Nassau’s Best: Under the Radar Names

Baldwin's best is back for another year and it should be a good one. He's evolved from a deadly three point shooter into a complete scorer under Head Coach Darius Burton. His defense, passing, communication and decision making have all improved. While the area certainly has some talent Saint Jean is easily our early favorite for Nassau Public School Player of the Year.     Pnini has always been a gifted shooter since a youngster but now is expect to be the main scoring option for Roslyn. He has a great basketball IQ, he gets open, works hard off the ball and knocks it down when given space. His shooting has allowed him to develop his driving ability, he can absorb more contact, his confidence is sky high and he's coming off a big offseason. Expect fireworks from Pnini all year long and watch out for the Bulldogs.     Brake is the best quarterback on this list and he can also hoop. This dual sport athlete is projected to be back on the court for Plainview next season and expectations are high. His role and numbers should see a bump up especially during the winter months. Expect Plainview to rely on him a bunch and for him to be in the MVP conversation if the Hawks can go far.     The Vera twins Jaiya and Julian are set to take over Long Island this season. They play with relentless passion and energy plus never take any plays off. Their job is to create pressure and their hustle is non stop. Jaiya is a bit stronger on the glass, he's a physical finisher around the rim and is a very versatile defender. His lunch pale mentality helps boost the whole team, he can get a big stop, draws fouls and isn't afraid of the big moment.     Deutsch is a talented shot maker who's ready for another big time season with Jericho. He can heat up quickly, create off the dribble, score around the basket and loves the game. His work ethic has unlocked a new confidence, he's ready for even more on his plate and don't be surprised if he can get them on a deep playoff run.     FP had a huge run last year and while they graduated a lot of their offense they still have Murphy. He was a sparkplug for them during his Junior year and a serious offensive threat. Murphy will fit right in as the Knights main scoring option, they should run most of the offense through him and expect a lot of points. Love the upside, the skillset and he's an A++ kid off the court.     Mitchell is my sleeper for MVP this upcoming season in Nassau. This offseason got a chance to watch him multiple times with [program_tooltip program_id='2078609' first='New' last='Heights'] MHC and came away very impressed. His on ball defense can be elite, he's quick, makes the extra pass and knocks down threes. He can effect the game in multiple ways, he's scrappy, very coachable and the type of guard you want in your program.     The All County guard is back with the Marines after a terrific Junior campaign where he averaged over 14.5 points and 5 rebounds a game. Burns also is an impact player on the football field and uses that physicality on the hardwood. He can defend, he gets on the floor, loves to push the pace and is tough to score on. Expect his role, minutes, usage and numbers to all go up for his last chance at Long Island Championship.