With buzzing gyms, the 2026 Manhattan Beach Youth Basketball season tipped off in early January, launching another exciting year of community competition. The volunteer-run recreational league welcomes boys and girls from kindergarten to 12th grade, giving players an opportunity to compete and stay connected on the court.
This year, MBYB features 14 Costa athletic complex, with teams both managed and coached by students. One of those coaches is Benny Stillman, a junior at Costa who helps lead Costa’s team Island Elite.
“I enjoy coaching a team in
MBYB because it allows me to cultivate team culture within a competitive environment,” said Stillman. “I find it rewarding to mentor athletes.”
For many players, MBYB provides a way to play organized basketball alongside friends without the pressure of a highly competitive season. Senior Cade Lagerwey returned this season after spending time away from the sport, using the league as a way to reconnect during his final year.
“I haven’t played basketball in a long time, so being able to come back my senior year and just play with my friends has been fun,” said Lagerwey.”
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