Herald Basketball EAST 12-20-201

2018-19 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS PREVIEW December 20, 2018

BASKETBALL

INSIDE

PROSPECTS FOR THE ’18-19 SEASON

25 SCHOOLS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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December 20, 2018 — 3

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

TEAM IndEx Baldwin Bruins ................................ 6 Calhoun Colts (Bellmore-Merrick) ... 7 Carey Seahawks (Franklin Square) . 8 Clarke Rams (Westbury) .............. 10 East Meadow Jets ........................ 12 East Rockaway Rocks................... 14 Elmont Spartans .......................... 15 Freeport Red Devils ...................... 16 Hewlett Bulldogs .......................... 17 Kennedy Cougars (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 18 Lawrence Golden Tornadoes ......... 22 Long Beach Marines..................... 23 Lynbrook Owls .............................. 26 MacArthur Generals ..................... 28 Malverne Mules ............................ 29 Mepham Pirates (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 30 Oceanside Sailors ........................ 32 Seaford Vikings ............................ 34 Sewanhaka Indians (Floral Park)... 36 South Side Cyclones (Rockville Centre) ......................... 38 Valley Stream Central Eagles ........ 40 Valley Stream North Spartans ...... 42 Valley Stream South Falcons ........ 44 Wantagh Warriors ......................... 45 West Hempstead Rams ................ 46

Basketball Preview a special advertising supplement to the herald community newspapers

Publisher Stuart richner Vice President of Sales rhonda Glickman Executive Editor Scott Brinton Section Editor tony BelliSSimo Page Editors tony BelliSSimo Jeff BeSSen Contributing Writers tony BelliSSimo andrew mcclure andrew coen Brian kacharaBa JoSePh kellard Garrett d. uriBe daVid weinGrad Creative Director Editorial Designer Jeffrey a. neGrin Photo Editor chriStina daly

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Basketball Preview is an advertising supplement to the Herald Community Newspapers. Copyright © 2018 Richner Communications, Inc. Published by richner communications, inc. 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 (516) 569-4000 • www.ilherald.com 4 — December 20, 2018

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 20, 2018 — 5

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Baldwin Bruins have eyes on the prize In the low post, seniors Marcus Jasmin and Tre Riggins are both coming off All-Conference campaigns. They both have a soft touch around the basket and the ability to score in double figures.

Junior power forward Isaiah Walker does all the dirty work that doesn’t show up in the boxscore.

dolph, one of the first off the bench last season, and senior guard Alexis Aponte, who will be an important perimaldwin is looking to return eter weapon when opponents to the top of Nassau Class employ a zone defense.

AA after a run to the finals Senior Mariah Benevides despite an inexperienced roster. can play both guard spots and The Bruins won 15 games for a is a pesky defender, while second straight season as well as senior Nicolette Manzella a conference title but were denied has good shooting range.

Lady Bruins begin a the coveted county hardware by Senior forward Jamiela new chapter Uniondale.

Moore brings energy and All the Lady Bruins did last “We only had two returncan make things happen season was make Long Island girls’ in transition with her ing varsity guys last season and basketball history. They became the agility.

I was really pleased with getting to the finals and challenging for a first L.I. team to win back-to-back Catapano said championship,” head coach Darius state championships and then Syosset, Masswrote a storybook ending with a Burton said. “We want to build apequa and off that experience. We had a very come-from-behind 58-49 victory Freeport could strong offseason and I think if you over Christ The King in the NYS prove the biggest Federation Class AA final. ask people, we’re probably the hurdles in the Baldwin, which defeated Long Class AA picture. team to beat on paper.”

Island Lutheran in the FederaWith third-year point guard “We lost six tion semis, finished 26-1. Its lone Rhyjon Blackwell steering the of our seven returning starter this winter is Kaia leading scorers offense, Baldwin figures to be a Harrison, who was MVP of the handful for Conference AA-II opand don’t bring Federation Tournament and bound back much size, ponents Westbury, Hicksville, Port Washington, East Meadow, Plain- for Wake Forest. First, she’ll try to so offensive prolead an otherwise unproven squad duction and view and Long Beach. Blackwell to the program’s sixth straight earned All-County honors after rebounding Nassau County crown. averaging 15 points and 4 assists are the two “Last season was magical and main concerns,” per game, hitting 58 treys in the we’re excited to see how we’re process. “He lives in the gym and he said. going to do with almost an entire is always working on his game,” new group,” head coach Tom Burton said. “He’s a second-year Catapano said. “It’s a new chapter captain who leads us on and off and there’s a lot of unanswered the court.” questions.”

Working behind Blackwell Harrison returns as the is junior Jayden McKenzie, who primary point guard after earning is lightning quick and a strong All-County honors a season ago. on-the-ball defender. Senior Peter Bateman is a returning All-Confer- “Kaia’s a complete player and a ence guard who defends well and tremendous leader,” he noted.

“She’s always been a key cog can slash to the basket. He’ll start or play the role of sixth man again. in our defense and her role on Junior Kamani Jones is a perimeter offense is going to expand.”

With the other four starters threat, while senior transfer Dwight departed, along with a couple of Levy can shoot and handle. vital role players, there’s no shortThe frontcourt has been age of opportunities for major bolstered by senior transfer Tavin Alexis Aponte minutes. Catapano, who built Pierre, who played at Christ The the same daunting non-league King. He helped the Bruins win a schedule, said it could take him a pair of summer league titles and can not only fill the basket but likes while to settle on a rotation.

Among those in line expected to to rack up assists. “He’s a scorer provide significant contributions and an unselfish one at that,” include junior forward Elena RanBurton said.

By TONy BELLISSIMO

B

6 — December 20, 2018

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Rhyjon Blackwell

Schedule

Matt Guilfoyle BoyS

December

18 @ Port Washington 7:00 p.m.

21 Westbury 7:00 p.m.

January 3 9 12 15 18 26 29

@ East Meadow Hicksville @ Long Beach Plainview Port Washington @ Westbury East Meadow

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February 2 @ Hicksville 5 Long Beach 8 @ Plainview

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 18 Port Washington

7:00 p.m.

January 3 7 9 15 17 18 26 29

@ East Meadow @ Westbury @ Hicksville @ Plainview Long Beach @ Port Washington Westbury East Meadow

4:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

February 2 Hicksville 5 @ Long Beach 8 Plainview

3:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

CalHoun Talented backcourt to steer Colts At 6-foot-5, senior Ryan Ferrulli is a top rebounder, as is Owen Rose, a capable defender who can also shoot with some range.

Rose is among two sophomores Kreutzberger brought up from JV along with Patrick Sanchez, a good outside shooter.

Calhoun plays in the restructured Conference A1 with Mepham, Herricks, Valley Stream Central, Garden City, Great Neck South and MacArthur.

“Our season will be predicated on how cohesive we play as a team,” Kreutzberger said. “If we jell and build a chemistry, we could win our conference.”

of potential forwards in Holly Dipalo, a strong and athletic freshman; junior Taylor Schanstra, who has a alhoun heads into its 2018long wingspan that can help out 19 campaign with several defensively; and sophomore Rylee players vying for starting Raines, a lacrosse player who is a spots. It’ll look to build on a 14-7 good finisher. overall record that included a firstA sophomore duo with point round Class AA playoff win against guard potential is Isabell Kessler East Meadow before falling to and Olivia Roberto, both able ball Baldwin in February. handlers and quick learners. Ava The Colts return two starting Bayat, Lauren Rossi and Nicole senior guards in Corey Jones and Devlin are other sophomores Thomas Casimano, who earned who are athletic, fast and agAll-County and All-Conference gressive and could start a few honors, respectively. weeks into the season.

Jones is the top returning The Colts last season scorer who will move around, play went 14-7 and lost in the some wing and shoot from the quarterfinals to eventual New starting five outside, where he can be tough to state champs Baldwin. guard. “Corey is our most polished for Lady Colts Despite entering the The Lady Colts are a green and skilled offensive player,” head season without much and undersized squad in rebuilding experience, the team has coach Jay Kreutzberger said. mode after graduating a starting Athletic and fast, Casimano a strong work ethic and five of all seniors in June. Head gets his teammates moving up positive attitude that coach Pete Magnuson, though, is and down the court quickly and should carry them a encouraged by his energetic playdefends and shoots well. long way, Magnuson “Tom only averaged about six ers, most of whom he plans to play said. this season. points a game and we’re hoping “By playing a Lisa-Ann Orlich will see he makes a substantial jump lot of girls, because considerably more time as a senior I can get nine or forward this year,” Kreutzberger starter, having developed a nice said.

10 of them on the inside game and her leadership as- floor,” he added, Jake Edwards started last season but was injured and missed sets. “She has really stepped up as “we can get out significant time. The forward-center a leader not only by her effort and and press people will start again and add toughness attitude but also as a vocal leader,” and somehow Magnuson said of the 5-6 forward. cause turnovers and and physicality to the squad.

Orlich is the tallest player on An athletic junior, Malek tire teams out.” the team along with forward Taylor Graham is a quick dribbler and Baumann, who compliments her rebounder who started and came on the boards and has a sweet off the bench last season and proved he’s among the team’s best mid-range jump shot.

What junior starting scorers. guard Chloe McGuire lacks in Another potential starter varsity experience, she will try to is freshman point guard Chris compensate for with her skill at Stokel, a skilled ball handler and passer who is a quick learner with ball handling and knocking down shots, as Magnuson expects. exceptional vision. Senoir guard Fourth starter Allie Trabold Zac Solomon delivers defensive is a senior guard without varsity pressure and drives and kicks the playing experience but possesses ball out to perimeter players. Senior football standout Ariel DeJesus basketball smarts and a reliable returns after a freshman stint with outside shot.

Magnuson said he has eight the basketball program and has already elevated the team’s inten- other players he believes can Cory James contribute either as starters or sity and physicality, Kreutzberger off the bench.

They include a trio noted.

By JOSEPH KELLARD

C

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Lisa-Ann Orlich

Schedule BoyS December 17 G.N. South 20 @ V.S. Central

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 16 19 25 29 31

@ Herricks MacArthur @ Mepham Garden City @ G.N. South V.S. Central Herricks @ MacArthur

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

February 2 Mepham 8 @ Garden City

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 @ G.N. South 20 V.S. Central

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 16 19 25 29 31

Herricks @ MacArthur Mepham @ Garden City G.N. South @ V.S. Central @ Herricks MacArthur

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 @ Mepham 8 Garden City

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

December 20, 2018 — 7

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Carey New guidance for positive Seahawks

By ANDREW MccLURE

T

he Carey boys come off a season that saw them pick up just three wins overall while going winless in league play.

The team will once again play an unforgiving non-league schedule before getting things started in what figures to be one of the county’s toughest conferences.

The Seahawks will compete in Conference A-II with Jericho, Bellmore JFK, Great Neck North, and Manhasset, and intradistrict rivals Elmont, Sewanhaka, and New Hyde Park.

Carey had trouble finding the bottom of the net in 2017-18, but hopes an active defensive presence and an up-tempo style of play will help to generate more offense.

The Seahawks will have a different look as Steven Savino takes over for long-time head coach Marty Kelly.

“The energy level is high and the guys have such positive attitudes,” Savino said. “We’re improving every day. The approach is to keep trying to move forward.

If things aren’t going our way, we have to fight through it.”

Senior Nick Bell will run offense from the point. Bell is an excellent defender and a strong perimeter shooter who sees the floor real well. His ability to make heady decisions is essential for a Carey team that will look to force the issue and create offense off its defense.

Sophomore Chris Toscano is back for his second year with the varsity. Toscano can light it up from the field and hits the boards hard. Junior Garrett Scavelli can shoot the three from just about anywhere or beat his man off the dribble and get to the basket.

Sophomore Alex Pinto’s ability to play three different positions gives Carey depth at guard.

The Seahawks should be improved in the frontcourt. Senior Matt Cosgrove is solid from block 8 — December 20, 2018

to block and has a nice shooting touch. Sophomore James Cosgrove brings talent and versatility. Both Cosgrove boys are tough on the boards.

Senior Pat McGrath, a three-sport athlete, is physical in the paint and on the backboards.

Senior Nick Giacalone is a strong rebounder who has a knack for getting to the basket.

Experience will help Lady Seahawks

hue lauded her basketball IQ and attention to detail. Carey will look to run offensive sets designed to get senior guard Jenna Lim numerous opportunities to score.

Sophomore Kayla Todzia, the point guard from last year’s junior varsity team, will take pressure off McGrath by enabling her to play off the ball. Sophomore Emma Cavalli provides depth off the bench.

Donahue describes junior Mary Grace Spano the glue of the team. Unfortunately, Spano will be out of the lineup with an injury for the second straight season. Junior Arianna Millan is the team’s only true frontcourt player. Millan boxes out, hits the boards hard, and understands what it takes to play in the paint.

Vanessa Tortorella is a scrappy defensive

The Carey girls found the win column just once over the past two seasons, but they’ll look to turn things around with a more manageable non-league schedule, and a roster composed of numerous players with at least one year of varsity experience.

Wins and losses will not be the only measuring stick for the Lady Seahawks. Playing in a conference that includes Sewanhaka and Manhasset, each of which went undefeated in winning

their respective league titles, and Elmont, which not only went undefeated in league play, but advanced to the state championship game after capturing another county title, will be beyond challenging.

Carey second-year head coach Danielle Donahue keeps it all in perspective. “I’m not concerned about the scores of games, but about how the girls handle things,” Donahue explained. “They need to realize that they have the Kelly-Ann McGrath potential to play this game well. I just want them to play hard and hold their heads high. It’s about player. Michelle Almonte and Bless-approach, effort, and attitude.” ing Bafunso will both contribute at Kelly-Ann McGrath will again forward. be the go-to weapon. The junior point guard averaged 14.3 points per game despite being the player that opponents attempted to shut down. McGrath is a strong ball handler with a solid perimeter game.

Senior Athanasia Tzakas has made considerable improvement on both ends of the court. DonaHIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Garrett Scavelli

Schedule

BoyS December 17 @ Kennedy 19 @ Elmont

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 19 25 29 31

Manhasset Sewanhaka @ Jericho G.N. North New Hyde Park Kennedy Elmont @ Manhasset @ Sewanhaka

5:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

February 2 Jericho 12:00 p.m.

6 @ G.N. North 6:45 p.m.

9 @ New Hyde Park 10:00 a.m.

GIRLS December 17 Kennedy 20 Elmont

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 19 25 29 31

@ Manhasset @ Sewanhaka Jericho @ G.N. North New Hyde Park @ Kennedy @ Elmont Manhasset Sewanhaka

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

11:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

February 2 @ Jericho 12:00 p.m.

