we’re really hoping to get back there this year.”

One of the biggest challenges the Lady Falcons will face this season is overcoming the losses of talented Nicole Cutrone and Uju Nwaigwe.

“Offensively we need to find some different ways to score the ball,” O’Brien said.

“We have a lot of speed on our team this year, and we’re going to use that to our advantage and run up and down the court a bit. We’re very athletic and I think that should work to our advantage.”

Speedy sophomore Chibugo Obichere will be a big part of South’s effort to play a fastpaced game. “She is one our premier players this year,”

O’Brien said. “She really had a breakout season last year in her first season as a varsity player.”

O’Brien also noted Kelyse Land as a player to keep an eye on. In her fourth year playing at the varsity level, she will be counted on for veteran leadership. Junior Caitlyn Lopeck is another quality returning player for the team, and can be a difference maker with her athleticism and defensive abilities.

The Lady Falcons’ starting lineup also features eighth-grader Hailey Roberts at the point

Daniel Sarpong

Schedule BoyS

Matt Guilfoyle December

19 West Hempstead 22 @ Mineola

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 6 11 17 19 21 27 31

@ North Shore Island Trees @ Clarke Friends Academy @ West Hempstead Mineola North Shore @ Island Trees

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

February Chibugo Obichere guard position. Januz Francis is expected to round out the club’s starting five, while Keira Arthur and Deanna Martin will serve as key role players coming off the bench.

South’s girls’ squad will also participate in Conference A4 this season. O’Brien says he is looking forward to seeing how his team stacks up in matchups against perennial powerhouse North Shore, Island Trees and Mineola.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 Clarke 7:30 p.m.

10 @ Friends Academy 6:15 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

22 Mineola 7:30 p.m.

January 3 6 11 17 19 27 31

North Shore Island Trees Clarke @ Friends Academy West Hempstead @ North Shore Island Trees

7:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February 1 @ Mineola 3 @ Clarke 10 Friends Academy

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

December 22, 2016 — 43

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Wantagh

Seniors set tone for Warriors

By ANDREW COEN

W

antagh’s boys’ basketball team is looking for a return to the playoffs this winter with an experienced senior class.

The Warriors graduated two starters from a team that went 5-12 and 4-9 in league play, but bring back four seniors who started many games as juniors. The Warriors are seeking the program’s first postseason berth since 2013.

“We have a lot of experience coming back this year,” head coach Keith Hunter said. “A lot of the guys earned plenty of minutes and that is really going to make a difference.”

Wantagh is led on offense by senior point guard Connor L’eplattenier, who averaged 7.6 points per game as a junior. Senior shooting guard T.J. Sullivan also return to the backcourt for his final year of high school basketball after averaging 9.5 points a game with 27 three-pointers.

The Warriors bring back senior experience in the paint with 6-foot-3 center Sean Gutfleisch and 6-4 power forward Sam Goldfarb. The inside duo are key in picking up crucial rebounds and also add scoring threats near the basket.

“Knowing this is their last shot they are really bringing it at practice,” Hunter said of his experienced senior class.

“They have had some great intensity.”

Wantagh has plenty of depth and to keep the team fresh Hunter plans to utilize forwards Steve Forman, Anthony Teresky and Mike Dingler as well as backup center Taylor Gaffney. Guards Mike Burke and Chris Hogan add additional options in the backcourt.

“I have the guys buying 44 — December 22, 2016

into the team approach,” Hunter said. “If we have different guys leading in scoring each game we are doing what we need to do as far as distributing the ball.”

Wantagh is aiming to make the playoffs and earn a first round playoff game by placing first or second in Conference A-II. The league also features Division, Hewlett, South Side, Roosevelt, New Hyde Park, and Roslyn. The Warriors can also punch a postseason spot by finishing third or earning at least a .500 record.

Youth movement for Lady Warriors The Lady Warriors will put a young team on the court that longtime head coach Stan Bujacich hopes can mold into a championship contender.

“We have a lot of new faces,” said Bujacich, who won his 300th career game last year during a 13-7 season that ended with a first round loss to Lynbrook. “We’re figuring out what kind of team we are going to be.”

