Amityville’s boys’ basketball team has been a powerhouse in Suffolk County basketball and finds itself in a tight race atop the League V standings.
While the formula for success remains unchanged, the ability to overcome adversity and consistently put in maximum effort is what sets them apart. “The key to our success has always been the same,” said head coach Jack Agostino. “Sticking together, staying focused, and giving our best effort on the court goes a long way.”
One of Amityville’s defining qualities is their resilience in the face of adversity. This was particularly evident in some of its recent games, where it faced significant challenges but refused to give up. In a matchup against Hauppauge on Jan. 8, the Warriors were trailing by a dozen at halftime. However, instead of letting the game slip away, the players rallied together, fought hard, and mounted a comeback to secure the 64-61 victory.
Similarly, in a nail-biting game against Wyandanch on Jan. 14, the Warriors fell behind again but showed their mettle, only to lose on a heart-wrenching buzzer-beater. “Our ability to deal with adversity is crucial,” Agostino said. “We have continued to bounce back so well.”
There are moments when some players need a little extra encouragement and that’s where the strength of their team chemistry really shines. “The highs and lows of each game are so unpredictable,” said Agostino. “But it’s about maintaining focus and lifting each other up.”
Whether it’s lifting up a teammate who’s struggling or staying focused when things aren’t going their way, Amityville’s success relies on its ability to stay united through thick and thin. The team enters this week 11-2 in League V and 12-5 overall.
Leading the way offensively is junior guard Amir Dickerson, who is tied for third in Suffolk County in points per game with 24.3. “His talent and versatility are such game changers for us,” said Agostino.
Alongside Dickerson, it’s the depth of the roster that makes the Warriors so dangerous. Sophomore guard Allen Dodson-Iasbell, junior guard Wes Flythe who is fresh off a 14-point performance in the win against Half Hollow Hills West on Feb. 1, senior guard DaJon Clinton, and junior forward Jordan Hines are all players who can take over a game at any moment.
“They each have the ability to score 20 points on any given night,” Agostino said. “They provide the kind of unpredictability that keeps our opponents on its toes at all times.”
Another key contributor is freshman forward Taki Mason, who Agostino calls the “heart and soul of the team.”
As the season progresses, the Warriors continue to demonstrate the values of perseverance, teamwork, and resilience. Though expectations have remained steady over the years, the goals are always high.
“Making the playoffs is a consistent goal,” Agostino said. “But we are now aiming for a league championship, which seems very possible if we play to our potential.”
However, Agostino knows the journey won’t be easy. “Winning the league is a long shot, but we’re focused on taking it one game at a time.”