Long Island Boys and Girls Basketball Stars Shine

Young athletes reach impressive milestones in high school sports

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Two standout basketball players from Long Island schools have achieved remarkable feats this season. Carter Abrahams, an eighth grader at Portledge, became the youngest player in New York state history to score 1,000 career points. Meanwhile, Samantha Hicks of Harborfields High School was named the Gatorade New York Girls Basketball Player of the Year.

Why it matters

These achievements by young athletes highlight the exceptional talent and dedication present in Long Island's high school sports programs. Abrahams' record-breaking performance as an eighth grader is a testament to his skills and the support he receives from his team and coaches. Hicks' Gatorade Player of the Year award recognizes her outstanding contributions to her team's success and her leadership on and off the court.

The details

Carter Abrahams, an eighth grader at Portledge School, reached the 1,000-point milestone in his career during a playoff game against Waldorf School on Monday. Abrahams scored 24 points in the game, becoming the youngest player in New York state history to achieve this feat. Meanwhile, Samantha Hicks of Harborfields High School was named the Gatorade New York Girls Basketball Player of the Year, recognizing her exceptional performance throughout the season.

  • Abrahams reached 1,000 career points on Monday, February 16, 2026, during the PSAA quarterfinal game against Waldorf.
  • Hicks was named the Gatorade New York Girls Basketball Player of the Year in 2026.

The players

Carter Abrahams

An eighth-grade basketball player at Portledge School who became the youngest player in New York state history to score 1,000 career points.

Samantha Hicks

A high school basketball player at Harborfields High School who was named the Gatorade New York Girls Basketball Player of the Year in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Abrahams is the first eighth grader in state history to reach the milestone.”

— Brandon Becker, Portledge School Basketball Coach (Newsday)

The takeaway

These remarkable achievements by young athletes on Long Island showcase the depth of talent and the strong support systems in place for high school sports programs in the region. Their success inspires other aspiring athletes to push the boundaries of what is possible and strive for excellence in their respective fields.