6 G.N. North 4:30 p.m.

9 @ New Hyde Park 11:00 a.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1008320

December 20, 2018 — 9

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Clarke Rams to rely heavily on backcourt especially on defense where the Rams play mostly man-to-man but will inject some 2-3 zone.

The up-and-coming Nahum Rivera is “perhaps the best pure shooter on the team,” said Hasbrouck, who noted the junior can really make an impact once he develops his footwork and plays quicker.

After a 4-15 playoff-less campaign last season, the Rams will compete in the realigned Conference A-V with Mineola, West Hempstead, Island Trees, Friends Academy and newcomers Seaford and Locust Valley.

scheme that will feature more zone. “The girls kind of gravitate to her, listen to her and respond to her, which is someith a squad of players thing that’s good to have 6-foot-1 or under and as a coach because she’s a guard-heavy starting kind of like an extension of lineup, Clarke boys must rebound me on the floor,” Fean said and organize offensively at half of Calabrese. court to win in 2018-19, said head Fean has built a motioncoach Joe Hasbrouck. first, pass-reliant offense Junior guard/forward designed to make everyone a Brian Sullivan leads the way after scoring option or to otherwise averaging 9.5 rebounds per game shine. It’s a philosophy that last season, the second-best on left the fourth and fifth starter the team. Quick and aggressive, spots up for grabs heading into Sullivan and will assume a greater the season. leadership role.

Among those vying for “Brian’s not very vocal but Lady Rams must positions are senior guard he’s finished first in sprints and overcome some Haley Singer, who has seems to be really paying attention hurdles developed a more consistent to doing things the right way,” Young, inexperienced and outside shot, sophomore Hasbrouck said. undersized, the Lady Rams are Emily Familette, who at 5-9 Junior guard Michael Paul nonetheless practicing to compete brings size as the tallest player can sink balls from midrange and in Conference A-V after going 7-12 on the team, and sophomore get to the rim. “He’s good on the and missing the postseason in Sara Bongiorno, a fast-developing wings and in that elbow area,” 2017-18. inside scoring option and reboundHasbrouck said of Paul.

The team returns two starters er. Another promising player in the Speedy junior guard and mix is junior Melissa Martins. varsity newcomer Lyvan Velasquez in junior point guard Graceann Murphy and senior forward Emily The Lady Rams will is a capable ballhandler, adept in compete against the same transition and attacks the basket at Carman.

An All-Conference selection conference teams as Clarke will. last season, Murphy has developed boys except for Friends Lacking a natural post presa reliable 12-to-14-foot jump shot Academy, who was ence, the Rams will run a dribblereclassified as a B and-drive offense to push the ball and creates opportunities for herin transition, create space and find self and her teammates, said head school for girls. coach Shaun Fean, who expects the open man. the Iona-bound soccer player to Toward this end, both Arton increase her scoring average from Dalipi, the lone senior and vocal leader among the starting five, and 9 points to about 15 per game.

“Graceann is just an alljunior point guard Tyler DeSimaround good athlete who is super one have good IQs for spacing, quick and the ball will be in her Hasbrouck said. The hardworking Dalipi also delivers an exceptional hands most of the time,” he said.

Fean also looks for Carman, who defensive game; DeSimone provides sharp standstill shooting and shows good moves down in the post, to up her point totals. “We’re skills at running offensive sets. looking for Emily to step up and Hasbrouck believes he has a really provide some secondary deep bench that includes junior scoring in addition to Graceann, Nick Caputo, a football standout that brings toughness to the court, which will hopefully be enough for us on the offensive end to squeeze and senior Anthony Caputo, a lacrosse player who often stands in out some games,” he said.

The versatile junior guardthe right spot as the ball seems to Michael Paul find him. Senior and captain Jason forward Hailey Calabrese is a Oo is the team’s most vocal leader, natural leader, great passer and defensive stalwart in a man-heavy

By JOSEPH KELLARD

W

10 — December 20, 2018

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Graceann Murphy

Matt Guilfoyle

Schedule

BoyS December 17 West Hempstead 20 @ Island Trees

7:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 3 5 8 16 19 25 29 31

@ Mineola 7:00 p.m.

Locust Valley 12:00 p.m. @ Seaford 7:00 p.m.

Friends Academy 7:00 p.m. @ West Hempstead 10:00 a.m.

Island Trees 7:00 p.m.

Mineola 7:00 p.m. @ Locust Valley 6:45 p.m.

February 2 Seaford 12:00 p.m.

9 @ Friends Academy 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 West Hempstead

4:30 p.m.

January 4 9 12 15 18 26 30

@ Island Trees 5:00 p.m. @ Locust Valley 5:00 p.m. @ Seaford 12:00 p.m.

Mineola 5:00 p.m. @ West Hempstead 6:30 p.m.

Island Trees 1:00 p.m.

Locust Valley 5:00 p.m.

February 1 Seaford 7 @ Mineola

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 20, 2018 — 11

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

EaST MEadow Jets banking on good chemistry and Sehajdeep Singh, who will otherwise come off the bench.

Varsity newcomer Nelo Williams, who shoots and drives to the rim well, is another option. hird-year head coach Bobby Kopp believes his East The Jets return to Confer ConferMeadow boys’ squad will buy ence AA-2 and will face perennial into his team-concept brand of ball power Baldwin, Westbury, Hicksafter going 7-10 overall and losing ville, Port Washington, Plainview a Nassau Class AA first-round play- and newcomer Long Beach twice apiece. off game at Calhoun last season.

“I think we have a great Lady Jets turn group of kids who work hard, want to do well and realize they focus to defense can be good if they play together,” After graduating the Lady Kopp said.

Jets’ all-time leading scorer The Jets have two bona fide Emily Shurina, senior starters in 6-foot-4 guard/ head coach forward Sultan Mirza, an AllPete Olenik is County selection who averaged emphasizing 17 points per game last season defense while and will likely lead on offense, developing his playdefense, rebounding and ball ers to make up for the 20 handling, and 6-3 point guard points she averaged each game to Harry Nicholsen, who returns after compete in Conference AA-2 this averaging 19 points the first six season. games before having to leave the “I think defensively we’re team in 2017-18. going to be very solid and the “Harry is back and is bigger defense is what’s going to make and stronger and we’re going to our offense go,” Olenik said. need his outside shot this year,” Starters 6-1 senior point Kopp said. “It’s going to be key for guard Alyssa Yablansky and 6-2 both him and Sultan to hit the ball junior forward Stephanie Spar Sparfrom the outside.” kowski are strong defenders who Along with Mirza, 6-3 senior forwill lead the one-three-one zone ward Dean Lanza is an exemplary scheme that will now incorporate team captain who works hard at some man-to-man to help shut practice each day. Lanza will prove down opposing offenses. pivotal on the offensive boards, East Meadow’s one-four finishing in transition and knocking UCLA motion offense will run down the open three, Kopp said. through the team’s 6-3 junior cen-Senior center Jihad Prunty ter Danielle Hippner, an All-County (6-5) was hampered by injuries last honoree along with Shurina last season but is expected to bounce season. back and man the middle in an Hippner, who grew in size up-tempo, semi-freelance offense and strength last spring and sumfeaturing dribble-drive action, mer while playing travel team ball, screen and rolls and handoffs. is expected to up her 12-points“In order for us to be good, per-game average. we really have to become a good “Down on the block Danielle half-court team,” Kopp said. is going to be very, very difficult With junior power forward to guard on the defensive end; Kyle Nelson sidelined until at least she’s going to be a nightmare for late January while recovering teams,” Olenik said. from shoulder surgery, the fifth The Lady Jets will look for starter spot is up for grabs. The two points in the post-Shurina era from senior guards who will compete sophomore guard Rhoda Williams, for the position are Chris Forrler whose shooting has improved

By JOSEPH KELLARD

T

12 — December 20, 2018

enough to become a starter after delivering high energy off the bench last season.

Sophomore Julie Tanenblatt will round out the starting five after Olenik brought the playmaker up from junior varsity for the playoffs last season when the Lady Jets

Sultan Mirza

(13-8 overall) defeated Plainview before falling to Massapequa in the second round.

Other former JV players poised to contribute significant minutes are junior Jules Sanzone

The Lady Jets plan to vie for a playoff spot. The top four in AA-2 automatically qualify.

Matt Guilfoyle

Schedule

BoyS December 18 @ @ Westbury Westbury

6:45 6:45 p.m. p.m.

January 3 5 9 12 15 18 29 31

Baldwin @ Hicksville Long Beach @ Plainview @ Port Washington Westbury @ Baldwin Hicksville

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February Danielle Hippner and sophomore Ashley Hippner, Danielle’s sister. Sophomore Myla McLeod, a soccer-first athlete, is another promising player who Olenik calls “the fastest kid I’ve ever coached, by far,” and who’ll likely substitute for any of his three guards with minimal drop off in play.

“If anything, we’re probably going to be better off defensively with Myla than we would with our three starters in,” he said.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 @ Long Beach 4 Plainview 8 Port Washington

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

GIRLS December 18 Westbury

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 9 12 15 18 29 31

Baldwin Hicksville @ Long Beach Plainview Port Washington @ Westbury @ Baldwin @ Hicksville

4:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

February 2 Long Beach 12:00 p.m.

4 @ Plainview 6:45 p.m.

8 @ Port Washington 6:45 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 20, 2018 — 13

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

EaST Rockaway Ea Rocks need contributions from everyone Vinny Cavalli taking over at center and the two forward spots being interchanged with senior Eddie McCann and juniors Chris he East Rockaway boys’ Perri and Kellenberg transfer Aidan shook off a disastrous two-win season in 2016-17 O’Connor.

Sophomore Franklin Infante and finished 7-14 in head coach will be looked upon by to provide Paul Collins’ first season at the relief off the bench at guard. Colhelm last winter. But the Rocks’ record could have been even better lins was especially impressed with his ability to drive to the basket with three one-point losses and and 3-point shooting. two more by four and five points, respectively. If the team can learn to finish games and avoid another Time is now for Lady Rocks late-season swoon, the program With a depleted roster and could once again contend for a a mostly senior starting lineup conference title.

The Rocks’ win over Wheatley taking the floor this season, the girls’ team could be facing one at the Nassau Coliseum on Jan. final chance to compete for the 20 would prove to be their most recent victory as the team dropped conference championship before a complete overhaul takes place. the final eight games of the season, including defeats to Malverne The Lady Rocks are already off to a in the small schools championship nice start with their season-opening 49-32 victory over Hewlett on game and Greeport in the Long Nov. 28 and are hoping to string Island Class C title match. Collins together some winning streaks as said the flu that went around the team and bad luck were the main the campaign progresses, which was something they had trouble culprits for the slide.

“We were in a lot of games,” doing last season.

East Rockaway won consecu-Collins said. “A lot of games were tive games just twice last season one, two, three possessions. [The and finished 10-12, culminated illnesses] were just really hard to with a 61-41 loss to Millbrook come back from. I thought we in a Class C Southeast Regional were getting better towards the matchup. Five of the nine players end of the season.” on this year’s team are seniors and The Rocks will feature a most of the underclassmen are re-strong backcourt of senior Chris Levins (11.1 ppg) and junior Stefan turners as well, giving coach Karin Leary hope that that continuity Cilluffo (6.1). Levins improved his can result in a stronger team. scoring average by two points a “I really believe that we have game from his sophomore year and Collins is looking for even big- the maturity and the experience to ger things from the varsity veteran be a good team,” said head coach Karin Leary. “We are athletic and this season. we have basketball knowledge, so “This year, I’m looking for with that being said, we can play a lot of leadership from him,” with anybody.”

Collins said. “A lot of talking to The offense will be led by the the younger guys to make sure senior one-two punch of forward they are on the offense and on Brooke DeGiulio (16.9 ppg) and the defense [positionally], to be very vocal out there and to get his shooting guard Juliet McCarthy (13.6), who combined for 31 points at the start of the year and points against Hewlett. Leary is continue it throughout the year.” hoping a third player can step up The Rocks will have a in the scoring department to new-look frontcourt with senior

T

By BRIAN KACHARABA

14 — December 20, 2018

complement those two, with senior Emily Chelius and junior Hunter Vertuccio being the top candidates. “[Brooke and Juliet] are obviously my players to watch,” Leary said.

“Those two will be in double-digits all the time. We do need it from Emily and Hunter as well to step in.

If we get three people consistent in double digits every game, we should be pretty good.”

Another senior, Catherine McClure, is back after missing most of last season with a concussion.

She is also on the volleyball team and Leary is hoping her agility can result in high rebound totals and put-back opportunities offensively.

Senior Kailey Hyland, freshman Riley O’Hagan and junior Skylar Gomes will also be looked upon to contribute as part of the rotation.

Juliet McCarthy

Schedule BoyS December 19 @ C.S. Harbor

7:00 p.m.

January 3 5 9 12 15 17 29 31

Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m. @ Wheatley 12:00 p.m.

Academy Charter 7:00 p.m. @ Carle Place 12:00 p.m. @ Malverne 7:30 p.m.

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

Wheatley 7:00 p.m.

February 2 Academy Charter 5 Carle Place 8 Malverne

11:00 a.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December Chris Levins

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

19 C.S. Harbor

7:00 p.m.

January 3 5 9 12 16 18 19 29 31

@ Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m.

Wheatley 12:00 p.m. @ Friends Academy 7:30 p.m.

Carle Place 12:00 p.m.

Malverne 7:00 p.m. @ C.S. Harbor 7:30 p.m.

Friends Academy 12:00 p.m.

Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m. @ Wheatley 6:15 p.m.

February 5 @ Carle Place 8 @ Malverne

7:15 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

Photos by Sue Greico

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Elmont Unchartered territory for Spartans

By ANDREW MccLURE

t

he Elmont boys are in unfamiliar territory. For the first time in nearly a decade, the Spartans, who had won eight consecutive conference championships, will not have a title to defend. After two consecutive county titles, Elmont (15-7 overall, 10-2 in league play in 2017-18) fell to Garden City in the Class A semifinals.

The Spartans lost over 77 percent of their scoring and won’t have the prototypical go-to player on the roster, but should be right in the mix in Nassau A-II, a league that figures to be one of the county’s best. Non-league games with the likes of White Plains, Chaminade, Amityville, and Brentwood will have the Spartans ready for conference play.

“We have a very different team from last year,” head coach George Holub said. “We don’t have a dominant player, but we have guys who share the ball.

We’re a bit inexperienced, so we’re just looking to get better every day and hope to be playing our best basketball come February and March.”

Junior Jevon Santos, a threeyear varsity player, returns at point guard. Santos, who averaged 7.1 points per game as a sophomore, will be looked upon to score more. He’s a terrific ball handler and plays lockdown defense. Like Santos, junior guard Isiah Barnes does a nice job of finding the open man and plays great defense.

