News Summary
The Long Island Lutheran High School basketball program has made a name for itself nationally under coach John Buck. With four state championships and a commitment to excellence, LUHI is recognized as a powerhouse in high school basketball. Buck, a former player and now coach, has cultivated a culture of success, producing notable NBA talent. The school recently expanded its varsity program, further proving its strength and commitment to developing athletes. As the team continues to shine and gain recognition, the future looks bright for LUHI basketball.
Long Island Lutheran High School Basketball Shines Bright on the National Stage
In the vibrant community of Long Island, excitement is buzz-worthy as the Long Island Lutheran High School (LUHI) basketball program continues to soar to new heights. Under the expert guidance of coach John Buck, the team has secured its status among the elite basketball programs—not just in New York but across the entire nation!
A Local Star Comes Home
Coach Buck isn’t just any coach; he’s a former LUHI player who knows the ropes inside and out. Hailing from Westbury, Buck began his basketball journey at LUHI, where he spent three memorable years on the varsity team. His talent took him to Wake Forest University, where he had the incredible opportunity to play alongside future NBA stars like Josh Howard and Chris Paul. He even served as co-captain in his senior year, showcasing his leadership skills on and off the court.
Graduating in 2006 with a degree in economics, Buck made a triumphant return to his alma mater as an assistant coach. It didn’t take long for him to rise through the ranks—by 2010, he was the head coach, stepping in after LUHI clinched the state federation championship. Since then, the program has taken off!
Championship Legacy
Since assuming the head coach role, Buck has led LUHI to remarkable success, netting four state championships in 2011, 2012, 2019, and most recently, 2023. Each victory has cemented LUHI’s reputation as a powerhouse in high school basketball.
In a transformative leap, LUHI joined the National Interscholastic Basketball Conference in 2022. This move has significantly elevated their competitive profile, exposing them to tougher opponents and enriching the experience for both players and fans alike.
A Proven Track Record of Producing NBA Talent
Coach Buck has a notable talent for nurturing players who transition into professional basketball. He coached the likes of Tobias Harris, who’s made quite a name for himself in the NBA, and VJ Edgecombe, who made waves as the third overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Edgecombe played a crucial role in leading LUHI to their latest championship before heading to the pros.
The team’s success doesn’t stop there! Due to an overwhelming interest, LUHI has now established a second varsity basketball team. This squad recently captured the championship title in the Private School Athletic Association League, proving that talent is blooming all over LUHI.
Spotlight on Next-Gen Stars
The LUHI basketball family has produced stars from various backgrounds. One standout was Kiyan Anthony, the son of basketball legend Carmelo Anthony, who recently graduated and made a commitment to Syracuse University. Last season, Anthony spearheaded an incredible 18-game winning streak for LUHI, earning MVP honors during a showcase tournament that gathered players from around the region.
We can’t help but notice that LUHI’s basketball program is evolving and adapting, with coach Buck acknowledging that success is a continuous path of growth. As they look toward the future, the excitement around LUHI’s basketball program only builds. The reputation for excellence and shining on the national stage ensures this will not be the last we hear of their phenomenal achievements.
The Future Looks Bright
In short, the Long Island Lutheran High School basketball program stands as a testament to hard work, talent, and community pride. As they build on their history, the sky’s the limit for this dynamic team! With Coach John Buck at the helm, there’s no question that LUHI will continue to inspire young athletes and reignite the love for basketball throughout the community.
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Additional Resources
- Newsday: Long Island Lutheran Kiyan Anthony
- Wikipedia: Long Island Lutheran
- Newsday: Kayden Dylan Mingo
- Google Search: Long Island Lutheran Basketball
- PIX11: LUHI Seeks National Title
- Google Scholar: LUHI Basketball
- Newsday: Boys Basketball First Team 2023
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School Basketball
- Sportskeeda: Kiyan Anthony Tribute
- Google News: Kiyan Anthony