Two standout athletes, Kayden Mingo from Long Island Lutheran and Dom Pennzello from Mount Sinai, have left indelible marks on their respective programs. Mingo, a versatile senior guard, was instrumental in leading his team to new heights, including the program's first-ever national championship. Meanwhile, Pennzello’s scoring prowess helped Mount Sinai secure its first-ever Suffolk and Long Island titles. Both players exemplify leadership, skill, and dedication, earning them recognition as Players of the Year.

Beyond these two remarkable individuals, other key players and coaches also contributed significantly to an unforgettable basketball season. From exceptional performances in crucial games to consistent excellence throughout the year, this season showcased the depth and talent of Long Island basketball.

Kayden Mingo: A Leader and Champion

Kayden Mingo's contributions extend far beyond his impressive statistics. As a four-year veteran at Long Island Lutheran, he has been pivotal in transforming the program into a national powerhouse. His leadership qualities were particularly evident during his senior year when he embraced a more strategic role on the court, averaging 13.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. These numbers only tell part of the story; his ability to adapt and lead his team through challenging matchups made him invaluable.

Mingo’s journey includes navigating competitive leagues such as the National Interscholastic Basketball Conference and the Nike EYBL Scholastic Conference. Under his guidance, Long Island Lutheran reached unprecedented levels, culminating in their Throne National Championship victory. Coach John Buck praised Mingo for his unwavering commitment and reliability over the years. In addition to being named Gatorade New York Player of the Year, Mingo earned All-Long Island honors twice and will continue his career at Penn State. His legacy is cemented not just by accolades but by the impact he had on elevating his team's status both locally and nationally.

Dom Pennzello: Scoring Machine and Program Builder

Mount Sinai’s Dom Pennzello proved himself as one of the most formidable scorers in Long Island basketball this season. With averages of 26.7 points across six postseason games and 22.2 points overall, Pennzello played a crucial role in guiding the Mustangs to their historic achievements. His performance in high-pressure situations demonstrated his mental toughness and love for the game. Whether facing double teams or tight defenses, Pennzello consistently found ways to deliver when it mattered most.

Pennzello concluded his high school career as Mount Sinai's all-time leading scorer with 1,591 points. His versatility allowed him to excel at all three levels of scoring while maintaining efficiency from beyond the arc. Coach Ryan McNeely highlighted Pennzello's unique ability to remain composed under pressure, making clutch plays that defined his leadership. Although the Mustangs fell short in the state finals, their run was nothing short of spectacular, thanks largely to Pennzello's efforts. Moving forward, he plans to join Drew University in New Jersey, where expectations are high given his proven track record and potential for further growth.