2023 Level Up LI 16u Player Profiles
Level Up LI is in its 6th year and is one of the fastest growing youth travel AAU basketball programs in the tri-state NY area. Their mission is to create the top travel basketball teams focusing heavily on individual and team development for their players both on and off the basketball court. The primary focus is to help their players reach their full potential. ALL of their coaches and trainers excelled at the college level as players or coaches.
Their 16u team is coached by Chris Montalbano
and his roster is profiled below:
Ben Gruberger (2025) 5’8 guard, Plainview High- A knockdown shooter with range that rivals any high school player. He does what it takes to win, a prime example being his pride on being the team leader in charges every season. His energy is contagious to his teammates, and a pleasure to coach as well.
Tommy Petrsoric (2025) 6’3 wing, Plainview High - A do it all point-forward. His size and frame suit him well with his dynamic skill set. He can shoot from anywhere off the catch and off the dribble. However, his best attribute is his top notch court vision. Good luck playing zone against this kid cause he will hit the open man every time and make you pay.
Dominic Sciandra (2025) 5’9 guard, Plainview High - A quick and sturdy guard that plays with a chip on his shoulder. His much improved jump shot is gonna be a problem for players trying to stop him from getting by them. He is always looking to get his teammates involved after he beats the 1st level of the defense, and does a great job of it. A great defender as well.
Ryan Mittasch (2025) 5’10 guard, Plainview High - Mittasch is an absolute dog on the defensive end of the floor. Quick feet, good instincts, and a tenacity that is unmatched. The type of player that you can rely on to limit a teams best opposing guard. Offensively, Ryan is a smart guard that is continuing to expand his skillset and remains a threat at all times going to the rack strong.
Zach Worth (2025) 5’10 guard, Plainview High - A guard that can score on all 3 levels offensively. It starts with his shot though. Other teams have to take note of where Zach is on the floor at all times. Always does a great job of attacking bad close outs and utilizing his pull up or floater to score.
Evan Irushalmi (2025) 6’2 wing, Plainview High - Evan is a beast on the glass and always seems to be in the right spot, not just for rebounds but for teammates to hit him around the rim. Incredibly smart player, and disciplined on both ends of the floor. Does so many things for his team that don’t show up on the stat sheet. Excellent finisher and passer. Highly effective player against zones.
Tyler Brahe (2025) 6’2 wing, Port Washington High - Tyler is a knockdown shooter, with good size and a high IQ. Always asks questions and strives to get better. His driving and finishing ability is much improved. He does a great job of moving the ball and feeding his teammates in their preferred spots. Excited to see him showcase his skillset this season.
Jake Vanderputten (2025) 6’4 wing, Port Washington High - An athletic wing with a great frame that works harder than anybody on the court on both ends of the floor. His driving ability and touch around the rim make him a threat at all times. He’s too big for guards and too quick for bigs to guard him. Can guard positions 1-5 with ease.
John Osorno (2025) 6’5 center, Hicksville High - Osorno has great size and touch around the rim. Fantastic in PnR situations. Very skilled passer/playmaker out of the post. Easily one of the most coachable kids I’ve had yet, always locked in and is hungry to learn. His shot has been developing well. A true team player that does what is needed to win. Always communicating and disciplined on defense.
Kevin Gutfleisch (2025) 6’1 guard, Wantagh High - Kevin is a crafty guard with an abundance of moves. Doesn’t waste time nor dribbles and drives with a purpose to get a bucket or create for his teammates. Can knock down shots off the catch and off the dribble. Plays with the utmost confidence and tenacity every time he steps on the court.
Christian Shaw (2025) 6’2 wing, Chaminade High - Shaw is an athletic play maker with a high IQ. Can guard positions 1-3 comfortably and plays great team defense. A tough/aggressive driver to the basket, and a threat from the perimeter. Truly the whole package, every team could use a player like Christian.