BROOKHAVEN, N.Y. — The Long Island Basketball Foundation (LIBF) will celebrate the remarkable legacy of one of Suffolk County’s most influential high school basketball coaches when it hosts the Coach Jim “Moose” McGowan Legacy Celebration & Fundraiser on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Painter’s Restaurant in Brookhaven.
The event, scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., will recognize Coach McGowan’s lifelong contributions to Long Island basketball while raising funds for two cornerstone LIBF initiatives: the Legacy Scholarship Program and Basketball History: The Docuseries.
Known affectionately throughout the basketball community as “Moose,” McGowan dedicated decades to developing student-athletes, building championship-caliber programs, and mentoring generations of young people whose lives extended far beyond the basketball court. His passion for the game, commitment to education, and lasting impact on countless families have made him one of Long Island’s most respected coaching figures.
The evening’s theme, “Building Legacies. Changing Lives.”, reflects the foundation’s mission to preserve the history of Long Island basketball while investing in its future.
Proceeds from the event will directly support the LIBF Legacy Scholarship Program, which provides financial assistance to deserving student-athletes pursuing higher education, and Basketball History: The Docuseries, an ambitious project documenting the players, coaches, teams, and defining moments that have shaped Long Island basketball for generations.
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a special silent auction featuring official, certified Jalen Brunson autographed memorabilia, highlighted by a signed “King of New York” basketball. Additional sports collectibles and exclusive auction items will be available, with proceeds benefiting the foundation’s educational and historical preservation efforts.
In addition to honoring Coach McGowan, the Long Island Basketball Foundation will recognize outstanding members of the local basketball community with Community Recognition Awards. This year’s honorees include Wes Correa of Bellport High School and The Alonzo Brothers of Longwood High School, whose dedication and contributions have positively impacted Long Island basketball.
The celebration will bring together former players, coaches, educators, alumni, community leaders, and basketball supporters for an evening dedicated to honoring the past while creating opportunities for the future.
The event will be held at Painter’s Restaurant, located at 416 South Country Road, Brookhaven, NY 11719, on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. A $50 suggested donation includes admission and light refreshments.
Community members are encouraged to attend, become sponsors, or make a donation in support of the Long Island Basketball Foundation’s mission of preserving the rich history of Long Island basketball while providing opportunities for the next generation of student-athletes.
Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and donations are available online at:
LIBF Coach Jim “Moose” McGowan Legacy Celebration Registration
Those unable to attend can still support the foundation’s mission by making a tax-deductible contribution through the event registration page. Every dollar raised helps fund scholarships for deserving students and ensures that the stories of Long Island basketball’s greatest coaches, players, and programs continue to inspire generations to come.