Wantagh lost some size inside after the graduation of power forward Darcie Smith and Bujacich is eyeing a faster-paced play to match the strength of a roster filled with a majority of underclassmen.

“We would like to be a little more up-tempo this year,” Bujacich said. “We have a very athletic team.”

Wantagh returns three starters led by junior captain Julianna Kissane, who will run the offense at point guard following the graduation of five-year varsity player Nikki Sliwak. Sophomore guard Caitlin Albanese is the leading returning offensive player after averaging 8 points per game as a freshman to earn All Class A honors.

“They are all high IQ play-

ers,” Bujacich said of his returning starters. “They understand what needs to be done.”

Wantagh has plenty of capable guards ready to step on the floor including Marykate Delgais, Brianna Derham, Madison Einhorn and Megan Luce.

Sophomore 5-10 forward/ center Hannah Doherty adds some size closer to basket after earning some minutes as a freshman. Forward Julia Wilkinson, another freshman, is also making strides after earning a spot on JV as an eighth grader. Sophomore Angela Labenberg and senior Delaney Boutin provide the Warriors additional depth in the paint.

The Lady Warriors began preseason practices with 12 players, but are expected to also add junior guard Cheyenne Johnson into the mix

Caitlin Albanese “We want to win the conference,” Bujacich said. “We have some tough games ahead of us.”

Schedule

BoYS Matt Guilfoyle December

19 @ Roslyn 22 Division

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 6 11 14 17 19 21 31

@ Hewlett New Hyde Park Roosevelt @ South Side Roslyn @ Division Hewlett

7:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February Connor L’eplattenier when she is cleared to play from an injury. Johnson averaged six points a game as a sophomore.

Wantagh will be challenged in Conference A-II, which features South Side, Division, New Hyde Park, Roosevelt and Roslyn. In conference action last season, the Lady Warriors fell short against South Side twice and split with Roosevelt.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 @ New Hyde Park 8 @ Roosevelt 10 South Side

6:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

GIRLS December 16 Roslyn 22 @ Division

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 6 11 14 17 19 21 31

Hewlett @ New Hyde Park @ Roosevelt South Side @ Roslyn Division @ Hewlett

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 3 New Hyde Park 8 Roosevelt 10 @ South Side

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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865779

Champions Train Here!

December 22, 2016 — 45

2016-17 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

West Hempstead Better times ahead for Rams is an athletic guard/forward who should put up numbers in multiple areas on the score sheet.

Paul Drysdale, a 6-foot-4 senior, does a nice job on the boards and has a soft shooting touch. Senior Jordan Lewis is relentless on the offensive boards and has improved his mid-range game.

A pair of versatile seniors will contribute a great deal.

Zion Spruill defends and rebounds well, while Savion Thorpe can hit threes, and play both guard and forward.

game as a freshman, has improved her play in the post and appears ready to hold her own against the conference’s toughest frontcourt players. est Hempstead Van Kovics hopes Flash will comes off its most spend plenty of time on difficult boys’ basthe line where she has a ketball season in recent hissweet touch. tory. The Rams had a tough A pair of freshmen time finding the bottom of will man the backcourt the net, and won just four for West Hempstead. games. Graduation did a Left-handed point guard number of the team’s roster, Haley Duran likes to hit but the Rams bring back the seams and take the ball their leading scorer, other key to the rack, and is capable returnees, and some talented of getting hot from the newcomers. perimeter. Jenna Eivasi West Hempstead expects to Lady Rams expect has the green light to fire be among the teams fighting it up from the outside. Eivasi to be improved for a trip to the playoffs in should get plenty of looks.

The 2015-16 season was a Conference A-IV, a league that Another freshman, Katie frustrating one for the West welcomes in Valley Stream Shanley, gives the Rams Hempstead girls. The Lady South and North Shore.

