After years of training, workouts, AAU tournaments, showcases and varsity seasons, one of the best basketball players in Floral Park history has made her big decision.

Kaela Hilaire is headed to the state’s capital city to play for SUNY Albany.

The senior point guard officially signed her National Letter of Intent on Wednesday, November 11. She selected the Great Danes over Indiana University, Florida Atlantic and Towson.

“It’s a relief and a big weight off of my shoulders,” said Hilaire, who will be completing her sixth year as a varsity basketball player this year.

Hilaire has already amassed quite an athletic resume. In 7th grade, she was named to the All-Conference team and in 8th grade she earned All-County honors. After spending her freshman year at Long Island Lutheran, Hilaire returned to Floral Park and received the small schools’ Player of the Year award for Nassau County as a sophomore. She was also named second-team All Long Island by Newsday. Last year, Hilaire repeated as Player of the Year for Nassau County small schools, second-team All Long Island, and added second-team Class A New York State to her accomplishments.

“Kaela is incredibly talented,” said coach Mike Spina, who attended the signing day ceremony at Floral Park Memorial. “She is so unselfish on the court. But she is also a great person off the court. I am so proud of all of her achievements. I just hope to enjoy every minute of this final season. Albany is getting a very special player.”

After two appearances in the Nassau County Class A semifinals, both Hilaire and Spina have high expectations for the upcoming season.

“I’m just excited that my decision is over and I can focus on the season,” said Hilaire.

Several factors contributed to Hilaire’s decision to attend Albany. She liked the program’s recent winning seasons and proximity to home. Many friends and family were in attendance for the signing.

“They have made the tournament for the last three years,” said Hilaire, another reason why Hilaire was drawn to the Albany program.

“Kaela is an amazing individual who is not just an extraordinary athlete, but also an extraordinary individual,” said Dr. Sottile, principal of Floral Park Memorial. “She has a sound moral compass, and is the epitome of the Floral Park student-athlete.”