Former WNBA guard Samantha Prahalis-Holmes opened the doors of a complimentary two‑day basketball clinic in Hauppauge this weekend, inviting dozens of girls to sharpen their skills on the court. The event, held at a local community center, marks the first step in her transition from professional play to mentorship, as she seeks to nurture the next generation of female athletes on Long Island.
A Community‑Driven Initiative
Now serving as the head coach of the girls’ basketball program at The Stony Brook School, Prahalis-Holmes brings a deep reservoir of experience from a distinguished playing career that included a standout tenure at Ohio State and a sixth‑overall pick in the 2012 WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury. Her historic collegiate numbers — 2,000 points and 901 assists — place her among the elite in NCAA history, a legacy she now hopes to translate into everyday coaching.
The clinic’s curriculum blends fundamentals with fun, featuring stations on passing, shooting, dribbling and the three‑man weave drill. Each session is designed not only to improve technique but also to foster teamwork and confidence among participants, many of whom travel from neighboring towns such as Commack to attend.
Parents have praised the initiative for keeping children engaged away from screens and for creating a supportive environment where youngsters can connect with peers. Michael Pelan, athletic director at Malverne, highlighted Prahalis-Holmes’s dedication and loyalty, noting that "her commitment goes beyond the court; she’s building a lasting pipeline for girls’ basketball on Long Island."
With around 30 kids already registered and the turnout reflecting the growing interest in girls’ basketball across the region, Prahalis-Holmes plans to continue the free clinics as a permanent fixture. She sees each session as a personal way of giving back to the community that supported her own journey from Ohio to the professional ranks.