Jordan Lawson is a good rebounder and the team’s top perimeter threat. The junior guard has made tremendous improvement to his game. Senior Qai Kellman, a newcomer to the program, likes to attack the basket and can fill it up from the perimeter.

Sophomore Jonathan Maldonado is a hard-nosed, athletic guard who is solid on both ends of the floor. Look for senior Guy TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

Louis to go hard to the basket and contribute on the offensive end.

In the frontcourt, senior Jaiyetoro Gordon-Younge gives the Spartans grit. Gordon-Younge is tough on defense and hits the boards hard. Marven Senat, a 6-foot-6 junior, is making steady progress. Senat provides Elmont with rebounding and shot-blocking.

most athletic player on the roster. Bailey will look to slash and get to the basket off the pass or dribble. Senior Alexis Stewart is relentless on the boards and an in inside threat. The Lady Spartans got some clutch minutes from 6-foot

Lady Spartans feature new faces

It’s a new day at Elmont. The Lady Spartans, who fell a game short of a state championship in 2017-18, graduated a senior class that had an overall record of 82-7, won a pair of county championships, and posted four consecutive undefeated seasons in league play over the past four seasons.

The names and faces have changed, but Elmont will still play a grueling non-league schedule which includes Massapequa, North Shore, Hauppauge, and Ward Melville before getting started in Nassau A-II, a conference that includes Sewanhaka and Manhasset.

Head coach Tom Magno will be patient. “No doubt it’s going to be a challenge,” Magno said. “We have a lot of new faces, and most of those who are returning will have increased roles. We’ll have to see who steps up. We’re feeling our way around and forming our own identity.”

Gigi Faison (8.5 ppg) is the only returning starter. Faison, a senior guard who has always found as much satisfaction in setting up teammates as she has in scoring, will be one of the team’s go-to players. Faison’s years of playing on the big stage will be a plus for an inexperienced team.

Freshman Rae Sawyer will take over at point guard. Sawyer is a solid ball handler with strong basketball IQ. Senior Aminah Cumberbatch is an unselfish player who will contribute from the perimeter. Cumberbatch will likely be one of the first off the bench.

Senior Nataiya Bailey is the

Jevon Santos junior Brianna Moore in their win over Williamsville South in the state semis. They’re hoping for big things from Moore.

Versatile freshman Keliah Watkins is a big part of the present and future.

Watkins is a pure shooter who can play multiple positions. Senior Shanesha Dyer is a high-energy player who never stops working.

Schedule BoyS December 17 @ New Hyde Park 19 Carey

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 19 25 28 31

@ Kennedy @ Manhasset Sewanhaka Jericho Great Neck North New Hyde Park @ Carey Kennedy Manhasset

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

February 2 @ Sewanhaka 12:00 p.m.

6 @ Jericho 6:30 p.m.

9 @ Great Neck North 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 New Hyde Park 20 @ Carey

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 19 25 29 31

Kennedy 4:30 p.m.

Manhasset 12:00 p.m. @ Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m. @ Jericho 6:30 p.m. @ Great Neck North 6:45 p.m. @ New Hyde Park 12:00 p.m.

Carey 4:30 p.m. @ Kennedy 5:30 p.m. @ Manhasset 6:30 p.m.

February Gigi Faison

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 Sewanhaka 6 Jericho 9 Great Neck North

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

December 20, 2018 — 15

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball preview

Freeport Red Devils excited for fresh start

By ANDREW MccLURE

A

fter picking up just a couple of victories a season ago, there’s nowhere to go but up for the Freeport boys. With three starters returning and help from a strong JV, the Red Devils figure to be a much tougher foe for Conference AA-I opponents in 2018-19.

As usual, there won’t be any easy nights in conference play.

Freeport will have a pair of games with Uniondale, Massapequa, Syosset, Oceanside, Hempstead, and Farmingdale.

“Last year, obviously, was a rough one,” Freeport head coach Larry Steimer said. “The league is always tough, and we were young.

We didn’t lose much, so we’re going from being the team with the least amount of experience to one that has a bunch of guys back who have at least a year of varsity experience. We have athletes. We’ll look to play pressure defense, trap a lot, and get out on the break. We definitely should be improved.”

Junior Terrance Edmond will move from the point to the twoguard position. Edmond can hit the seams and get to the basket, and is always looking to get his teammates involved. Strong basketball IQ and defense are keys to his game.

Junior Taj-he Jones, who ran the show for the JV, will do the same for the big club. Jones is a prototypical point guard who sees the floor well, and can drive and dish. Jones is also a shutdown defender.

Talique Jackson, a threeyear varsity performer, was the team’s leading scorer as a junior averaging 13.5 per game. Jackson is a solid offensive player who can shoot or take it to the hole.

Forward Jayden Bumpass (9.6 ppg as a junior) may be the team’s most athletic player. Bumpass plays above the rim, and is creative off the dribble.

16 — December 20, 2018

Lamont Hough Jr. has gotten stronger and has improved his shooting ability. Senior Darren Fergus, a transfer for St. Mary’s, is a welcome addition to the program.

Fergus is quick and can shoot the three. He will see time at both guard positions.

ranza gives Freeport more size in the paint.

Senior Tee Tee Parker will run the point for the Red Devils. Parker handles the ball well, shoots the three, and

Lady Devils in county title conversation

The Freeport girls got on a tremendous roll in 2017-18. The Red Devils won nine of their last 10 games and ran past Hicksville in the opening round of the playoffs before getting knocked off by a Baldwin team that went on to win its second consecutive NYS championship and the Federation crown. is tenacious on defense. SeBaldwin graduated four of its nior guard Deavion Peterson five starters, so Nassau AA should is a dual threat on offense, no longer be a battle to see who and has a tremendous motor finishes second. With talent and on the defensive end. experience on its side, there’s Senior Leslie Enrique Cruz reason to believe Freeport could be is a great passer and a threat among the teams in the hunt for a from the perimeter. Like the other county title. guards, Enrique Cruz is tough as Head coach Meredith Jones nails on defense. Yulianna Frometa has sent a message to her team. is a fearless, three-sport athlete “We need to be on a mission at who played the point on the JV, every moment,” Jones said. “I last season. think there’s a lot to be excited about. We’re good, but we’re not very deep. We have every reason to play with confidence. The girls want it; they just have to do what it takes to get there.”

Taylor Abraham, a five-year varsity player, continues to get bet-ter. The 6-foot junior is tough to stop in the paint, has the talent to take defenders off the dribble, and can shoot for the field. Abraham put up 14.8 points per game as a sophomore with a pair of 28-point efforts in wins over Farmingdale and Syosset.

Darren Fergus Junior Tyler Hawkins is an athletic rebounder and shot blocker who finds a multitude of ways to contribute. Senior forward Jada Hill is a coach’s dream. The fleet-footed Hill does a little of everything. Sophomore Merlin CarHIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Deavion Peterson

Schedule BoyS December 18 Massapequa 21 Hempstead

6:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 5 12 15 18 26 29 31

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

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 5 Uniondale 8 @ Farmingdale

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 18 @ Massapequa 21 @ Hempstead

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 5 12 15 17 26 29 31

Oceanside @ Syosset Uniondale @ Farmingdale Massapequa Hempstead @ Oceanside Syosset

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 5 @ Uniondale 8 Farmingdale

4:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Hewlett Revamped Bulldogs need contributions from all

H

By TONy BELLISSIMO

ewlett has become a fixture in the Nassau Class A playoffs under head coach Bill Dubin, who has guided the Bulldogs to the semifinals in three of the past five seasons.

In 2017-18, they won 13 games and lost a nail-biter in the first round to Valley Stream South, 69-63. Defense was a sore spot throughout the campaign, Dubin said, and became the focus in the early part of camp. “Our defense looks better now than it did at any point last season,” he said.

“We’re going with a position-less approach. Everyone needs to be able to shoot, rebound, dribble and pass.”

Finishing in the top four of Conference A-III or winning at least seven conference games to get into the playoffs is a goal, Dubin said. Hewlett will tip off against Roosevelt, South Side, Roslyn, Glen Cove, Bethpage, Plainedge and Division twice apiece. “It’s a very tough conference and I have no feel for how it’s going to play out,” he explained.

Senior guard Jason Barry, who recently committed to play baseball at Old Westbury, is being counted on to put the ball in the basket as one of the team’s most experienced players. “He’s a slasher and a shooter who can hit threes and get to the free throw line,” Dubin said.

Junior forward Brett Karkas is “probably our best pure shooter,” the coach noted, and either started or was the first off the bench last season. He had a 19-point effort in a win over Roosevelt. “He’s improved his drive to the basket and knows how to rebound,” Dubin said.

Senior center James Lawes assumes a bigger role and can intimidate in the paint with his shot-blocking ability. Junior Jonny Miller can play center or forward

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

and brings all the intangibles, and Dubin expects junior Darren Spencer to progress as the season unfolds.

In the backcourt with Barry, junior Oren Samuel plays with a lot of energy and senior Drew Steinberg will provide instant offense off the bench. Senior Mac Rochler is a quality defender.

Effort and intensity key for Lady Bulldogs After serving as an assistant at various levels of the program for the past three seasons, Anthony Scro takes over as Lady Bulldogs head coach and is looking for lively practices to carry over into games.

“We’re taking all the positives we can from last season and want to be more competitive,” Scro said.

“There’s going to be some lumps along the way, but the girls are working hard for one another and want to be successful. We need to consistently bring effort and intensity.”

Hewlett, which went 3-9 in conference games last season, plans to play at a faster pace.

Senior Samantha Panzarella’s experience at point guard will help make that happen. “She has really good court awareness and a good handle,” Scro said. “She’s done a lot for the program for the past four years.”

Eighth-grader Riley Weiss is already a lights-out shooting guard and led the team in scoring last season at better than 16 points per game. She closed with 32- and 27-point performances against Sewanhaka and Roosevelt, respectively. “She’ll probably get more defensive attention, but she’s so talented and coachable,” Scro said.

Senior Maria Pia Sapienza is a third-year forward who serves as a tremendous role model, Scro said, and contributes equally at both ends of the floor. “She’s such a positive influence,” he said.

Sophomore guard/ forward Akayla Mack got a taste of the varsity level last season and learned a lot on the fly, Scro said. Her hustle on defense will help the Lady Bulldogs create turnovers and make things happen in transition. Senior Alyssa Rotblut can also play multiple positions and has the potential for a breakout season according to the coach.

Freshman Molly Williams is a returning member of the varsity with a team-first attitude and solid all-around game. Senior Mia Morgan will contribute in the low post, while junior Eileen Pincus brings quickness in her return to the program after competing in track last winter.

Among Hewlett’s non-league opponents are Lawrence, Oceanside and East Rockaway.

Jason Barry

Schedule BoyS December 17 Bethpage

20 @ Roosevelt Matt Guilfoyle

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January

3 5 8 11 16 19 25 29 31

South Side @ Plainedge @ Glen Cove Roslyn @ Division @ Bethpage Roosevelt @ South Side Plainedge

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February 2 Glen Cove 6 @ Roslyn 8 Division

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 @ Bethpage 20 Roosevelt

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January Maria Sapienza

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 5 8 11 16 19 26 29 31

@ South Side Plainedge Glen Cove @ Roslyn Division Bethpage @ Roosevelt South Side @ Plainedge

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February 2 @ Glen Cove 6 Roslyn 9 @ Division

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

December 20, 2018 — 17

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Kennedy Cougars brace for challenging schedule as usual

By TONy BELLISSIMO

T

he Cougars are again faced with the task of navigating a difficult schedule after posting double digits in wins last season to qualify for the Class A playoffs where they fell to Valley Stream North.

“If we’re not in the toughest conference, it’s close to it,” head coach Rory Block said of A-II, which consists of Elmont, Sewanhaka, Jericho, Manhasset, Great Neck North, New Hyde Park and Carey. “There aren’t going to be any easy nights that’s for sure,” he added.

Kennedy returns six players with varsity experience, led by All-Conference forward Marco Travaglione. Entering his fourth season, the agile senior forward plays bigger than his 6-foot-2 frame and will look to improve on his production of 14.3 and 10.4 rebounds per game last season.

He shot 44 percent from the floor, 75 percent from the line, and is the team’s lone returning starter. “Marco’s a very talented kid and we’ll run a lot of things through him,” Block said. “He can shoot, he can rebound and he can handle.”

Senior Brandon Wexler steps into the role of starting center after contributing four points and three rebounds as a reserve. He also shot well from the field, at a clip of nearly 50 percent, and is the Cougars’ tallest player at 6-4. “We need him to score inside and grab rebounds,” Block said.

Senior forwards Jordan Pitti and Zach Rosenfeld are also projected to start. Pitti is a heady player with good defensive instincts and shooting range, while Rosenfeld is as versatile as anyone on the roster.

Junior Alex Rosenberg takes over as the starting point guard after getting a taste of varsity action a season ago. He’s a 6-1 lefty 18 — December 20, 2018

with a quick first step to the rim.

“He’s tall for a point guard and can get into passing lanes,” Block explained.

Also being counted on to lead Kennedy’s playoff hopes are senior Christian Palazzotto, junior Josh Levy, and sophomore Tyler Yablon, a periemter shooter who can provide instant offense and burn zone defenses.

Lady Cougars feature young leadership

everything a coach wants in a leader on the

court.”

Gabrielle Lewin will be the lone senior among the starting five and provides a lot of intangibles. The coach described her as a fast lefty who’ll play tenacious defense and bring an infectious intensity level.

“She gets everyone else going,” Palmieri said.

Lewin’s younger sister, junior Danielle Lewin, has earned the starting point guard position and can make good things happen, Palmieri said. “She’s ready for the challenge,” the coach noted.

“Danielle sees the court well and knows how to run the show. She is a clock manager and can drive and dish.”

Juniors Dylan Manger and Jen Field will both contribute at center.

The Lady Cougars did plenty of celebrating last season, registering 15 wins overall including eight straight to open the campaign.

They knocked off Mineola in a Class A outbracket playoff game by four before losing a hard-fought battle to Cold Spring Harbor by eight.

“We definitely have some shoes to fill, but I think we should finish in the top three of four in the conference and get back to the playoffs,” head coach Mallory Palmieri said. “It’s the quickest team we’ve had in my three years here.”

The roster isn’t large and Kennedy will rely on its top six to lead the way until depth is further developed. Sophomores Cameron Montalbano, who averaged nearly 10 points per game and hit for 14 in the win over Mineola, and Rachel Nossen, who scored 15 in the finale, will serve as captains.

