Coaches

Coach Julian Kleisler started his high school basketball career at Babylon High School. He played Varsity for 3 years where he was a highly valued player known for his work ethic and high energy. After high school he continued his passion for basketball and began mentoring as an Assistant Coach for D2 NYIT.  Coach Julian’s performance helped his players and coaching staff lead NY Tech to make the playoffs for the first time in 11 years. He has extensive experience working with athletes in helping them further develop their skills, basketball IQ and overall love for the game. He is currently in his third year in the architecture program at NYIT and is expecting to graduate in the spring of 2024.

Coach Kevin Meilella started his basketball career at Kellenberg Memorial High School. He was 2-year starter and led his team to the playoffs both years. After high school, Kevin played at Mount Saint Mary College where he was a 3-year starter and he qualified as a 4-year Skyline Honor Roll player. In his sophomore year Kevin was named MSMC Most Improved Player. Coach Milella’s senior year was full of accomplishments finishing the season with the best record in school history, scoring his 1,000th point and becoming an ECAC champion for the first time in school history. He continued his love and passion for basketball after graduation by becoming a coach and a referee and is excited to be a part of the Level Up LI organization.

Coach Chris Montalbano started his basketball career at Division Avenue High School where he was a 2-year starter who led the team in assists. His playing career was cut short due to serious injury. As a result he focused on learning more about the game as a trainer and coach. He graduated from Hofstra University. Most recently he interned with 90.10 Basketball Training in Lawrence, Kansas. There he got to work with many college players and top high school prospects. Chris also attended TPG Scout School led by Adam Filippi, the Director of Pro Scouting for the Sacramento Kings and completed the online Scouting Program. He has also attended several online seminars with world renowned trainer Drew Hanlen. Currently, Chris is the Head JV Basketball Coach at Smithtown High School.

Coach Brian Hutchinson started his basketball career at Elmont Memorial High School. He played Varsity all 4 years and received All-County and All-Long Island awards and won a conference championship in his Junior year. After high school he went on to play Division 2 basketball at Molloy College where he started as a freshman and played all 4 years. While at Molloy he earned All-Metropolitan, Preseason Player of the year, All-Conference and scored over 1,000 points in his career.