Brooksville resident Ethan Bergantino, a former point guard at Calvary Christian High in Clearwater, has signed with the Division I University of North Florida to play college basketball next season. Bergantino’s journey to this point was not without challenges. On January 14, 2025, during a game at Mitchell High School, he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee, which required reconstructive surgery in February 2025.
Bergantino, the youngest of five brothers who all played high school basketball in Hernando County, initially played for Central High School in Brooksville before transferring to Calvary Christian High. Despite the setback, he worked through months of rehab and had a standout senior season. The University of North Florida had previously recruited him, and after his injury, they continued to show interest, ultimately offering him a spot on their team.
Bergantino expressed his gratitude and excitement about the opportunity, saying, “I’m going to be away from my hometown which is going to be a little bit weird, but I feel great. The Lord’s directing me in the right path I think and I’m happy about it.” He added that his injury and subsequent rehab taught him to appreciate the game more and showed him the true love for basketball.
Bergantino’s brothers, Talon and Caden, also played for Central High School in Brooksville. His two oldest brothers, Tyler and Cody, played at Nature Coast. As a freshman with Central, Bergantino averaged 6.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.7 steals.
Originally reported by Hernando Sun
Sources: Hernando Sun