Montalbano is a forward who can knock down threes, get to the foul line, elevate to the rim and crash the boards. “She gave us exactly what we expected as a freshman and she’s more poised and taking on a leadership role,” Palmieri said. “We’re looking for her to Marco Travaglione lead the offense.”

Nossen started some games down the stretch last winter and impressed at shooting guard.

“She’s a terrific lefty shooter and is a good defender always looking to steal the ball,” Palmieri said. “She’s HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Cameron Montalbano

Schedule BoyS December 17 Carey

Matt Guilfoyle 20 @ Jericho

7:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 19 25 28 31

Elmont 6:30 p.m. @ Great Neck North 12:00 p.m.

Manhasset 7:00 p.m. @ New Hyde Park 4:45 p.m.

Sewanhaka 7:00 p.m. @ Carey 12:00 p.m.

Jericho 6:45 p.m. @ Elmont 5:00 p.m.

Great Neck North 6:30 p.m.

February 2 @ Manhasset 6 New Hyde Park 9 @ Sewanhaka

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 @ Carey 20 Jericho

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 19 24 29 31

@ Elmont 4:30 p.m.

Great Neck North 11:30 a.m. @ Manhasset 7:00 p.m.

New Hyde Park 6:30 p.m. @ Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m.

Carey 11:30 a.m. @ Jericho 7:00 p.m.

Elmont 5:30 p.m. @ Great Neck North 7:00 p.m.

February 4 Manhasset 7:15 p.m.

6 @ New Hyde Park 4:45 p.m.

9 Sewanhaka 11:30 a.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

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December 20, 2018 — 21

2018- 19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Lawrence Playoffs a goal for Golden Tornadoes

By TONy BELLISSIMO

L

awrence never recovered from a difficult start in 2017-18, finishing with four victories and out of the playoffs for a second consecutive season.

“Last season we had a defensive mindset and tried to stay close in games,” head coach Lou Robinson said. “I still want our guys to guard opponents the way we don’t want to be guarded, but we’re also looking to push the ball up the floor. We’re as athletic as we’ve been in a while.”

Senior guard Keaton Goldsby has averaged better than 15 points per game over the past two seasons and earned All-County honors last winter. “He’s grown a bunch and worked on his form,” Robinson said. “He’s a legit shooter and his first inclination is to score. He’s also a tough defender who can get into someone’s face.”

In the frontcourt, the Golden Tornadoes feature a pair of 6-foot4 seniors. Norell Folawiyo averaged six points and eight rebounds last season, while Joey D’Vir made progress in a backup role. Folawiyo has been the biggest surprise in camp, Robinson noted. “Norell is focused and I challenged him to be a captain and leader,” the coach said. “He’s capable of a doubledouble any given night.”

D’Vir never played organized hoops until last winter and learned quickly. A goalkeeper, he helped the Lawrence soccer team make a run to the county semifinals. “He does a lot of the dirty work and is a strong rebounder,” Robinson said. Senior Nevaeh Baxter, a newcomer, could earn significant minutes at forward.

Junior Nathaniel Manning will run the point and has the best vertical jump on the team.

The coach believes he’s more than ready for the speed of varsity and will contribute at both ends after an impressive JV campaign. “He gets others involved in the offense 22 — December 20, 2018

and is a good shooter,” Robinson explained.

Sophomore guard Mikell Henry was the JV leading scorer and slashes well to the basket.

More offense will come off the bench in the form of seniors Tyler and Harrison Kim. Lawrence is part of a solid Conference A-IV that includes Floral Park, Lynbrook, Valley Stream South, Valley Stream North, North Shore and Wantagh. “We want to challenge for a playoff spot,” Robinson said.

Offense a key for Lady Tornadoes

For the past two seasons, a daunting conference schedule and offensive struggles have made things tough on the Lady Golden Tornadoes and resulted in only three victories combined.

However, with four returning starters and an uptick in scoring talent, head coach George Klein is expecting some tighter games.

“We’re definitely well ahead of last year’s pace,” he said. “I feel we will be more competitive and a bit stronger offensively with the added experience. Last season was the first some of the girls played organized basketball.”

Senior forward Marilyn Mundell brings a solid all-around game to the floor and is looking to build on the 12 points per game she contributed a season ago. “She’s a nice outside shooter who can play inside or outside,” Klein said.

Senior shooting guard Brooke Kirchner is a captain and leader on and off the court, the coach said.

“She’s really strong defensively and has a high basketball IQ,” Klein said. “She pretty much runs the show and is hardly going to come off the floor.”

Senior Erica Pagano is a strong defender and athletic power forward who can be a pres-ence on the glass and chip in a few put-back baskets. “She’s a grinder and does a lot of things well,” Klein said.

At center, senior Lisa Deryce can get the job done with her back to the basket or facing it, the coach said. “She has nice shooting range,” Klein said.

The new point guard is also new to the varsity scene but brings a ton of upside. Eighthgrader Andie Adams makes the move from middle school and will try to make an immediate contribution at both ends of the floor, particularly on offense.

Senior Catherine Melgar is a sound backcourt defender.

“Defensively, I think we’re pretty solid,” Klein said. “We need to push and protect the ball and score more in transition.”

The Lady Golden Tornadoes will prepare for another bumpy road in A-IV with nonleague games against Hewlett, Carey and West Hempstead.

Last year they managed a split with Valley Stream North to get into the win column. Deryce had 10 points and Mundell chipped in nine in the 38-33 win.

Keaton Goldsby

Schedule

BOyS Matt Guilfoyle December

17 @ North Shore 20 Wantagh

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 8 11 16 19 25 29

@ Floral Park V.S. North @ V.S. South Lynbrook North Shore @ Wantagh Floral Park

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 @ V.S. North 6 V.S. South 9 @ Lynbrook

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 North Shore 20 @ Wantagh

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 8 11 16 19 25 29

Floral Park @ V.S. North V.S. South @ Lynbrook @ North Shore Wantagh @ Floral Park

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

February Marilyn Mundell

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 V.S. North 6 @ V.S. South 9 Lynbrook

12:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2018-19 HERALD high School Basketball Preview

Long Beach Marines aim to end playoff drought

W

By TONy BELLISSIMO

ins in their first two nonleague games, another year of experience and a deeper bench has the Marines thinking playoffs after falling short of the postseason in three straight campaigns.

“We’re improved in every area,” head coach Scott Martin said. “We returned six and added a few transfers. I’m sure we’ll have ups and downs, but we have enough talent to get to the playoffs.”

Long Beach finished 4-8 in conference games last winter and won six overall, tripling its success from the previous season. It’ll tangle with Baldwin, Westbury, East Meadow, Plainview, Port Washington and Hicksville in Conference AA-II. The top four are guaranteed a playoff trip.

Senior Lashawn Hankins enters his third season as the Marines’ starting point guard. He averaged 12 points and 3 assists per game on the way to earning All-County honors in 2017-18.

“He’ll play the most minutes and have the ball in his hands the most,” Martin said. “He can drive and hit threes, and he’s a smart defender.”

Senior forward Gerard Burns has all the tools to improve from an All-Conference season where he averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds. He’s an ultra-athletic lefty who’s explosive to the basket and a determined rebounder. Martin said he’s looking for Burns (21 points, 12 rebounds in a win over Oceanside) to convert more layup and free throw opportunities.

Junior center Evan Michaels (6 ppg, 7 rpg) can jump out of the gym and has a reliable set of hands. Juniors Aiden White and Brian Corrigan will also contribute in the frontcourt.

Senior Sean Steele is a defensive-minded guard who brings all the intangibles. Junior Alex Bauer

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

chipped in four points on average off the bench last season and can hit from the perimeter, as he proved in the early going. He had 17 points in the opener against Bethpage.

After playing JV last season at their respective schools, junior transfers Jayden Barwicki (Holy Trinity) and Tristan DeCicco (Chaminade) bolster Long Beach’s backcourt depth. Barwicki had nine points against Oceanside.

Lady Marines hope to make strides

With boosts in the experience, chemistry, focus, and confidence departments, the Lady Marines are looking for all of the above to translate into more competitive games and success on the scoreboard after a difficult one-win 2017-18 campaign.

“We’re leaps and bounds ahead of where we were at this time a year ago,” head coach Kristin Ciccone said. “We’ve been looking forward to a fresh start.

Last season was a lot of hard work and growing pains. I like the direction we’re headed.”

Ciccone built a balanced non-league schedule that included matchups against talented Oceanside, John Adams and Holy Trinity to help the Lady Marines prepare for the Conference AA-II grind. “We implemented a new zone press and the girls are learning quickly,” she said. “We want to be able to score in transition.

Generating enough offense is my main concern, but the potential to make playoffs is there for us.”

Senior captains Adrianna Zieba-Rosa and Fiona Rafferty enter their fourth and third seasons on the varsity, respectively.

Zieba-Rosa, a forward with starting experience, had 10 points in the opener against Oceanside and will need to contribute offense and rebounds every night, the coach said.

Rafferty is the team’s best defender who can play forward or guard, dribble-drive and get up

and down the floor. “We need them to be leaders on the court,” Ciccone said.

Junior Delilah Plunkett is an agile center who can score in transition and rebounds well. Junior Kaia Cheung developed nicely over two seasons at the JV level and is a defensive-oriented forward who’ll scrap for rebounds, blocks shots and chip in a few points.

In the backcourt, junior Sage Bernstein is as aggressive as anyone on the roster, Ciccone said, and brings up everyone else’s intensity level along with sophomore Lainie Kassap, can be a top scorer and also an asset on the defensive side. Sophomore Gia Simbari is one of the team’s best shooters, while sophomore Jasmine Soriano can run the point off the bench and brings a quick first step and tenacity on defense.

Adrianna Zieba-Rosa

Schedule BoyS December 21 @ Plainview

7:00 p.m.

January 3 5 9 12 15 26 29 31

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

4:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

February Lashawn Hankins The Lady Marines open at home against Plainview and in addition to the Lady Hawks will also face Port Washington, East Meadow, Westbury, Hicksville and powerhouse Baldwin, the defending NYS Federation champs, twice apiece.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 East Meadow 5 @ Baldwin 8 Hicksville

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

GIRLS December 21 Plainview

4:45 p.m.

January 3 5 9 15 17 26 29 31

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

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

February 2 @ East Meadow 5 Baldwin 7 @ Hicksville

12:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Photos by Keith O’Reilly

December 20, 2018 — 23

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

2018-19

GIRLS HEAD

COACHES Tom CaTapano - Baldwin

pETE maGnUSon - Calhoun

DanIELLE DonoHUE - Carey

SHaUn FEan - Clarke

pETE oLEnIK - East Meadow

KaRIn LEaRY - East Rockaway

Tom maGno - Elmont

mEREDITH JonES - Freeport

anTHonY SCRo - Hewlett

maLLoRY paLmIERI - Kennedy

GEoRGE KLEIn - Lawrence

KRISTIn CICConE - Long Beach

STEvE LoCICERo - Lynbrook

DavE RaDTKE - MacArthur

amanDa maSSon - Malverne

JIm mULvEY - Mepham

JaRED SToLER - Oceanside

BoB vaCHRIS - Seaford

aLEx SoUpIoS - Sewanhaka

Dan FERRICK - South Side

maLYSSa THoRnGREn - VS Central

GEoRGE KaRaHaLIoS - V.S. North

DaRYL JoHnSon - V.S. South

STan BUJaCICH - Wantagh

CHRIS van KovICS - West Hempstead

24 — December 20, 2018

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

2018-19

BOYS HEAD

COACHES Darius Burton - Baldwin

Jay KreutzBerger - Calhoun

steVe saVino - Carey

PauL CoLLins - 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

Joe suPPLe - Oceanside

raLPH rossetti - Seaford

Jason aLLen - Sewanhaka

Jerry D’angeLo - South Side

HayWarD aLFreD - V.S. Central

Dan aCHatz - V.S. North

MiKe o’Brien - V.S. South

Joe HarCLeroDe - Wantagh

eD CosgroVe - West Hempstead

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Joe HasBrouCK - Clarke

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

BoBBy KoPP - East Meadow

December 20, 2018 — 25

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

LynBrook rook Conference title in Owls’ sight

By TONy BELLISSIMO

I

t’s been a while — 10 years, to be exact — since the Owls have earned a conference title on the hardwood. And it was 20 years before that.

However, with nine seniors in the fold and consecutive years of tasting playoff victories, putting a banner on the gym wall and going deeper in the postseason are legitimate goals for this season’s squad.

“We know how tough it’s going to be because we’re not sneaking up on anyone,” head coach Jamie Adams said. “We’re going to get everyone’s best punch. The kids know they’ll be in a lot of high-pressure situations. Still, with the leadership and chemistry we’ve got, it’s our mission to win the conference.”

Under Nassau’s new alignment, Lynbrook is part of a competitive Conference A-IV along with Floral Park, Lawrence, North Shore, Valley Stream North, Valley Stream South and Wantagh.

Serving as the catalyst for the Owls is senior point guard Rylan Blondo, who according to Adams is 100 percent recovered from a broken kneecap that cost him the last four regular-season games and both playoff contests last winter.

Blondo averaged 17 points and earned All-County honors. “He’s had a tremendous offseason and played in several showcases and all-star games,” Adams said. “He’s an aggressive scorer and creates shots for his teammates.”

Senior John Donaldson can play guard or forward and is no stranger to producing big numbers. He averaged 12 points per game on the way to being an All-Conference selection. “He’s a relentless worker who can slash to the basket and shoot the three,” Adams said. “He’s also an underrated offensive rebounder.” Senior guard Dylan Herlihy is a tenacious 26 — December 20, 2018

defender who does a lot of the dirty work.

In the frontcourt, the Owls are counting on senior center James Montgomery to have an impact in the paint. He’s 6-foot-5 and can handle the ball like a small for forward. Senior lefty Brandon Pekale is pushing for a starting spot and brings leadership qualities. Senior Sean Barrett is a scrappy forward, and sophomore Thomas DeMenezes plays with an edge.

contributed big minutes down the stretch. She’s a shooting guard who can create turnovers and ignite the Lady Owls in transition.

At the point, senior Madison BarBar roso has a reliable handle and passing accuracy.

Sophomore Camila Bahri

Deep rotation to lead Lady Owls

The Lady Owls will try to make it five straight playoff appearances under head coach Steve LoCicero, who for a second straight season has to account for the loss of a 1,000-point scorer.

Kerrin Montgomery, a 2017 graduate, and Sophia LoCicero, who departed in June, both cracked the career plateau and were capable of pouring in 20 points or more on any given night.

This season, Lynbrook is without a prolific scorer but features a deep group of quality athletes who can turn defense into offense.

