On Jan. 6, Mineola High School proudly hosted its annual Mineola Community Basketball Night, celebrating school spirit, leadership and community pride.

The gym was filled wall to wall with families, friends and fans, creating an electric atmosphere as both the Mineola girls and boys varsity basketball teams faced off against Plainedge. The evening also supported year-end scholarship fundraisers, reinforcing the district’s commitment to student success beyond the court.

The first 150 attendees received commemorative wristbands and rally towels, while local youth basketball teams joined in the excitement from the stands. Adding to the spirited night, the Mineola Pep Band energized the crowd throughout the games, and the cheer team delivered an outstanding halftime performance. A special moment came when Penelope Buhler performed a beautiful rendition of the national anthem.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Mineola Basketball Leadership Awards to Ryan Manu and Julianna Plunkett. Both students were recognized for demonstrating outstanding leadership qualities on and off the basketball court.

Thank you, Ryan and Julianna, for your ongoing contributions to the Mineola community and for serving as role models for the future of Mineola Basketball, and thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate Mustangs pride with us! #MineolaProud