There is no better way to kick off the basketball season than with the recognition of two LHS girls’ varsity basketball athletes on Newsday’s Top-100 List. Newsday’s chart spotlights outstanding players from the previous season, and to start off the ‘24-‘25 season on a high note, seniors, point guard Brooke Mazzei and forward Sophia Dwyer, were recognized for their achievements.
Newsday highlighted: “Mazzei gets easy buckets in transition and can score from anywhere. She also can guard the opponent’s best player. She missed some time because of injury, but she still led her team in every major statistical category.” Dwyer was described by Newsday as an “extremely versatile, quick [player], [who can] create matchup problems” for her opponents.
Mazzei is a four-year varsity player who was named All-County and Second Team All-State last year. She has committed to Temple University for next year to play lacrosse; however, basketball will always have a special place in her heart. “Basketball means so much to me,” Mazzei reflected. “I have been playing since I was in first grade. Every year, basketball season is the highlight of the year. I look forward to it every day and enjoy every minute of it,” she added.
Varsity basketball coach Koren Pena remarked, “Brooke is an explosive and dynamic player. She is, by far, one of the top players in our conference both offensively and defensively. She creates match-up problems for opposing teams with her speed and aggressive play. She’s so quick in the open court.” Pena added, “[Mazzei] is also a vocal leader in games and practices. As a point guard, she controls the tempo of the game and is called on to make many critical decisions. She is a positive and reliable teammate who demonstrates leadership every time she steps on the court.” A two-time Top-100 player, Mazzei was elated to have made the list again: “It feels amazing to be recognized on the list; I am very flattered. It feels great knowing that I have worked hard and improved enough to be recognized again.”
Dwyer is a three-year varsity player who was also named an All-County player last year. Pena shared, “[Dwyer] is very dynamic. She is tall and long and uses this to her advantage defensively and offensively. She is consistent and steady and does not rattle easily.” Pena praised Dwyer’s ability to score from virtually anywhere on the floor, calling her “extremely well-rounded and versatile.”
Dwyer’s basketball career has spanned many years so far: “Basketball has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I began playing when I was in fourth grade, and since then it has become more than just a sport to me. I have learned how to handle pressure, stay focused, and work hard for what I want, which I apply to my life both on and off the court.”
“To be recognized on this list honestly feels surreal. From barely playing my sophomore year to being named a Top-100 player my senior year, is just crazy to me. Over the years, I have put so much work and dedication into this sport so I can improve myself as a player, and I am so thankful it paid off; it is truly one of the greatest feelings and the best confidence booster,” Dwyer expressed.
Furthermore, Dwyer reflected that basketball has not only shaped her ability to handle pressure but has also helped her form strong bonds with her teammates. “Some of my strongest friendships started from basketball, and specifically with my team this year, it begins to feel as if they are my second family. This sport has impacted my life in the best way possible and helps me grow as a person and player every day,” she said.
Pena complimented the pair for their work ethic and dedication: “They are both driven, hard-working, and focused. They consistently demonstrate great leadership at practice and in games. I think it’s extremely deserving. They are both outstanding players. I’m grateful to have been part of their basketball journey. They are both very special athletes and young ladies, and I’m excited to see what this season has in store for them both.”
When asked what they would recommend to younger athletes to be successful, both Mazzei and Dwyer praised the importance of working hard and enjoying the game in the process. “I’d recommend [young athletes] find a sport they enjoy playing and mainly just have fun with it. If they truly love something and have goals set, I’d recommend working hard to achieve those goals,” Mazzei explained. Likewise, Dwyer suggested, “Whether it is practice or [a] game, give 110% so you never have to question if something could have gone differently and leave the court with a regret. Also, have fun, enjoy the game, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself.”
