MULES: Malverne sets sights on more hardware

With six consecutive Nassau Class B boys’ basketball crowns and four straight L.I. titles, Malverne has been one of the more dominant programs in New York State and figures to continue its rich tradition.

The Mules, winners of 15 games last season, including a 79-71 decision over Wyandanch in the L.I. Class B championship game, are built to make life difficult for new Conference B-C foes Carle Place, Cold Spring Harbor, East Rockaway, Friends Academy, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Wheatley.

“We’re easily 10-deep this season,” coach Darrol Lopez said. “We have a lot of talent up and down the lineup. We have some strong returning varsity players and we’ll also be relying on a bunch of guys coming up from JV.”

Senior Corey Alexander, an All-Conference selection who averaged 11 points per game while spending the majority of last season running the point, is moving to forward where his ability to slash to the basket should produce consistent offense. “Corey’s a great kid and a great, physical player,” Lopez said.

The coach expects big things from senior shooting guard Xavier Bernard, who is primed for a breakthrough after putting in countless hours of work during the offseason. It will be no surprise if he regularly scores in double digits. “He’s more focused and bound to contribute more,” Lopez said.

Senior Akeem Martelli is taking over responsibilities at the point after gaining valuable experience doing the same at the JV level, while junior twin guards Jeffrey and Jerry Voltaire, junior forward Derrick Dixon, and sophomore forward Andre Berry are also up from JV and ready to contribute.

The coach calls senior forward Ronald Spencer the team’s “Mr. Energy” who does all the little things not found in the boxscore. “He rebounds, defends and gets steals,” Lopez said. Junior Alton Kelly can present mismatches in the paint, and newcomer Anthony Moultrie, a senior, brings experience and solid all-around skills.

The Mules welcome Elmont, West Hempstead and John Adams to their annual Hank Williams Memorial Tournament Dec. 27 and 29.

Promising Lady Mules full of youth