“We’re going to play a trapping defense and make wholesale lineup changes,” said LoCicero, who last season guided the Lady Owls to 11 victories and a spot in the Class A playoffs where they lost a tight game to South Side. “All these girls are excellent athletes,” he added. “We’ll look to get baskets in transition. We don’t want to play a settled offense.”

Lynbrook has a familiar set of conference rivals, including perennial power North Shore, Wantagh and Floral Park.

Senior Kerin Bartels is a quality shooter and rebounder who brings a high basketball IQ and leadership to the court. As a forward she can stretch a defense, and LoCicero is looking for her to score in double figures.

Senior Katie Bammann is a soccer standout who last season

John Donaldson

Schedule BOyS December

Matt GuilfOyle O Oyle 17 @ V.S. North 20 @ V.S. South

7:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

January

Kerin Bartels

5 8 11 16 19 25 31

@ North Shore Wantagh Floral Park @ Lawrence V.S. North V.S. South North Shore

10:00 a.m.

7:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

11:00 a.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

February can play almost anywhere but will primarily see time in the backcourt along with junior Lena Weinkauf, a lockdown defender.

At forward, junior Sara Bahri was Honorable Mention All-County and can be a matchup problem for opponents. Junior Kailey Stalter has some varsity starts under her belt, while junior Kate Foley comes off a stellar volleyball season and can elevate and grab rebounds.

Up from JV, junior Cam Hetrick and sophomores Cristina Franco, Kayla Schwizer, Leanna Sul-livan and Jenna Hendrickson are all in the mix to contribute.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 @ Wantagh 6 @ Floral Park 9 Lawrence

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 18 @ V.S. North 21 @ V.S. South

6:15 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

January 5 8 11 16 19 25 31

North Shore @ Wantagh @ Floral Park Lawrence @ V.S. North @ V.S. South @ North Shore

10:00 a.m.

6:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 Wantagh 6 Floral Park 9 @ Lawrence

10:00 a.m.

6:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Photos by Keith O’Reilly

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 20, 2018 — 27

2018-19 HERALD high School Basketball Preview

MacArthur M Arthur Clean slate for rebuilt Generals MacArthur will compete for a second straight year in Class A after dropping down from AA following the 2016-17 season acArthur starts anew because of a drop in enrollment. Its this winter with a fresh league in Conference A-1 features starting lineup looking to Calhoun, Mepham, Herricks, Valley break through in Conference A-III. Stream Central, Garden City and The Generals graduated all Great Neck South. five starters from last year’s 7-13 “The playoffs is definitely team that lost five games by a goal and is something we can single digits. While MacArthur will achieve,” Rubin said. “It will be starting over with new floor definitely be a challenge.” leaders, head coach Eric Rubin is excited about the athleticism that Seniors set tone for will be on the court this winter.

Lady Generals “We lack varsity experience, MacArthur enters the new but we definitely have guys who season with extra fuel for its can score,” Rubin said. “They just up-tempo offense thanks to senior have to buy in defensively and if leadership. they do we can have some suc Senior tri-captains Jessica cess.”

Tolvey, Marissa D’Angelo and Senior guard Trent Knapp Dorianna Cardon spearheaded returns after earning varsity experi- efforts to have the Lady Generals ence off the bench last year. The to take part in a summer league 6-foot Knapp is capable of playing with Carle Place, Manhasset and on the perimeter or in the paint if Syosset. The extra preparation will needed. be crucial for a MacArthur team “He’s an athletic, strong kid that graduated seven seniors off who can play multiple positions,” a 10-10 season that ended with Rubin said of Knapp. “He’s multiNassau Class A outbracket playoff dimensional.” loss to Locust Valley.

Junior power forward Hugh “They are very committed,” Kelleher is also back and will said fifth-year head coach Dave provide the Generals a scoring Radtke of his senior trio. “They threat close to the basket. The 6-2 have bought into everything.”

Kelleher is coming off a strong Tulvey, D’Angelo and Cardon fall on the football field where he will key a fast-paced MacArthur scored 10 touchdowns at running offense that Radtke implemented back. when he took over as head coach “He is just an amazing athin the 2014-15 season that lete,” Rubin said of Kelleher. “He is involves subbing players every terrific rebounder and defender.” couple minutes to keep fresh Rubin is looking for an legs on the court. Radtke said expanded role this season from the summer league games along senior shooting guard Christian with extra workouts organized by DeVecchis, who recorded two five- the captains will aid conditioning point games last year on a senior- this winter as the Generals look laden team. His younger brother PJ to push the ball offensively and DeVecchis was starting point guard implement a full court pressure on junior varsity last year and is in defense. line to lead the MacArthur back “We run and gun and press court as a junior. Junior Max and trap,” Radtke said. “It allows Chmiel, who was leading scorer us to wear teams down at the end on JV last year, is another guard of games.” option for the Generals while Rob The senior captains bring Lobosco is an inside threat at experience into a young team forward. comprised of mostly new faces.

By ANDREW COEN

M

28 — December 20, 2018

Sophomores Zoey Sophomores Zoey Quinn and Alyssa and Alyssa Accordino, who showed Accordino, who showed progression as freshmen on progression as freshmen on varsity, are the only other two varsity, are the only other two returning varsity players. returning varsity players.

“They made a lot of strides “They made a lot of strides year,” said Radtke of Quinn last year,” said Radtke of Quinn Accordino. “They are very and Accordino. “They are very confident.”

The five returning MacArMacAr The five returning MacArplayers will join a sleuth of thur players will join a sleuth of newcomers from junior varsity. newcomers from junior varsity.

Radtke said who will emerge Radtke said who will emerge among the varsity newcomers is among the varsity newcomers is unknown entering the season, unknown entering the season, everyone on the roster will but everyone on the roster will play a role. role.

“Everyone is playing,” “Everyone is playing,” Radtke said. “It’s going to be Radtke said. “It’s going to be like hockey and shifting them hockey and shifting them in and out every couple out every couple minutes.”

MacArthur’s quest MacArthur’s quest for another playoff berth another playoff berth features stiff competition features stiff competition in Conference A-I including Conference A-I including Calhoun, Mepham, Herricks, Calhoun, Mepham, Herricks, Valley Stream Central, Garden Stream Central, Garden City and Great Neck South. The and Great Neck South. The Lady Generals can march to Generals can march to the playoffs by placing in the playoffs by placing in the leagues’ top three or finishing leagues’ top three or finishing with at least a .500 record. at least a .500 record.

Doriana Cardon

Schedule

Matt Guilfoyle

BoyS December

17 @ Herricks

7:00 p.m.

January 3 5 8 12 15 18 29 31

Mepham 6:15 p.m. @ Calhoun 12:00 p.m.

Garden City 6:45 p.m. @ Great Neck South 12:00 p.m. @ V.S. Central 6:30 p.m.

Herricks 6:30 p.m. @ Mepham 6:30 p.m.

Calhoun 6:15 p.m.

February 4 @ Garden City 6:45 p.m.

6 Great Neck South 6:15 p.m.

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

GIRLS December 17 Herricks

6:30 p.m.

January Trent Knapp

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 5 8 11 16 19 29 31

@ Mepham 6:30 p.m.

Calhoun 12:00 p.m. @ Garden City 6:30 p.m.

Great Neck South 6:30 p.m.

V.S. Central 6:30 p.m. @ Herricks 10:00 a.m.

Mepham 6:30 p.m. @ Calhoun 6:30 p.m.

February 2 Garden City 12:00 p.m.

6 @ Great Neck South 6:30 p.m.

9 @ V.S. Central 12:00 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Malverne Mules poised for another title run

By BRIAN KACHARABA

I

n just two years, the Malverne boys’ basketball team went from being basement dwellers to conference champions. But can the Mules maintain that success after losing their two top scorers from last season?

Last season’s historic run was the culmination of a rebuild that started with a 2-16 record in 2015-16 and continued with an eight-win showing the following campaign. Malverne concluded last year’s regular-season with eight wins in nine games and went on to win the Nassau B championship over Oyster Bay and the small schools title a week later against East Rockaway.

But graduating seniors Michael James (13.9 ppg.) and Makhia Effs (11.3) are no longer with the team, so it’s now up to a thriving sophomore point guard and incoming seniors such as Donovan Ishmael (7.1), one of the stronger rebounders on the team, D.J. Gaston (2.7) and Jovani Duran (5.5) to pick up the slack.

“What we’re hoping for is now the juniors from last year that are now seniors will step up,” assistant coach Walter Aksionoff said.

“In the [Long Island championship game], what really hurt us was the inside game. If they would have contributed just five or six points, the game would have been turned around.”

The team is hoping that Michael Warren (9.1 ppg) can grow even further after a solid freshman season, which included two 14-point efforts in games against Cold Spring Harbor and East Rockaway. Aksionoff told Warren last season that he can be a 12-point scorer and get to the foul line often with being a lefty and possessing the speed to drive to the basket.

“We increased that to maybe 20 this year,” Aksionoff said laughing.

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Malverne should still be a top contender in Conference B along with rival Oyster Bay and Cold Spring Harbor and Aksionoff foresees a possibly rematch with favorite Center Moriches for the Long Island title.

“Our philosophy from day one is we want to go back and we may end up facing Center Moriches again,” Aksionoff said. “It’s not an easy task, but we know what we have to do.”

Educational approach for Lady Mules

A new era will begin for the girls’ team this season with former assistant coach Amanda Masson taking over for Lorenzo Jenkins.

Masson will have her work cut out for her, though, as she inherits a team that went 3-17 last season (the Lady Mules won their first two games before dropping the next 16) and lost their top two scorers to graduation. Masson is bringing a unique approach to the team, incorporating the fundamentals through practice, informational binders and film study.

Translation: this year’s team will be well-prepared. “It has everything laid out in front of them, so if they have an issue, they can always go back to their binders for guidance,” she explained. “Their brain is always processing about basketball.”

Masson wants to take advan-tage of the team’s athletic players by instilling a more up-tempo style of play where all five players on the court are involved.

“We just want to show them it’s a new system,” she said. “I want them to keep running, so I want to do a lot of press defenses, [more] transitioning and less dribbling and more passing and cutting so that everyone is moving instead of standing still.”

With Alexis Lake and Diana Jean gone, the Lady Mules’ offense will now revolve around shooting guard Tyela Davidson (7.5 ppg),

small forward Nia Moore (4.4) and freshman point guard Princia Ulysse (3.8), who is entering her third year on the varsity.

“She’s building more confidence,” Masson said of Ulysse. “At first, she was more passive.

But now she’s attacking the basket [and] getting offensive rebounds. She’s getting more tough and vocal.”

Junior Destiny Mitchell and sophomore Nalyhannah Metellus will round out the starting five up front. Mitchell is one of the stronger rebounders on the team, while Metellus is an above-average ball handlers who can attack the basket.

Tamaira Smalls (6.4 ppg) is expected to contribute as the backup point guard and senior Quateka Dawson returns to the team after last playing as a freshman. Sophomore forward Regina Halstead is a transfer from Virginia.

Mike James

Schedule BoyS December 18 Oyster Bay 21 Wheatley

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 2 5 11 15 18 26 29 31

Academy Charter 7:00 p.m.

Carle Place 12:00 p.m. @ C.S. Harbor 7:00 p.m.

East Rockaway 7:30 p.m. @ Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m. @ Wheatley 2:00 p.m.

Academy Charter 7:00 p.m. @ Carle Place 7:30 p.m.

February 5 C.S. Harbor 8 @ East Rockaway

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 18 @ Oyster Bay 21 @ Wheatley

7:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

January Nia Moore

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3 5 12 16 18 26 29 31

Friends Academy 6:30 p.m. @ Carle Place 12:00 p.m. @ C.S. Harbor 12:00 p.m. @ East Rockaway 7:00 p.m.

Oyster Bay 7:00 p.m.

Wheatley 12:00 p.m. @ Friends Academy 6:45 p.m.

Carle Place 6:30 p.m.

February 5 @ C.S. Harbor 8 East Rockaway

7:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

Photos by Sue Grieco

December 20, 2018 — 29

2018-19 HERALD high School Basketball preview

MephaM Mepha Pirates seek postseason return postseason, but will just need to learn to play together as the season progresses. “It’s going to be a very balanced conference. a number of slim defeats good league from top to bottom,” plagued Mepham last he said. “Depth should be very season as it finished with a good for us, and we should be able sub-.500 record, snapping a twoto get out and run and pressure year playoff streak in Conference the ball. So far it’s just a very good A-1. The Pirates will look to bounce group.” back to the playoffs and will do it with a roster of mostly seasoned players bolstered by a few promis- Roster turnover for Lady Pirates ing new additions.

Among the senior crop is After losing three of their top forward Zach D’Ambra and guards players to graduation, and another Corey Lichtman, Eli Koukoulis and to an injury this preseason, the Kieran Gilroy, as well as forward Mepham girls will turn to a new Joe Thomas, who is new to the group to carry the load. team. Returning juniors include Among the graduates include guard Jack Fontanetta and forward perennial All-County star Maryann Greg Paul.

Bagonis, Kelsey Vandewater and “We have a good sense of Kara Castaldo. In late November, chemistry and experience,” head the team suffered a major blow coach Pat Fallon said. “A good mix when its starting point guard, of post players and guys on the junior Lorrie Dellacroce, suffered a perimeter.” torn ACL during a scrimmage.

Reinforcements who were “It’s definitely a rebuilding promoted from JV include five year,” head coach Jim Mulvey said. juniors – guards Jake Crimeni “These kids were with me a long and Quis Aini, and forwards Dan time. We had a real good run with Hickey, Chris Smith and Nick Rheel. them. With these [newer] kids, While Fallon spoke highly we’re working hard.” of depth and balance, it will be a Mepham made it to the challenge blending the experisecond round of the playoffs last enced players with the newcomyear, but will have a very different ers, he said. That includes two look as they begin A-1 conference promising youngsters in freshman play on Dec. 17. Still, Mulvey said, Richie Vaquero and sophomore a playoff berth is far from out of Mekhi Beckett, who played at St. the question, especially since the Anthony’s last season, both of team is ahead of the curve in whom will be in competition for developing chemistry – of their 11 playing time. active players, seven played on the With an abundance of perim- soccer team together. eter players, Fallon said he expects “We’re still going to go after to push the offense. “We’ll be it,” the coach said. “We always playing up-tempo,” he said, “and want to win a conference and be looking to be a solid man-to-man a playoff team. But it’s definitely defensive team.” about growth with this team and I The Pirates’ first home confer- think we will definitely progress as ence game will be against Herricks this season goes.” on Dec. 20. They’ll face crosstown Among their returning playrival Calhoun twice, at home on ers are four-year varsity players Jan. 8 and on the road on Dec. 2 Maxine Bresnaider, an inside force before closing out conference play in the post, and Caorline Keane, on Feb. 9 at Great Neck South. a weapon on the perimeter, who Fallon said the team certainly will both be a big part of their has the talent to get back to the offense, said Mulvey. Sophomore

a

By DAVID WEINGRAD

30 — December 20, 2018

Julia Rawlinson showed spurts of brilliance during her freshman year, including a monster 18-point, 12-rebound effort against MacArthur last December at the Nassau Coliseum.

