Long Island Lutheran

Brookville, NY

NIBC

16 players

Program Scout Report

Overview

Long Island Lutheran stands as one of New York's premier prep basketball programs, consistently developing elite talent while maintaining strong academic standards. The Crusaders compete at the highest level of prep basketball in the NIBC, attracting top prospects from across the region and beyond.

Coaching Staff

John Buck serves dual roles as Head of School and Varsity Basketball Head Coach, bringing a unique perspective that balances athletic excellence with academic rigor. Having joined the LuHi faculty in 2007, Buck has built the program methodically over more than 15 years, previously serving as a Mathematics teacher and Ethics instructor before ascending to his current leadership positions.

Player Development

LuHi has established itself as a legitimate pipeline to high-major college basketball and professional levels, with a strong track record of player development across all positions. The program's ability to develop both highly-ranked recruits and under-the-radar prospects has made it a destination for players seeking to maximize their potential while maintaining academic focus.

Culture & Academics

The school environment emphasizes the scholar-athlete model, with Buck's background in academics ensuring players receive quality education alongside elite basketball training. LuHi's commitment to character development and ethics creates a well-rounded experience for student-athletes.

Recruiting Outlook

The current roster showcases exceptional depth and talent, headlined by rising stars Dylan Mingo and Moussa Kamissoko, along with high-profile recruit Kiyan Anthony. With multiple top-50 national prospects across different class years, including the Mingo brothers and Kayden Allen, LuHi appears positioned for sustained success and continued national relevance in prep basketball circles.

Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team

Coaching Staff

John Buck

Head Coach

Tenure: 22 years

John Buck serves as Head of School and Varsity Basketball Head Coach at Long Island Lutheran High School, where he joined the faculty in 2007. Initially working as a Mathematics teacher and Ethics instructor, Buck transitioned to head coach in 2010, taking over a program fresh off a state federation championship. Under his leadership, the Crusaders have captured four state titles, winning back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012, followed by victories in 2019 and 2023. Buck recently achieved a significant milestone, recording his 300th career coaching victory. He has established Long Island Lutheran as New York's premier Nike EYBL Scholastic team and built the program into a nine-time New York State champion. Buck's coaching philosophy centers on core values of integrity, respect, humility, passion, and resilience, which he instills in his players both on and off the court. His dual role as educator and coach allows him to mentor student-athletes holistically, developing their character alongside their basketball skills.