The Islip boys and girls varsity basketball teams were well-represented at Suffolk County Basketball Media Day, hosted on Saturday, Nov. 22, at Sachem High School North. The event, the first of its kind in the county, gathered programs from across Section XI to preview the season, highlight standout players, and offer insight into the competitive landscape ahead.

Islip’s boys team was represented by Vincent Tyre, Andrew Wimmers, and Chase Herrington, three returning contributors expected to anchor the Buccaneers’ lineup this winter. On the girls' side, Rylee Moran, Reese Wallace, Teagan Rao, and Abigail Dieumegard attended, all key returners from last season’s impressive postseason run.

Boys varsity head coach Jamie Lynch expressed confidence in his returning core and the team’s ability to compete night in and night out.

“We bring back a pretty good nucleus of kids in terms of guys that were in the rotation last year," he said. "The expectations are high. I think it's going to be a well-balanced, deep league, but I think we’re going to be in every game and challenge to make the playoffs again.”

Girls varsity head coach Collin Smith echoed that sense of optimism, highlighting the program’s experience and chemistry heading into the new season.

“We have 11 seniors on the team this year, a good nucleus of kids coming off a very strong year last year," he said. "We’re looking to have fun, come together as a team, and get back to the championship again this year.”

Throughout media day, players and coaches gave interviews and posed for team photos, all while sharing insights on expectations, leadership, and the challenges ahead.

For the Buccaneers, the combination of veteran leadership, rising talent, and strong team culture has created high anticipation for the 2025–26 campaign. Both squads emerged from media day energized and ready to represent Islip with pride as the new season begins.