Other impact players include junior Julia Cardace, a good onthe-ball defender; senior Nicole Dubon, a strong inside presence; junior Alexa Ferrara, an outside threat; Ali Heller, an athletic guard, and junior Brianna Morse, who is new to the program but who has already made great strides in the preseason, her coach said.

Stepping in to Dellacroce’s place at the point will be junior Jillian Mayer, an intelligent, fundamentally sound player who Mulvey said will do anything for the team.

To be successful, the team will have to “come focused every day,” Mulvey said. “They do work.

Any given night somebody can do something.”

Maxine Bresnaider

Schedule

BoyS December 17 @ V.S. Central 20 Herricks

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 3 8 11 16 19 25 29

@ MacArthur 6:15 p.m.

Calhoun 6:30 p.m. @ Garden City 6:30 p.m.

Great Neck South 6:30 p.m.

V.S. Central 12:00 p.m. @ Herricks 7:00 p.m.

MacArthur 6:30 p.m.

February 2 @ Calhoun 12:00 p.m.

6 Garden City 6:45 p.m.

9 @ Great Neck South 12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 V.S. Central 20 @ Herricks

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

January 3 8 11 16 19 25 29

MacArthur 6:30 p.m. @ Calhoun 6:30 p.m.

Garden City 6:30 p.m. @ Great Neck South 6:30 p.m. @ V.S. Central 12:00 p.m.

Herricks 6:30 p.m. @ MacArthur 6:30 p.m.

February Mekhi Beckett

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 Calhoun 12:00 p.m.

6 @ Garden City 6:30 p.m.

9 Great Neck South 12:00 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

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December 20, 2018 — 31

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Ocean OceanSIde Sailors revamp after solid 13-win campaign

I

By GARRETT URIBE

n his first year at the helm, Sailors head coach Joe Supple last season succeeded in his rescue mission.

Coming off a 1-11 league showing, Oceanside went 7-5 last year in Conference AA-I, 13-8 overall, while making the quarterfinals of the Nassau Class AA playoffs.

With only one starter returning, follow-up success isn’t taken for granted, Supple said. But the second-year head coach – whose team resumes play in AA-I – believes Oceanside has reconstituted itself nicely, sporting a new look to suit a shift in personnel.

“We don’t have a true low post guy anymore,” Supple said.

“So we’ll be more up-tempo, switching positions, covering more of the floor. We’ll force teams to adjust.”

Back to guide the Sailors’ offense is All-Conference forward Brian Pod. “Brian’s our leader on and off the court,” Supple said of the 6-foot-1 senior, who scored nine points a game and into double figures seven times. “He motivates his teammates.”

Oceanside’s number two threat, 5-11 junior Ralph Amitrano, starts at the two position. “Ralph’s shooting and ball-handling should create matchup problems,” Supple said. “He’s extremely aggressive attacking the rim.”

Junior guards James Capozzi (5-9) and Dimitri Garrett (6-1, swingman) give Oceanside good backcourt options, along with sophomore guard Matt McCabe (6-2). “James Capozzi’s a true point guard who gets his teammates involved,” Supple said.

“Dimitri’s our do-it-all guy; he can score in the post and shoot the three. Matt McCabe’s got great range and can go to the rim with both hands.”

Oceanside’s power in the 32 — December 20, 2018

paint comes mainly from big forwards Angel Estevez (6-3) and Cesario Cesar (6-5), both juniors, with 6-1 senior Jack Forbes also much in the mix. “Angel should be one of our leading shot-blockers,” Supple said. “Cesario’s good on the glass and can finish with both hands. Jack’s got a good midrange game and will score in the post.”

Supple concluded: “Our guys aren’t starting from zero. They learned the system last year and won a playoff game. We expect to get back to that point, if not further.”

Lady Sailors off strong finish

The Lady Sailors flipped an early skid into a 6-3 stretch run last winter, wrapping the regular season with a pair of league wins – including an upset of then top-seeded Massapequa – before a first-round exit from the Class AA playoffs.

Enduring a depleted bench to finish 5-7 in AA-1, 10-10 overall, Oceanside owed its second-half surge, head coach Jared Stoler explained, to a late attainment of balance – its defense rising to the level of its offense. Keeping this equilibrium intact has been a top focus in camp, Stoler said.

“Scoring isn’t an issue for us,” said Stoler, whose team returns to AA-I. “It’s just a matter of stopping people. We struggled finding our identity, but figured it out toward the end. That’s what we need to maintain.”

Conference scoring leader Jamie Behar (20.9 ppg) comes off back-to-back All-County efforts to lead the Lady Sailors in her fifth year starting at guard. “I anticipate more of the same from Jamie,” Stoler said of the 6-2 junior, who notched her 1,000th point last February. “She’s a gamechanger.”

Complementing Behar in Oceanside’s frontcourt is All-County junior Gina Contorno –

AA-I’s fourth-leading scorer (15.4) – a perennial force in her own right who will start for a third year at forward. “Gina’s aggressiveness is unparalleled,” Stoler said. “She’s one of the most tenacious players in the county.”

Second-year starter Katie Morgan (5.5 ppg) returns at guard for Oceanside, with fellow seniors Victoria Ward and Brian Pod

Samantha Greco poised to crack the starting lineup at forward and center respectively. “Katie’s got great range and quickness,” Stoler said. “She’ll have the ball in her hands this year. Victoria’s a strong defender who can do it all; we expect her to play every position.

Samantha’s someone we expect to fight for every rebound and work hard in the paint.”

Added Stoler: “We have the talent to do a little bit of everything. We can score with the best of them. As long as we keep playing defense like we did at the

end last year, we’ll be in good shape.”

Schedule Matt Guilfoyle BoyS

December

21 @ Syosset

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 9 11 15 25 29 31

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

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 Farmingdale 5 @ Massapequa 8 Hempstead

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 21 Syosset

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 9 12 15 26 29 31

@ Freeport @ Uniondale Farmingdale Massapequa Hempstead Syosset Freeport Uniondale

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

8:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 @ Farmingdale 5 Massapequa 8 @ Hempstead

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Gina Contorno

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Photos by Jeff Wilson

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December 20, 2018 — 33

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

Seaford Backcourt steering Vikings’ ship Seaford will be competing in League A-V this season with Clarke, Mineola, West Hempstead, Locust Valley and ongtime Seaford head coach Island Trees. Rossetti hopes his Ralph Rossetti is tasked team can show steady improveonce again with assembling ment throughout the season and a largely new team in a rebuild be in position for important games mode. down the stretch.

The 37th-year Seaford head “The league is very tough, coach led the Vikings to a Rossetti said. “We just have to see 7-11 mark in 2017-18 despite how everyone blends.” graduating all returning starters and contributing bench players Lady Vikings from the previous year. Graduarevamp after 19 wins tion hit Seaford hard again and Rossetti is expecting growing pains Seaford will be challenged in its quest for a return playoff competing in a new competitive conference with some of the best appearance with nearly all of last year’s scoring graduated. teams in Nassau County.

“We’re in a rebuilding stage,” The Lady Vikings return just 92 points from last year’s 19-2 said Rossetti, who has captured team that fell to Cold Spring 357 career wins in his 36 years behind the Seaford bench. “We are Harbor in the Class A quarterfinals.

The inexperience on the floor is very guard oriented.” compounded by Seaford being Senior Ryan Butler is Seaford’s top backcourt returner after grouped in a grueling Conference earning an All Conference season IV that features county title contenders Island Trees and Mineola. in which he averaged in double figures and developed into a three- “Not only are we very young point shooting threat. The athletic and replacing everyone, but we are in a conference with two of Butler, who scored 33 points in a 72-62 win against East Rockaway the top teams in the county,” last year, is also coming off a stellar head coach Bob Vachris said. “In our league it is going to be very fall season on the football field where he scored five touchdowns difficult to make the playoffs.”

Junior 6-foot center Jamie as a running back and receiver.

Returning senior Logan Mas- McSorley accounts for all the Seaters also progressed throughout his ford’s returning scoring. She the first season starting on varsity and became a force in the paint off the bench last year and is the team’s scored 21 points in a 53-50 win top rebounder. against Carle Place during the Vikings’ final game. Matt Meyer and McSorley is joined in the Luke Dicapua add extra experience frontcourt by 5-11 freshman to a 17-player roster comprised of forward Ava DiScala, who is a solid inside scorer and rebounder. many new faces.

“The team works very hard,” Junior 5-11 forward Katelyn Winter is another front-court presence Rossetti said. “I’m very pleased with backcourt experience as well with their attitude.” from being a former point guard Rossetti is looking to fill a at Seaford Middle School before void at point guard early in the season after last year’s starter Joe she grew six inches.

Sophomore point guard Taylor Angelastro suffered an injury in the Seaford football team’s country Sylvester will run the offense up the floor and was also a shooting finals loss to Cold Spring Harbor on Nov. 14. The coaching legend is threat from the perimeter while hoping that Angelastro can return starting on JV last year. Freshman shooting guard Jamie Horodecki later during his senior campaign.

By ANDREW COEN

L

34 — December 20, 2018

complements Sylvester in the Sylvester in the backcourt with an ability to an ability to drive to the basket. basket. could be one of the best “She could be one of the best have ever had,” said athletes we have ever had,” said Horodecki, who is also Vachris of Horodecki, who is also for Seaford softball. starting pitcher for Seaford softball. through the roof.”

“She can jump through the roof.” twin sisters Brook Freshmen twin sisters Brook Surace give Vachris two and Parker Surace give Vachris two scoring weapons off the bench that weapons off the bench that Vikings’ pace of can change the Vikings’ pace of quickness.Amanda play with their quickness. Amanda Gina Toscano will also Williams and Gina Toscano will also for the Vikings on play key roles for the Vikings on both ends of the floor. the floor.

To set the stage for Seaford’s stage for Seaford’s challenging conference schedule, conference schedule, Vachris scheduled nine non-league scheduled nine non-league games against some of the top some of the top teams on Long Island including Island including neighborhood foes Massfoes Massapequa and Wantagh.

Wantagh.

“We’re counting on counting on improving every every day,” he said.

Jamie McSorley

Schedule BoyS December 17 @ Island Trees

7:00 p.m.

January 3 8 11 14 16 19 25 29

@ Locust Valley Clarke @ Friends Academy Mineola West Hempstead Island Trees @ Mineola Locust Valley

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

February Ryan Butler

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 @ Clarke 12:00 p.m.

6 Friends Academy 7:00 p.m.

8 @ West Hempstead 6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 Island Trees

7:00 p.m.

January 4 9 12 15 19 26 30

@ Locust Valley 7:00 p.m.

Mineola 7:00 p.m.

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

Locust Valley 12:00 p.m. @ Mineola 7:00 p.m.

February 1 @ Clarke 7 West Hempstead

5:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

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December 20, 2018 — 35

2018-19 HERALD high School Basketball Preview

Sewanhaka Indians fresh off breakthrough season

By ANDREW MccLURE

S

ewanhaka posted its best season in program history in 2017-18. The Indians finished at 19-2, went undefeated in winning the Conference A-II title, and advanced to the semifinal round of the playoffs before suffering a heartbreaking defeat at the hands of Floral Park.

Graduation took its toll on a program that has won 47 games over the past three seasons, but by no means is it a rebuilding year.

Head coach Jay Allen has a hardworking group looking to pick up where last year’s team left off.

“The energy is great, and the guys are motivated,” Allen said.

“They’re probably not as talented as last year’s team, but they work as hard. I think last year’s experience taught them that a high standard has been set. They don’t want to have the stigma of being a team that lowered the bar.”

Senior Joe Hicks takes over at point guard for the Indians. Hicks can take the ball to the rack, find open teammates, or pull up and shoot. He also wreaks havoc on the defensive end. Senior guard Adam Rodriguez will step into a bigger role. Rodriguez is another player with endless energy, and he can shoot the ball from the perimeter.

Lucien Cherubin should be the first player off the bench, but could easily be a starter. The senior guard brings a great motor, excellent defense, and is strong in transition.

Freshman Kamren Denhart is a big part of the present and future.

Denhart handles the ball well, and has a strong mid-range game.

Junior Preston Harts is as versatile as it gets. His athleticism allows him to play either guard or forward, and he brings a positive attitude to the court each day.

Senior Spardley Jean-Baptiste loves to mix it up in the paint, and can drive and slash.

Allen will get max effort for junior Chuk Uchendu and senior Shawn Cothias. Uchendu is a versatile player who rebounds and gives the team depth on the wing.

Cothias has a knack for pulling down boards and converting on the offensive end.

Lots to like about Lady Tribe The Sewanhaka girls went

cally tough, and rebounds and defends with the best of them. Junior forward Mia Weinschreider will be a force in the paint, with hard-working senior Jessica Williams bringing lots of intangibles.

Junior Samirah Akinwunmi is a versatile player who can shoot the three or beat defenders off the dribble. Akinwunmi is a big-time performer on the defensive end as well.When the Indians need a three, junior Ashley Vigliotti is always a threat. Junior Nia Lariosa has a soft touch from elbow to elbow.

Senior Marianna Bevilacqua has improved on both ends of the floor.

Senior Shanell Wilson, junior guard Angelica Lazo and Kayla Louissaint, and energetic sophomore Lexi Schneidmuller will look to contribute.

undefeated in Conference A-II and entered the Class A playoffs as the number two seed in 2017-18. But, the Indians, who finished with an overall record of 17-3, ran into a hungry Locust Valley five and were upset in the opening round.

The schedule will be tougher this season as Elmont and Manhasset, two teams that also went undefeated while capturing their respective conference titles, will challenge Sewanhaka for league supremacy. With their top three scorers back, expect the Indians to be a team that’s tough to beat.

Head coach Alex Soupios isn’t looking too far down the road.

“We’re looking to get better every day,” Soupios said. “The approach is to bring intensity every time we step on the floor, whether it’s practice, warmups, scrimmages or games. We have great senior leaders. They will drive us.”

Senior captain Carly Bolivar (18 ppg) is one of the county’s most consistent players. The twotime All-County honoree not only led the team in scoring, but was recognized as the league’s top defensive player for the second straight season.

