Work ethic fuels Amityville's improvement

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Amityville’s girls' basketball team is in the midst of a transformative season, thanks to a shift in culture and a renewed focus on hard work, chemistry, and dedication.

Head coach Tom Maloney, who joined the program three years ago, has helped instill a new level of discipline and commitment. “Our team has embraced an offseason program,” said Maloney. “Improving both their skills and team chemistry was very important because it was previously a missing element.”

The team started the 2024-25 season strong and is in a position to make the playoffs, sitting with a 5-9 overall record and 3-5 in league play. The Warriors find themselves on a two-game winning streak thanks to victories over Eastport South Manor on Jan. 10 and Wyandanch on Jan. 14.

A key component of the resurgence is the strong group of athletes, including a talented crop of upperclassmen and promising underclassmen. The junior class, including Delainey Katz, has been a standout. “Katz, who is graduating early, has been a defensive leader since her freshman year," said Maloney. “She continues to be a crucial part of the team’s backbone, providing leadership both on and off the court.”

Senior Alana Henry, a three-sport varsity athlete and captain for the past three years, averaged a double-double last season and recorded a career-high 32 points in a game. “She is the heart of the team, leading by example with her work ethic and commitment," Maloney said.

Another captain Natalia Baptiste, a sophomore and transfer from Queens, has been the starting point guard since eighth grade. “Baptist’s dedication to the weight room and offseason workouts has made her a pivotal figure in the team’s success,” Maloney said.

Freshman Aaliyah Jones, who won league Rookie of the Year last season, has also been a standout. As the team’s primary defender, Jones is tasked with guarding the best player on the opposing team and is among the top three-point shooters. Anayah Hampton, a three-year starter, provides toughness and a physical presence in the paint as the team’s center, while Jaelle Aiken, a key contributor off the bench, injects energy and grit into the lineup.

Maloney also lauded Amityville’s depth. Andrea Santos, a sophomore forward, Mariah Williams, another sophomore who is versatile to play multiple positions, and sophomore guard Jada Chatman all make impacts. “They make their teammates so much better,” said Maloney. “They all have bright futures and are on track to get significant minutes in the future.”

Senior Imani Brown and sophomore Sarah Dorsica bring plenty of energey and add to the Warriors' deep rotation. 

Along with assistant coaches Mike Abbondondolo and Olivia Thomas, Maloney has gotten his team to buy into the culture. “With a mix of experienced players like Henry and Baptist, and emerging stars like Jones and Aikan, I think it’s safe to say this program is on the rise,” Maloney said. “The hard work and dedication these girls put in are paying off.”