Back in 2024, Long Island Lutheran Girls Basketball made history when three players from the same roster were selected to the prestigious McDonald's All-American Game, a first on the girls' side. Kate Koval (LSU), Kayleigh Heckel (UConn), and Syla Swords (Michigan) set the standard and solidified LuHi in the record books.
Fast forward to 2026, and history has repeated itself once again under the leadership of Christina Raiti. For only the second time ever, the Crusaders placed three players on the McDonald's All-American roster: Olivia Jones (Vanderbilt), Emily McDonald (Kentucky), and Savannah Swords (Kentucky).
The trio proudly represented LuHi at the 2026 games during Sprite Jam Fest in Phoenix. Highlighting the week, Emily McDonald had a remarkable performance, earning the title of 3-point champion across both the boys and girls competitions, an incredible feat that showcased her elite shooting ability.
With their selections, Jones, McDonald, and Swords cement their place in history as All-Americans numbers 6, 7, and 8 in the program. They join an elite group that includes Celeste Taylor, Paris Clark, Koval, Swords, and Heckel, further solidifying the legacy of excellence for the Lady Crusaders under Coach Raiti.
LuHi continues to prove itself as a powerhouse in girls high school basketball, building a tradition that few programs in the country can match.