Baldwin Basketball Teams Gear Up for Promising 2025-26 Season

The Baldwin Bruins are set to make waves this basketball season as both the girls’ and boys’ teams showcase exceptional talent and determination. Following commendable performances last season, where the girls clinched a state title and the boys celebrated their Long Island championship victory, expectations are high.

Leadership and Team Bonding: A Winning Formula

“Every day, we talk about going back-to-back,” said senior forward Leah Williams. Her perspective emphasizes the importance of preparation, explaining, “Last year definitely taught me that it starts right now. It doesn’t start in March.” The key to the girls’ success was their emphasis on senior leadership, which contributed significantly to their thrilling 50-48 victory against Aquinas Institute of Rochester.

Key Highlights:

• Building Connections: Williams highlighted how team chemistry played a pivotal role in their triumph. “The seniors became my best friends,” she noted, underlining the support system that developed both on and off the court.
• Keeping it Fun: Guard Alyssa Polonia also spoke about the relaxed atmosphere that fostered enjoyment while staying competitive. “It didn’t feel too serious; they kind of took the pressure off,” she shared.

Mentorship for the New Generation

Now that they have tasted success, Williams and Polonia are eager to mentor the next generation of Lady Bruins. They recognize that younger players require guidance and support to adapt to the fast-paced nature of high school basketball.

• Empowerment: Polonia emphasized, “I feel like they kind of need that somebody just to push them and keep them going.”
• Experience Sharing: Williams added, “We’re just talking about our experience and what we had to go through.”

The Boys’ Quest for a State Title

The boys’ team is motivated by their female counterparts’ achievements as they pursue their first New York State title. Junior guard Mical St. Jean remarked, “I think them wearing the state championship motivates us even more.”

Key Highlights:

• Learning from Experience: After winning the Long Island Championship last season, the boys faced a disappointing early exit in the state regionals, losing to Tappan Zee. Senior center Gabriel Phillips stated, “Now we know what to expect because that was our first time being there as a team.”
• Injury Challenges: With Phillips sidelined due to a torn ACL, his presence remains pivotal. He aims to guide younger players from the bench, ensuring they are prepared to face challenges head-on.

Coaching Excellence

Longtime boys’ basketball coach Darius Burton is pivotal in shaping the team’s ambitions. Known for his motivational techniques, Burton wears an oversized Long Island championship ring—a symbol of the ultimate prize. “I want them to know that’s the ultimate prize. Not a day goes by that they don’t see me have it on at practice and at games,” he stated.

Why It Matters:

• Visual Motivation: The ring serves as a constant reminder of success, spurring players like St. Jean into action. He said, “Going back-to-back on Long Island, that is the goal — and then some more.”

The Road Ahead

As the Baldwin Bruins approach the start of the 2025-26 season, the combination of leadership, mentorship, and a competitive spirit positions both teams as formidable contenders. They are not only looking to build on last year’s success but also to create a legacy for future Bruins who aspire for greatness in high school basketball.

For more on Baldwin basketball and the latest updates, visit Nassau School Sports.

By fostering an environment of collaboration and support, Baldwin’s basketball teams are setting the stage for continued success on the court. With their sights firmly set on their goals, fans can expect an exhilarating season ahead.