Flo Hunte Senior Flo Hunte, a fouryear captain who also earned All-County recognition, is the girl that makes the team go. Hunte has honed her passing skills and defensive ability to become an even better-rounded player.

Ashley Cattle is Sewanhaka’s X factor. The senior captain, an All-County Honorable Mention honoree, is mentally and physi-

Adam Rodriguez

Schedule

BoyS December 17 Jericho

20 Guilfoyle @ Great Neck North Matt

4:45 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

January

3 5 8 11 16 19 25 29 31

New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m. @ Carey 12:00 p.m. @ Elmont 4:30 p.m.

Manhasset 5:00 p.m. @ Kennedy 7:00 p.m. @ Jericho 12:00 p.m.

Great Neck North 4:30 p.m. @ New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m.

Carey 5:00 p.m.

February 2 Elmont 6 @ Manhasset 9 Kennedy

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 @ Jericho 20 Great Neck North

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 19 25 29 31

@ New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m.

Carey 12:00 p.m.

Elmont 4:30 p.m. @ Manhasset 6:30 p.m.

Kennedy 4:30 p.m.

Jericho 12:00 p.m. @ Great Neck North 6:45 p.m.

New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m. @ Carey 4:30 p.m.

February 2 @ Elmont 6 Manhasset 9 @ Kennedy

12:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

11:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

36 — December 20, 2018

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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Open for lunch 7 Days Mon -Thurs: 11-10 Fri-Sat 11-10:30 Sun 11-9 December 20, 2018 — 37

2018-19 HERALD high School Basketball Preview

South Side Cyclones face a challenging road a combination of athleticism and quickness, making him a prime candidate to get the toughest defensive assignment in the backhe Cyclones played their best court.

D’Angelo said it’s difficult basketball down the stretch to find anyone who can outwork last season and salvaged a senior Sean Grace, a 6-5 center .500 conference mark, elimiwho’s one of the team’s better nated Island Trees in an Class A outbracket playoff game and gave defenders. Senior Matt Seplowe will also contribute up front. then two-time defending county champion Elmont a scare before going down to defeat, 47-41.

High expectations While they weren’t stacked with seniors, those they had played for Lady Cyclones A perennial playoff participant a lot. South Side returns a pair of in Nassau Class A, the Lady full-time starters as well as a partial one as it tangles with Hewlett, Cyclones have lofty goals this winter after winning 16 games on Roosevelt, Bethpage, Glen Cove, the heels of a conference title the Roslyn, Plainedge and Division in previous season.

Conference A-III. “It’s a nice, bal“Class A is wide open and anced conference with Roosevelt we want to be one of the top four being the only conference chamteams and then see what we can pion from last season,” Cyclones do from there,” head coach Dan head coach Jerry D’Angelo said.

“We know we’re going to be in for Ferrick said. “We have size, athleticism and youth. We’ve always used a battle every game.”

An integral part of the team’s our depth. The difference this season is we have more height late-season surge in January, and versatility to go with it.” senior Chris Thomas will run the South Side is widely conshow as the point guard and sidered a leading contender to assume a leadership role. He had finish atop A-III, which includes 12 points in the playoff defeat at Elmont. “He’s a high-energy player Bethpage, Division, Glen Cove, and brought a lot of firepower off Hewlett, Plainedge, Roosevelt and Roslyn. the bench last season,” D’Angelo Senior Kelsey Barrett and said. “He’s quick off the dribble junior Katie McMahon lead the and hustles all over the court on charge for the Lady Cyclones, who defense. He came into camp in will experience a large dose of great shape.”

Class AA teams in non-conference Peter Pelligrini logged the tilts such as East Meadow, Port most minutes of any returnee, Washington and Herricks. but his senior campaign will get Barrett comes off an Honoroff to a delayed start due to an ankle injury suffered in the football able Mention All-County camplayoffs. The 6-foot-2 forward has paign and has a steady all-around a knack for grabbing rebounds, will game. She’s a 10-point, 10-reget some offensive looks and also bound candidate in the frontcourt. serve as a vocal leader on the floor. “Kelsey bangs the boards and can Junior wing Eamon McGowan shoot from the outside,” Ferrick said. “We can use her anywhere, started 70 percent of games and even on the press-break.” is as versatile as anyone on the McMahon saw plenty of roster. “He does a lot of things well varsity minutes as a freshman and we’re encouraging him to be guard two seasons ago and was more aggressive with the ball,” a key part of the starting five as D’Angelo explained. a sophomore. “She’s very hard to Senior Matt Goldstein brings cover,” Ferrick said. “She has good

By TONy BELLISSIMO

t

38 — December 20, 2018

range, drives well and can really jump.”

Senior Erin McElwain runs the point and plays at a quick pace.

She’s backed by sophomore Dana Allen, who helped the JV go 19-0. Junior Theresa Kenny is the best pure shooter on the roster, Fer Ferrick said, and sophomore guard/forward Olivia Medford can present a matchup problem after a growth spurt to 5-foot-10.

Sophomore center Sydney Rathjen missed a chunk of time due to injury a season ago and could be primed for a breakout.

She shoots well and is aggressive on the boards and as a shot-blocker. Junior forward Arianna McLean, a transfer from Mepham, is tough on the glass and can put the ball in the basket.

Kelsey Barrett

Schedule BoyS December 17 Glen Cove 20 @ Roslyn

January Matt Guilfoyle 3 5 8 11 16 19 26 29 31

@ Hewlett Bethpage @ Roosevelt Division Plainedge @ Glen Cove Roslyn Hewlett @ Bethpage

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 Roosevelt 6 @ Division 9 @ Plainedge

1:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December Peter Pellegrini

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

17 @ Glen Cove 20 Roslyn

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 19 25 29 31

Hewlett @ Bethpage Roosevelt @ Division @ Plainedge Glen Cove @ Roslyn @ Hewlett Bethpage

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 @ Roosevelt 6 Division 9 Plainedge

10:00 a.m.

6:45 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Photos by Sue Greico

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December 20, 2018 — 39

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

V.S. Central Balanced Eagles seek to go far

By DAVID WEINGRAD

F

ollowing a third-place conference finish last year and a postseason berth, Valley Stream Central will look to make a deeper playoff run this season, featuring a mix of returning seniors and fresh younger talent as it makes the shift from Conference AA-III to A-I. Leading the senior class is Ahunna Okoko, an, athletic All-County combination guard who utilizes his 6-foot-2 frame to attack the rim to complement his strong mid-range game, and senior point guard Armani O’Brady, who serves as the team’s quarterback in setting up the offense and is a tough off-the-ball defender, said head coach Hayward Alfred. Other key returning players include junior guard Dakari Songui and senior forward Colin Chevry.

Alfred acknowledged that as an undersized unit compared to years past, his team will likely adopt an up-tempo styled offense with a heavy emphasis on the play of his guards to maximize their efficiency.

New additions who Hayward expects to make an impact this year include 6-1 sophomore forward Dawin Fanor and 6-2 junior guard Tyler Ray, both promoted from junior varsity. Senior Jason Peat, who missed last year with an injury, will provide a boost on the defensive side.

While Hayward figures out his rotations during the preseason, he said the added depth will provide a lift to an already talented group.

“We’ll be balanced and we’ll be deeper,” Alfred said. “We’re going to guard. We’re going to play defense every night.”

Another X-factor on the team is junior Jaicob Tejada, a tough, physical forward who Alfred called a strong finisher around the rim and a skilled post defender.

In his nearly two decades at VSC, it will be Aldred’s first time 40 — December 20, 2018

coaching the team in Class A, which will offer a new slate of competition. It’ll be an adjustment, he said, but it’s a challenge he and his team are more than ready to embrace.

“I know every game, every night will be tough,” Alfred said.

“But it’s a hard-working group of young men. They show up to work every day and they show up to practice and play.”

Other key players include senior guard Kaitlin Gabiddon and freshman Britney Russell, both of whom Thorngren expects to be in the starting lineup.

Like the VSC boys, the Lady Eagles will be shifting to conferconfer ence A-1 this season for the first time, a move that Thorngren said may prove to benefit her squad following last year’s difficult run.

“Each game for us is going to be something new,” she said. “I hope New conference, it’s going to be a good thing, movnew look Lady ing down a conference may help Eagles us a little bit.”

Despite winning just two Based on what she’s seen early in conference games, head coach practices, Thorngren expects her Malyssa Thorngren felt her Valley Lady Eagles to run an Stream Central Lady Eagles took up-tempo style of a step in the right direction last play, and said season, with many of their losses she’s excited coming in competitive contests to see which that her youthful squad couldn’t athletes step close out. up to the fill And while Thorngren hoped the voids left to parlay that momentum to by the departed more wins this year, she’ll have players. to do it with a mostly revamped “The girls roster. Because of scheduling and extracurricular conflicts, four of the we have, they’re all working hard,” she team’s top six scorers from a year said. “I can’t complain ago are no longer with the team, which was an unexpected develop- about effort. If they keep working hard, and if they ment as the Lady Eagles began continue to gel, I think we tryouts this fall. can have a pretty decent “Right now, we’re trying to figure out who we are as a team,” season.” said Thorngren, adding that she’s using the preseason to determine roles and instill stability before opening day.

But the coach expressed plenty of reason for optimism. Of the four returning players from a season ago, one is junior Janay Legagneur, their top scorer last year who will now be able to slide from point guard to forward, her natural position, thanks to the emergence of Ariana Haughton, a freshman point guard who Thorngren called a true floor general.

“I’m excited to work with Janay Legagneur Ariana,” Thorngren said. “I think she’s going to be a really good player with some development.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Ahunna Okolo

Schedule

BoyS December 17 Mepham 20 Calhoun

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 11 16 19 25 29 31

@ Garden City 6:30 p.m.

Great Neck South 10:00 a.m. @ Herricks 7:00 p.m.

MacArthur 6:30 p.m. @ Mepham 12:00 p.m. @ Calhoun 6:30 p.m.

Garden City 6:45 p.m. @ Great Neck South 6:30 p.m.

February 6 Herricks 9 @ MacArthur

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 @ Mepham 20 @ Calhoun

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 4 11 16 19 25 29 31

Garden City 6:45 p.m. @ Great Neck South 6:30 p.m.

Herricks 6:45 p.m. @ MacArthur 6:30 p.m.

Mepham 12:00 p.m.

Calhoun 6:30 p.m. @ Garden City 6:30 p.m.

Great Neck South 6:30 p.m.

February 6 @ Herricks 9 MacArthur

7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

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December 20, 2018 — 41

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

V.S. Nort NortH Young, quick Spartans aim for a rebound year until a three-game winning streak from Jan. 30-Feb. 7), but is preaching patience as the new lineup goes through an adjustment fter two powerhouse period. seasons in which the team “I think we’re going to won a combined 35 games, struggle a little bit in the beginning the Valley Stream North boys had because we are very young,” he a difficult time stringing victories said. “We’ll have to figure out our together for most of the 2017-18 campaign and finished 9-11 before mistakes [and] learn from them, but these kids are hungry and bowing to Sewanhaka in the first they’re working hard and that’s all round of the Class A playoffs. you can ask as a coach.”

The team will be markedly smaller and younger this year, but Lady Spartans’ if everything falls right, the Spartans could again be a contender rebuild begins for that elusive county championNorth’s girls’ team has gone ship. through some lean times in recent “This year, we’re young,” seasons, but some up-and-coming head coach Dan Achatz said. players could turn the program “We’ve got talent, we’ve got around sooner than later. speed. We don’t have height like The Lady Spartans are coming we’ve had in the past, we have off a dismal 1-17 season and have to overcome that, but we should won just three times in the last definitely compete against any two campaigns, but coach George team.”

Karahalios is confident that the Like last year, the team lost competitiveness they showed several key contributors to gradudown the stretch last winter can ation. The Spartans will now rely carry over into this season. heavily on junior C.J. Parris, who The losses of many impact sewill slide to the point after spendniors the past couple of years has ing last season as the two-guard, hurt the program, but this year’s and senior Chris Manzi, who roster is more on the younger side will take over at the two. Parris with sophomores, freshman, and averaged 11.4 points a game and even an eighth grader manning was VSN’s top scorer in the playoff many of the spots. Karahalios is game with 18 points. hoping that stability can equal “He’s probably one of the more wins. fastest transition guys I’ve ever “Right now, [I’m] just teaching coached as far as getting the them basic fundamentals and rebound, going straight down and building a team camaraderie, taking it coast-to-coast,” Achatz so hopefully, after two years of said. “This summer, he’s worked playing with each other, we can on his jump shot and he’s added build something and be a little a 3-point game. He really is a successful,” he said. complete player.”

VSN struggled offensively Senior Tristan Ferreira returns last season by averaging just over at small forward and physical ju22 points a game, including 10 nior Serge Thrasybule , senior Eddie contests of 20 points or fewer, Ye and sophomore Luke Sibblies but junior shooting guard Victoria will rotate in the power forwardAlcala could help there after starcenter spots, according to Achatz. ring with the JV squad.

Achatz is hoping for a stron“She made a huge jump in ger start this season (the Spartans her skill set the last two years,” didn’t win consecutive games last Karahalios said. “I think she’ll

By BRIAN KACHARABA

A

42 — December 20, 2018

make a huge jump onto the varsity program and pick up some of that scoring.”

Karahalios is also looking for more scoring from sophomore point guard Emmie Saracino, who hopes to pick up where her sister Cassie, last year’s third-leading scorer at 4.1 points a game, left off. Senior Katie Hawkins, who was second on the team at 4.8 points a game, returns as a forward-center swingman and has improved all facets of her game offensively and defensively during the offseason, according to Karahalios.

Sophomore Avianna Smith, whose free throw with 18 seconds left helped the Lady Spar Spartans to their only victory of the season on Jan. 13, was another recall from JV and is expected to make a bigger contribution up front. Senior Christina Karp is back at after missing time last season because of injury.

Katie Hawkins

Schedule

BoYS December

Matt GuilfOyle GuilfOyle Oyle

18 Lynbrook 20 @ North Shore

7:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 16 19 25 29 31

@ Wantagh Floral Park @ Lawrence V.S. South @ Lynbrook North Shore Wantagh @ Floral Park

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

11:00 a.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

February 2 Lawrence 9 @ V.S. South

12:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

18 @ Lynbrook 20 North Shore

6:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December January 3 5 8 16 19 25 29 31

Wantagh @ Floral Park Lawrence @ V.S. South Lynbrook @ North Shore @ Wantagh Floral Park

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

February C.J. Parris

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2 @ Lawrence 9 V.S. South

12:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Photos by Keith O’Reilly

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 20, 2018 — 43

2018-19 HERALD high School Basketball Preview

V.S. South Falcons are equipped to soar high tice, junior Emil Williams has been tapped to start at guard. “Emil can attack, he can shoot, and he’s a quick learner,” O’Brien said. “I wasn’t expecting a junior to step in ridging a two-year title gap, an all first-year-starting so naturally.”

