There’s something truly special about this Brentwood basketball team. Just two years after a tough 2-17 season, they turned things around to become an undefeated regular-season Suffolk County Championship team.

What led to this incredible transformation? Here’s the secret: staying together and believing in each other.

I’ve witnessed the struggles—turnovers that were tough to watch, shots that missed by a mile, and those heartbreaking “almost” games. But through it all, one thing remained constant: the girls never gave up and never turned on each other. It wasn’t just about caring—it was about caring for each other more.

With every success story, there’s a team working behind the scenes to make it happen. In Brentwood, that team is the #WoodNation. It’s not an organization—it’s the Brentwood community. Teachers, family members, coaches, and alumni all coming together to support something bigger than basketball.

I want to take a moment to shout out a few people who have played a huge role in shaping this journey.

First, John Rueb—a dedicated janitor from Brentwood who went above and beyond. When hardly anyone paid attention to the girls’ basketball program (myself included, lol), he took it upon himself to make a difference. He started the LI Storm girls’ travel program and the Brentwood Basketball Developmental League (BDL), providing an affordable outlet for young athletes. His efforts didn’t just impact the girls—his programs inspired me to start the boys’ division and motivated others in the community to launch the Brentwood Cheer and Football (BCF) organization, which has now expanded to include cheer, football, softball, baseball, and most recently, a new basketball program.

Next, a big shoutout to Coach Harrison, who not only coached my eldest daughter but is now coaching my youngest through his RTG (Respect The Game Basketball) travel program. He has provided Brentwood girls with an opportunity to stay together, gain valuable game experience, and continue developing their skills.

Then there’s the GOAT, Jerry Powell. Two years ago, he saw potential in my daughter and made a bold statement: “I’m going to turn Angelina into one of the top guards on the Island, and if she stays the course, she’s going to college for free.” His dedication has been incredible to witness.

Last but certainly not least, I have to recognize the Brentwood Girls’ coaching staff. They saw something in Angelina early, pulling her up to JV in 8th grade and challenging her to rise to the occasion. Huge thanks to Coach Seeberger, Coach Malik Jackson, Coach McGuire, and, of course, Coach Greene for believing in these girls and in our community, staying committed to their growth, and instilling trust every step of the way.

The rest is history—you all know how it goes. Wins bring support, and support leads to history being made once again in Brentwood. The last time Brentwood reached the Section XI finals was 29 years ago. But this time, this unassuming championship team didn’t just make it back—they finished the job. They cemented their place in Brentwood history by not only winning but doing it in spectacular fashion, going UNDEFEATED in league play.

Congratulations to the 2024-25 League Champions! Come out to Farmingdale State College and cheer on the Brentwood (21-2) basketball team as they take on the back-to-back Nassau champions, Syosset (20-3), in the Long Island Class AAA Championship/Southeast Regional Final. Tip-off is at 6 p.m. this Saturday—don’t miss it!

Commemorate the girls accomplishment buy getting your limited edition präps/Brentwood Girls basketball collab T-shirt.Where a portion of the proceeds go back to the Brentwood program.

Text or call 631-671-4285 to order shirts