North Babylon’s girls’ basketball team has gotten off to a good start, winning four of its first six games.
Head coach Matt Giannelli, in his fourth season at the helm, has done all he can to build the program after going from what was a 4-15 team just two seasons ago. “We brought a lot of these girls up as eighth graders and allowed them to develop,” he said. “The chemistry they have built has been fun to watch.”
In her senior season, Jasmine McKay continues to shine with her dominance on the court. After leading all of Long Island last season averaging 28.5 points per game, she once again leads her team in scoring through six games.
With McKay leading the charge, the other standout players on this young squad are Olivia Rush, Dakota Rivers, Molly Oak, and Madison Murdocco. They have all been on varsity since eighth grade and have been huge contributors in the program getting to where it is today. “Each of them have brought their own unique skill set to the team,” said Giannelli. “They all complement each other so well.”
Additionally, Malia Coakley has also shown potential, contributing both offensively and defensively. One of the key additions was Carriana Prunell. “She was such a big pick up for us as a transfer from Copiague,” Giannelli said. “She is so valuable coming in as the sixth player off the bench.”
Another with the team since her freshman year is Brianna Robinson. “Brianna has developed into one of the team’s most consistent contributors,” said Giannelli. “Her development over the last three years has been great.”
The Bulldogs have had a challenging schedule so far, including a grueling non-league slate where they played almost every other day for two straight weeks. The experience is crucial, as the team continues to get better, especially with the younger roster that it has. “We’re still learning as we go,” said Giannelli. “We have nine sophomores on this year’s roster so with the help of veteran leadership, we are aiming to get better everyday.”
During his tenure at North Babylon, Giannelli has learned some things about how to grow as a head coach as well. "What I learned is that if I show the commitment, then they’ll show the commitment," he said. "The program has grown so much but the biggest thing about coaching at the varsity level is continuing to grow together."
After going 14-7 overall and 9-5 in league play a season ago, North Babylon has set the bar high. While they have gotten off to another positive start that included victories over Ward Melville, West Babylon, Elmont and Huntington (League III opener), there is still plenty of work to do.
In addition to Huntington, the Bulldogs battle Northport, Half Hollow Hills East, Smithtown East, Copiague and Newfield in league play.
“Playing these games will only make us better in the long run,” Giannelli said.