Island Trees, Clarke, Mineola, Rams struggled mightily and size and rebounding ability didn’t register a single victory at forward. Shanley does an and Friends Academy round excellent job of getting in in league play, though they out the conference. the passing lanes and forcwere competitive in most Head coach Ed Cosgrove games. expects his team to be in the The program’s numbers thick of things. “We come are low, so, once again, West in this season with a differHempstead will not have a ent approach,” Cosgrove junior varsity team. However, said. “I think we’ll be able a team mainly composed of to play with anyone in the conference. While the guys we underclassmen is showing return didn’t get a lot of time, signs of promise. Expect the they have varsity experience. Lady Rams to get in the win column in a conference comWe should be able to defend and rebound. We have to take prised of Friends Academy, care of the ball and cut down North Shore, Mineola, Island Trees, Valley Stream South, on turnovers.” and Clarke.

Christian Martinez averHead coach Chris Van aged 13 points per game as a Ja’nya Flash Kovics has reason to believe junior, and dropped a careerhis team will be improved. high 30 on Malverne. The “We’re very young and All-Conference guard is the ing turnovers. Junior Lydia team’s best perimeter shooter inexperienced, but we will Almeida gives the team verdefinitely be a better team and has the ability to put the ball on the floor and get to the than we were a year ago,” Van satility. Almeida will play a forward position, but she has Kovics said. basket.

“We just have to follow the the skill to bring the ball up Junior John Granholm is the floor. blueprint,” he added. “Keep a pass-first point guard who Freshman Korrina Plairopponents from getting mulhandles the ball well and tiple attempts on possessions, Johnson, sophomore Attallah can knock down open shots.

Innis, and seniors Maria try to hit double digits each Senior Matt Morel provides quarter, and try to make more Graci and Shantel Minto will quality depth at guard, and free throws than the opponent all contribute. gives Cosgrove the flexibility attempts.” to go to a smaller lineup.

Sophomore Ja’nya Flash Junior Christopher Jeanis the team’s go-to girl. Flash, Louis is a player with trewho averaged 10 points per mendous upside. Jean-Louis

By ANDREW MccLURE

W

46 — December 22, 2016

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Christian Martinez

Schedule

Matt Guilfoyle

BoyS December

19 @ V.S. South

4:30 p.m.

January 6 9 11 14 17 19 21 31

@ Mineola 5:00 p.m.

Friends Academy 4:30 p.m.

North Shore 4:30 p.m.

Island Trees 12:00 p.m. @ Clarke 7:00 p.m.

V.S. South 4:30 p.m. @ Friends Academy 1:00 p.m.

Mineola 4:30 p.m.

February 3 @ North Shore 7 @ Island Trees 10 Clarke

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 19 V.S. South

4:30 p.m.

January 6 9 11 14 17 19 21 31

@ Mineola 7:00 p.m. @ Friends Academy 4:30 p.m. @ North Shore 5:30 p.m. @ Island Trees 11:00 p.m.

Clarke 4:45 p.m. @ V.S. South 5:30 p.m.

Friends Academy 12:00 p.m.

Mineola 6:30 p.m.

February 3 North Shore 7 Island Trees 10 @ Clarke

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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December 22, 2016 — 47

“To my patients and colleagues, I’m a Castle Connolly top orthopedic surgeon. But to athletes, I’m a trusted adviser and former coach.”

CRAIG LEVITZ, MD Chair, Orthopedic Surgery, South Nassau Communities Hospital; Castle Connolly “Top Doctor” since 2007

RENOWNED SPORTS MEDICINE SPECIALIST CRAIG LEVITZ, MD, is at the top of his field — and on top of his game. Director of our fellowship-trained team of orthopedic specialists, Dr. Levitz was also a longtime volunteer coach to four lacrosse teams. He pioneers minimally invasive and arthroscopic techniques for knees and shoulders that promote faster healing because he knows just how important it is to get you back in the game — and on with your life.

For more information, contact the Center for Advanced Orthopedics, the Shoulder Center or the Long Island Joint Replacement Institute.

One Healthy Way at Merrick Road in Oceanside.

877-SOUTH-NASSAU or visit southnassau.org.

878515

48 — December 22, 2016

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS