Thursday, October 1, 2026
In his final season at the helm, longtime head coach Jack Agostino is guiding the Amityville boys basketball team through a campaign defined by high expectations, steady growth and a deep sense of purpose.
With a 3-4 overall record and a strong 3-1 mark in league play, the Tide is positioning itself for a push toward their ultimate goal: a league championship.
“The expectation is always for us to perform at the highest level,” Agostino said. “Great teamwork, playing the right way, and competing every night. Our goal is to win seven league games and we already have three. We want to be league champs.”
Amityville’s results so far reflect both promise and challenge. The Tide, which captured the Suffolk Class AA title last season and is now in Class A, opened the season with a 56–49 win over Miller Place on Dec. 16, followed by a 51–47 victory against Sayville on Dec. 20. A demanding late December stretch tested the group against elite competition, including losses to St. Anthony’s (68-50), Elmont (63-49) and Hempstead (82-71). The team rebounded with a gritty 48–46 win over Sayville on Jan. 5 before dropping a 65–59 decision to Kings Park two days later.
Leading the way is senior captain Amir Dickerson, regarded by many as the top public school player on Long Island. Dickerson has been the engine of the offense, averaging 20.6 points per game. An extremely talented and highly coachable point guard, he sets the tone with his scoring ability, court vision and leadership. “He’s special,” Agostino said. “He’s a leader who’s extremely coachable and he wants to be great.”
Dickerson is joined in the captain’s role by senior Westly Flythe, whose development has been one of the team’s most encouraging storylines. Flythe’s improvement on both ends of the floor has added stability and confidence to the lineup.
Junior captain Allan Dodson-Isabell has also taken a major step forward after putting in extensive work over the summer. His dedication has paid off in the form of timely baskets, including several big shots in crucial moments that have swung momentum in Amityville’s favor.
The Tide have had to adjust without senior Jordan Hines, who has missed some time due to injury. While his absence has been felt on the court, Hines continues to provide valuable leadership from the bench. “The guys love having him around,” said Agostino.
Amityville’s depth was bolstered by several newcomers and underclassmen. Junior wing Camron Alford has made an immediate impact with his shooting ability, length and athleticism, while also standing out as a strong defender. Another pleasant surprise, Agostino said, is sophomore Jeremiah Rasdall, a transfer from Arizona who is still learning the system but has already shown flashes of his potential.
Junior JJ Washington, whose father once played for Agostino, is a raw but intriguing talent. “JJ is still developing,” Agostino said. “But his basketball IQ and natural ability give us coaches plenty to work with.”
Sophomore Isaiah Nixon has emerged as a reliable option off the bench, bringing a great motor and lights-out shooting. Agostino said he has been very happy with Nixon’s performance.
The program’s future is also on display through its freshmen. Adam Dodson-Isabell has impressed with his relentless hunger and fearlessness, showing no intimidation regardless of the moment. Ryan Victor has steadily earned more minutes as the season progresses, while sophomore Teydan Mason is finally getting healthy and providing solid point guard play with a knack for making things happen.
Practice intensity remains high, thanks in part to players like Daijawn Dacosta, who consistently plays hard, and seniors Noah Robinson and Jacob Billinger, both football players who joined the team this season and bring infectious energy.
Agostino is supported by former Amityville standout AJ Price. The former NBA player who spent six seasons in the pros, is a demanding assistant coach. “He pushes players in a positive way,” Agostino said. “He has been building strong, positive relationships with our players.”
None of this would be possible, though, without the players’ desire to represent Amityville the right way. “Kids want to learn and get better,” he said. “We can be tough on them because they care.”
The Tide has a six-game homestand beginning this Thursday against red-hot Mount Sinai at 5:30 p.m.
