Amongst the much chatter that us high school sports fans like to engage in, there’s a question that’s presented often on the sidelines and in the stands of sports events on Long Island. We often see stand out players amongst us and ask each other, “Why aren’t kids here committing to big time schools?” The answers, opinions, and real reasons usually vary, while one thing remains absolutely true. When a Long Island kid does commit to any school, but especially a school like this one – we should make it a point to proudly celebrate them.
This past Tuesday morning, Dylan Mingo announced his commitment to the University of North Carolina (UNC) live on ESPN. Mingo is from Farmingdale where he attended school and played basketball until the 8th grade. Dylan now attends the high school basketball powerhouse, Lutheran Highschool (LuHi) in Upper Brookville, where he’s about to close out his senior year. At this time next year Mingo will have “Tar heel blue” on, while we watch him play basketball on prime-time television. He’s headed to the big stage and has worked for every ounce of success he’s experiencing.
Dylan Mingo is an elite basketball guard who is known for his 6’5″ frame and unique versatility. The Mingo family is well-known and respected amongst the Long Island basketball circuit. Dylan developed alongside his older brother, Kayden Mingo, who is currently playing for Penn State University. Their oldest brother Dalique, who has trained top notch players all over the island, has also played a central role in his brother’s basketball success both on and off the court.
Dylan, who was named MVP of the 2025 NBPA Top 100 Camp is one of the nation’s most recruited players. Described as a 6’5″, 190-pound versatile combo guard with a high basketball IQ and strong defensive skills. In the past year he’s had offers from other major programs such as Alabama, UConn, Miami, and Washington. Amongst over a dozen other schools that expressed interest having Mingo run their offense.
On ESPN Tuesday morning, Dylan was asked why he ultimately chose North Carolina as his landing place.
“I chose UNC because it felt like a family environment, from the players, fans, to the coaches. I felt like the UNC history and everyone who played there is huge. Knowing their will to win is always at the highest level. I would love to be a part of that.”
While Dylan’s senior year at LuHi has had a few bumps in the road due to some recent ankle injuries, Mingo’s road certainly isn’t stopping here. He’s ultimately leaving Farmingdale this summer to head up to Chapel Hill, where some of the basketball greats and greatest college teams we’ve ever seen have played this sport.
Congratulations Dylan and to the entire Mingo family. Keep making us on Long Island proud!
