UPDATE: Staten Island’s high school basketball landscape is undergoing significant changes as the 2024-25 season approaches, putting pressure on local CHSAA teams. With four squads—Monsignor Farrell, Moore Catholic, St. Joseph by-the-Sea, and St. Peter’s—competing in the **CHSAA A Division**, the stakes are higher than ever for these teams.
As teams gear up for the upcoming season, they face a challenging schedule that limits their opportunities for non-league games. The **CHSAA A Division** now consists of **10 teams**, and each squad will play **18 league games**, mirroring the old SIHSL format. This leaves teams with only **two available games** for holiday tournaments or non-league matchups, a significant change from previous seasons.
In an effort to maintain the integrity of the **SIHSL Tournament**, teams are required to compete against city opponents during the regular season to qualify for playoffs, drastically altering their traditional schedules. The implications are clear—coaches will have to strategize carefully to navigate this intense competition.
Coach **Danny Fisher** of Monsignor Farrell, in his first season, emphasized the importance of strong leadership from players like **JJ Yates** and **Matt Scalisi**, who are expected to step up as the Lions aim for success. Yates, a three-year starter, was the team’s leading scorer with **14.3 points per game** last season, while Scalisi brings crucial experience as the point guard.
“They’re the heart and soul of our team,” said Fisher. “We’re expecting them to lead both on and off the court.”
Meanwhile, at Moore Catholic, new head coach **Todd Byrnes** is instilling a winning mentality after taking over from his father. With returning players like **Nick DeGrado**, who averaged **14.5 points per game** last season, the Mavericks are poised for a competitive run. Byrnes noted, “Their mentality is anything less than winning is unacceptable.”
St. Joseph by-the-Sea, under veteran coach **Mike Cortese**, will rely on junior **Nick Rebracca**, a standout shooter with added height, to lead the Vikings. After last year’s success, Cortese faces the challenge of integrating a young team and commented on the potential for growth, stating, “Expect to see a variety of styles on the court this season.”
Last but not least, **St. Peter’s**, the defending **SIHSL champions**, are feeling the impact of graduation, losing key players but still aiming for a strong season under coach **Ryan Woods**. With seniors like **Nico Parlanti** stepping into leadership roles, the Eagles look to maintain their competitive edge.
As the season unfolds, the urgency remains high for Staten Island basketball teams. With limited non-league opportunities and fierce competition within the **CHSAA A Division**, these teams are gearing up for a season that promises to be both thrilling and challenging.
The **2024-25 season** kicks off soon, and all eyes will be on how these changes affect the teams and their paths to the playoffs. Fans can expect fierce rivalries and a showcase of talent as the squads battle for supremacy on the court.
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth coverage as the season progresses!
