The Long Island Nets will host their annual Summer Fest at Jones Beach in Wantagh, with expanded programming aimed at engaging the Long Island community beyond basketball. Originally scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 23, the event has been postponed due to regional flooding, with a rescheduled date to be announced.
This year’s Summer Fest was set to take place at the basketball courts at Field 4 and included new additions such as a 5K Run Club and a Youth Dance Clinic, both free to the public.
Returning favorites included two Youth Basketball Clinics (priced at $25 each and requiring advance registration), appearances by the team’s mascot Dale the Eagle, basketball games, live music from a DJ, photo opportunities, and prize giveaways.
The dance clinic, led by the Long Island Nets Dance Team, was originally scheduled for 10 to 11 a.m. and open to youth ages 6–16. The basketball clinics cater to youth ages 5–17 and are part of the team’s broader community outreach programming.
“Summer Fest is rooted in the Long Island Nets’ commitment to building community and growing the game of basketball right here on Long Island,” said Morgan Taylor, vice president of business operations for both the New York Liberty and the Long Island Nets. “Summer is a key time for us — it’s when we’re out in the community the most, connecting with fans of all ages.”
“For the past three years, we’ve hosted events like this at Jones Beach, and this year we’re excited to expand on that tradition by bringing basketball and dance clinics, as well as a run club to the community,” Taylor said. “This year’s Summer Fest will offer even more opportunities for the community to get active, engage with our team, and celebrate together as we head into an exciting 2025-26 season, which will begin when we tip off on Nov. 7 at Nassau Coliseum.”
While the event is postponed, the organization’s mission remains unchanged. The Long Island Nets continue to prioritize community engagement across the region.
“The true highlight of Summer Fest is bringing the Long Island community together to close out the summer on a high note,” Taylor added. “Over the past few months, the Long Island Nets have been active across the region — from youth basketball camps and clinics to other community events — and Summer Fest is the culmination of all that energy and engagement.”
“Whether you've cheered us on at a Long Island Nets game, had a child take part in one of our clinics for kids ages 5–17, or you're simply curious about the team and how we’re showing up for Long Island, this event is an open invitation,” he said.
Summer Fest was also set to feature a Back-to-School Donation Drive, encouraging attendees to bring traditional school supplies to benefit students across Long Island. While the in-person event is delayed, the team plans to continue supporting this initiative.
“Summer Fest is not only a celebration of our community, it’s also a chance for us to give back,” said Taylor. “We’re proud to launch our Back-to-School Donation Drive to support students across Long Island as they prepare for the new school year. We’re encouraging all attendees to bring school supplies, and we’ll ensure these donations go to local youth who need them most. It’s one small way we can help set these students up for a strong, successful start to the year.”
Looking ahead, the Long Island Nets plan to build on the momentum of their summer outreach with more community clinics and camps this fall, continuing their mission to connect, inspire, and engage with fans and families across the region.
“As the Long Island Nets look forward to the upcoming NBA G League season, we’re thrilled to wrap up the summer alongside our incredible community,” Taylor said. “Summer Fest will be a fantastic celebration of all the meaningful connections and programs we’ve shared over the past few months. We’re proud of the impact we've made and look forward to continuing that momentum.”
A new date for Summer Fest will be announced soon. For updates, registration information, or to learn more about upcoming events, visit the team’s official site at https://longisland.gleague.nba.com.