Bench-wise, South will count squad put South back in business last season, winning Con- on contributions from Senior Justin ference A-IV at 11-1, 16-5 overall, Ahye (6-4), junior Nick Trail, and high-flying sophomore Jahiem while advancing to the Nassau Pilgrim.

Class A quarterfinals.

“We’ve got athletes,” O’Brien It was the first top finish for said. “They went far together last VSS since the 2014-15 Falcons year, and now our goal is to get claimed the Long Island Class A further, to the finals of Nassau crown, on the heels of back-toCounty.” back Nassau titles.

Returning to A-IV with key Lady Falcons’ main offensive pieces, including the conference’s top-scoring backcourt, pieces still in place The Lady Falcons’ core begins VSS may present a near best-case scenario for new head coach Mike its third season as a unit – simplifying matters for incoming head O’Brien – last year’s Lady Falcons coach Daryl Johnson. Moreover, skipper – who replaces muchfour starters – three coming off honored Matt Johnsen. state championships in other “These guys were wellsports – return for VSS, which coached,” O’Brien said. “I give finished third in A-IV at 7-5, 13-7 credit to coach Johnsen. We’ll be changing some things, but not too overall, and appeared in the first much. You don’t want to fool with round of the Class A playoffs.

Johnson – a girls’ assistant success.” basketball coach at Long Island Reigning A-IV Player of the Lutheran last winter – reckons Year Aaron Davis returns at point South’s main challenge consists guard. The senior team captain averaged 15.6 points a game and in fusing long-standing chemistry 6 assists. “Aaron can score almost with crossover momentum.

“These ladies know each at will, but he’d rather get an other well, and know how to play assist,” O’Brien said. “In terms of court vision and instincts, he’s one together,” said Johnson, whose team returns to A-IV. “They know of the best I’ve ever seen.”

In the swing spot, VSS returns from their other teams what it’s like to deal with obstacles and to All-Conference senior Corey go very far. I think there’s a way Powell (13.9 ppg). “Corey’s a they can bring that winning tradipure shooter and a phenomenal tion to the basketball court.” defender,” O’Brien said of the South’s most decorated two6-foot-2 co-captain. “He and sport star is All-County forward Aaron are natural leaders.”

Chibugo Obichere – a two-year Seniors Michael Hicks and reigning state champion hurdler Elijah Johnson (6-3) are pivotal – who had 14 points a game tweeners in South’s new scheme. last year with as many rebounds.

“Michael’s got strength and a “Chibugo does everything,” good jump shot.” O’Brien said.

Johnson said of the fourth-year “He’ll play both guard positions, and even the three. Elijah can play starting senior. “She’s a great slasher, a good scorer, and a strong big at center, but also shoot from rebounder.” deep. He’ll drag bigs out to guard Fresh off a Class A state him outside.” championship in soccer, two-year Impressing coaches in pracAll-Conference point guard

By garrett uriBe

B

44 — December 20, 2018

Hailey Roberts (8 ppg) is a third-year starting sophomore for South, while title-winning teammate Natalie Peralta joins the starting five as a senior at forward.

“Hailey has great court vision and a high basketball IQ,” Johnson said. “Natalie’s our glue keeping everything together. She’s very versatile.”

A surprise standout as a sophomore last season, Erica Sarpong (7.7 ppg) returns at guard for South, with senior center DeAnna Mar Martin – a sometime forward who led VSS in blocked shots – guarding the lane for a second season.

“Erica’s a natural scorer,” Johnson said. “She’s one of our best shooters.

DeAnna’s very good inside.

She’s a great defender and she can also get rebounds.”

“The ladies are older and wiser,” Johnson added. “We’ve had to establish a new system quickly, and they’ve been learning it quickly. I think we can build on experience and improve on last season.”

Aaron Davis

Schedule BoyS

Matt Guilfoyle December 20 Lynbrook

7:15 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 16 25 29 31

North Shore Wantagh @ Floral Park Lawrence @ V.S. North @ Lynbrook @ North Shore @ Wantagh

7:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 Floral Park 6 @ Lawrence 9 V.S. North

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

GIRLS December 21 @ Lynbrook

Chibugo Obichere

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

6:15 p.m.

January 3 8 11 15 16 25 29 31

@ North Shore Floral Park @ Lawrence Wantagh V.S. North Lynbrook North Shore Wantagh

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

February 2 @ Floral Park 6 Lawrence 9 @ V.S. North

12:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2018-19 HERALD high School Basketball Preview

Wantagh

Warriors bring higher aspirations point guard after leading the junior varsity backcourt last year.

“He has very good court vision,” Harclerode said of von Bargen, who amassed 285 all-purpose fter missing the playoffs yards for Wantagh football during by one win last season, Wantagh is poised for a a --- county semifinal win against South Side. “He is very quick.” breakthrough this winter.

Sophomore Jaden Ventura, The Warriors went 5-7 in who moved to Wantagh from Conference A-III with two late Queens, gives Harclerode another three-point losses sinking their backcourt option either at point postseason hopes. Much of the pieces return giving under second- or shooting guard. Harclerode is also looking for 6-4 Ray Rathgaber year head coach Joe Harclerode confidence Wantagh can compete and John Bendnor to provide key minutes. for a conference title.

“We are deep so we are “I’m expecting much bigger going to try and play up-tempo,” things this year,” said Harclerode, Harclerode said. “We are going to a former longtime head coach who arrived at Wantagh after play aggressive.” spending five years as an assistant coach at Sayville. “We have almost Lady Warriors lean on everyone back.”

Junior Brandon Goldberg senior leadership gives Wantagh an inside presence A balanced lineup and deep who can also shoot from longbench will position Wantagh for a range. The 6-foot-7 Goldberg, who run at a repeat conference title. plays the three-guard position, The Lady Warriors return key averaged 13 points and eight pieces from last year’s 15-7 team rebounds during his sophomore that captured Conference A-III campaign. with a 12-1 mark. Wantagh fell “We expect a lot of things just one short of competing for the out of him inside and out,” said program’s first county crown since Harclerode of Goldberg. ‘He is a 2006 with a semifinal setback to dual threat.” second-seeded North Shore.

Fellow junior Nick Teresky “Our goals are definitely highadds quickness to the backcourt er this year,” said longtime Wantat shooting guard after earning agh head coach Stan Bujacich. a starting spot as a sophomore.

“We have a good mixture of great Teresky is coming off a monster senior leadership and underclassseason on the football field with men.”

10 rushing touchdowns.

Wantagh’s four seniors were “He’s a really good slasher,” all given captain roles includHarclerode said of Teresky. “He’s ing Caitlin Albanese, Megan incredibly athletic.”

Lucey, Brianna Derham and Mary Senior forward Kyle Graham Kate Delgais. Bujacich has been is another returning starter who impressed early on how the four also shined this fall on the gridiron seniors have led the younger play-as a tight end. Harclerode was ers at practices. impressed last year by Graham’s Albanese enters her senior rebounding ability and his aggres- season coming off her a second siveness in the paint. straight All-County season in Among new starters which she averaged 15.1 points Harclerode sees emerging are 6-1 per game. The veteran guard will forward Ethan Insinga, who is also look to feed the ball down to standout lacrosse player. Junior Tom junior Julia Wilkinson, who avervon Bargen is slated to be starting aged 10.5 points a game to earn

By ANDREW COEN

a

Honorable Mention All-County accolades. Wilkinson played forward last season and will likely be set up on the wing this winter, “Both are high IQ players,’ said Bujacich of his two returning higher scorers. “They are like coaches out there.”

The Lady Warriors will be without the services of two-time All-County forward Angela Labenberg, who will be forced to miss her senior season after having shoulder surgery. Bujacich got some help in trying to fill the void led behind by Labenberg with the arrival of junior Irene Huguet, a foreign exchange student from Spain who is spending the 2018-19 school year at Wantagh.

Versatile sophomore forward Morgan Flaherty, who was a point guard at Wantagh Middle School two years ago, brings a solid mid-range jumper into the frontcourt after earning valuable experience as a freshman.

Lucey returns after earning AllConference honors at guard the last two seasons and was also the league’s Defensive Player of the Year.

Wantagh’s 12-player deep roster includes returning varsity players Jenna Kaufmann (forward), Ally Vaccaro (center) and Derham.

Newcomers up from JV who could contribute include Dylan Small, Reilly Brady and Madison Taylor.

Caitlin Albanese

Schedule

BoyS Matt Guilfoyle December

17 Floral Park 20 @ Lawrence

6:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 5 8 11 18 25 29 31

V.S. North @ V.S. South @ Lynbrook North Shore @ Floral Park Lawrence @ V.S. North V.S. South

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 2 Lynbrook 6 @ North Shore

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 @ Floral Park 20 Lawrence

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

January 3 8 10 15 19 25 29 31

@ V.S. North Lynbrook @ North Shore V.S. South Floral Park @ Lawrence V.S. North @ V.S. South

6:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

February Brandon Goldberg

2 @ Lynbrook 6 North Shore

10:00 a.m.

6:30 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

December 20, 2018 — 45

2018-19 HERALD High school Basketball preview

West Hempstead Defense a key to Rams’ success one kid who is going to give us 15-20 points a night,” Cosgrove said. “It’s likely going to have to be a different guy stepping up every night. If we’re going to be successful, defending and pushing the ball up the court will be key.”

offense each time down.”

Versatile junior forward Korrina Plair is the key to the he past couple seasons have team’s defense been tough on the West when it presses Hempstead boys. The Rams and traps. Plair picked up a couple of wins early has a knack on in the 2017-18 season, but a for anticipatExperience a big tough schedule and the lack of ing where the consistent scoring led to a difficult plus for Lady Rams next pass is 11-game losing streak to close out The West Hempstead girls headed, and is the season. a solid rebounder were a respectable 9-10 in 2017The Rams return a pair of who can run the 18, but the Rams lost their last starters, but will once again have three league contests and finished floor. a relatively inexperienced lineup.

When the on the outside looking in at the With Seaford, Locust Valley, Friends Nassau Class A playoffs.

Rams need Academy, Island Trees, Clarke, and While a small roster will mean a three, Mineola on the league schedule, a lack of depth and a lonely bench, they’re securing a postseason berth will hoping nearly everyone is back, including not be an easy task. junior Kelley the team’s top five scorers. The “Last year, we underperRams won’t have it easy in Confer- LaRosa can formed, so we need to regroup provide instant ence A-V. Clarke, Seaford, Island and crawl back up,” head coach offense from Trees, Locust Valley, and Mineola Ed Cosgrove said. “It’s hard to tell are league foes. The latter four downtown. Junior where we are as a team at this were all playoff teams a year ago. Kate Shanley is point. We have athletic kids. We’ll a grinder who The blueprint isn’t a complilook to play tough defense and doesn’t mind cated one. “If we take care of the create offense off our defense. ball and play good defense, we can mixing it up in the Every year, the goal is to make the be ok,” head coach Chris Van Kov- paint. playoffs, if not it’s a disappointics said. “We have to rebound well, ment. It’s going to be a challenge make smart decisions, and limit the to get there.” opponent’s opportunities.”

Michael Parnell is a twoJa’nya Flash, an All-County guard who showed signs of being Honorable Mention honoree, is

zone-buster as a junior. The Rams a double-double machine. Flash, will look to Parnell for scoring from who averaged 13.4 points per the perimeter. Senior Jacob Bonet game as a junior, is tough on the will also be a threat to fill it up boards, has an improved perimeter from the outside. game, and handles the ball very The starting point guard well. Ripping down a rebound position is up for grabs. Senior and taking it coast to coast is not Haj Kargbo can play both guard beyond Flash’s skillset. positions. Junior Duane Bernard, a Junior Jenna Eivazi (13.5 newcomer to the program, is quick ppg) has the ability to shoot the and can take it to the rack and fin- three or take her opponent off ish. Bernard is a strong perimeter the dribble and get to the basket. shooter and a solid defensive Eivazi forms a nice tandem with player. junior point guard Haley Duran.

Ja’nya Flash In the frontcourt, Kobe McMil- Both are strong on-ball defenders. lan, a 6-foot-4 senior will look to Duran handles the ball well and attack the basket and spend an puts teammates in position to inordinate amount of time at the score. free throw line. Senior Angel Garcia “We have to be active, get is a big body who is tough to move in the passing lanes, and score in when he positions himself on the transition,” Van Kovics said. “We blocks. don’t want to walk the ball up “I don’t think we have that the floor and set up a half court

By ANDREW MccLURE

t

46 — December 20, 2018

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Michael Parnell

Matt Guilfoyle

Schedule

BoyS December 17 @ Clarke 20 Friends Academy

7:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

January 5 8 11 16 19 25 31

Island Trees 10:00 a.m.

Mineola 4:30 p.m.

Locust Valley 4:30 p.m. @ Seaford 7:00 p.m.

Clarke 10:00 a.m. @ Friends Academy 6:15 p.m. @ Island Trees 4:30 p.m.

February 4 @ Mineola 6 @ Locust Valley 8 Seaford

6:15 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

GIRLS December 17 @ Clarke

4:30 p.m.

January 4 9 12 15 18 26 30

@ Mineola @ Island Trees Locust Valley Seaford Clarke Mineola Island Trees

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

February 1 @ Locust Valley 7 @ Seaford

6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

Photos by Sue Grieco

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2018-19 HERALD High School Basketball Preview

2018-19

Nassau CouNty BasketBall CONFERENCE AA-I

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

CONFERENCE AA-II

• Baldwin • Westbury • East Meadow • Hicksville • Plainview • Port Washington • Long Beach

CONFERENCE A-I

• Herricks • Great Neck South • Calhoun • MacArthur • Garden City • Mepham • V.S. Central

CONFERENCE A-IV

• Wantagh • V.S. North • North Shore • Lawrence • Lynbrook • V.S. South • Floral Park

CONFERENCE A-II

• Sewanhaka • Elmont • Carey • Great Neck North • Jericho • New Hyde Park • Manhasset • Bellmore-JFK

CONFERENCE A-V

• Mineola • Clarke • Island Trees • Seaford • West Hempstead • Locust Valley

CONFERENCE B

CONFERENCE A-III

• Carle Place • Cold Spring Harbor • East Rockaway • Malverne • Oyster Bay • Friends Academy • Wheatley

• Hewlett • South Side • Roslyn • Roosevelt • Glen Cove • Bethpage • Plainedge • Division

Jamie Behar, Oceanside High School Photo by John Heckman

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December 20, 2018 — 47

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48 — December 20, 2018

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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