In a thrilling City Section Open Division semifinal, Tajh Ariza's impressive backward three-pointer helped No. 2-seeded Westchester win against Cleveland, 68-57, propelling them to the finals against top-seeded Chatsworth. Despite foul trouble early in the game, Ariza managed to score 20 points, igniting his team alongside fellow player Patrick Ramos. Westchester aims for its 16th title, while Chatsworth seeks to replicate their earlier season victory over them. The championship game promises to be an exciting showdown between the two top teams.
With his team clinging to a seven-point lead and the 35-second shot-clock about to expire, Tajh Ariza, while falling backwards, released a shot from the right baseline that only could be seen in a game of H-O-R-S-E."That's a playground shot," his Westchester teammate, Jordan Ballard, said.
Ariza, a 6-foot-9 junior, picked up three fouls in the first quarter and sat for most of the second quarter. He gained traction with a three-point play in the third quarter to ignite the Comets.
For months, Chatsworth and Westchester have been the favorites to face off in the championship. It will be a rematch from Westchester's opening game of the season, won by Chatsworth 59-55.
Arenas scored 31 points and got contributions from his teammates against Palisades. Taj Unuakhalu picked up 21 rebounds. CJ Gore and Tekeio Phillips each scored 13 points.
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