Overview

The Newport Harbor High boys’ basketball team secured a hard-fought victory against Cerritos, winning 51-47 in a CIF Southern Section Division 3A playoff game. The match showcased a strong start for Newport Harbor, but Cerritos mounted a significant comeback, making for a tense finish.

Key details

  • Newport Harbor led early in the game, establishing a 5-2 advantage with a three-pointer from Adam Gaa.
  • The Sailors were up by double digits at one point in the second half.
  • Cerritos tied the game at 42-42 with 4:37 remaining, thanks to a three-point play by sophomore guard Benson Cho.
  • Dash Bastedo was the standout player for Newport Harbor, scoring 16 points and grabbing six rebounds.
  • Newport Harbor finished the game with a record of 22-8.
  • Cerritos, despite their efforts, ended the game with a record of 14-16.
  • Newport Harbor's Riggs Guy and Jack Berry contributed crucial baskets during the final minutes of the game.
  • Cerritos faced challenges with foul trouble, resulting in key players Tobenna Ozoagu and Shay Pema fouling out late in the game.
  • The victory allows Newport Harbor to advance to the quarterfinals.
  • Newport Harbor will host Oakwood in the quarterfinals on Tuesday.
  • Oakwood holds a record of 19-8 and is the Liberty League champion.

Context

This playoff game was a critical matchup for both teams, highlighting the competitive nature of the CIF Southern Section Division 3A playoffs.

What happens next

Newport Harbor will prepare to host Oakwood in the upcoming quarterfinals, looking to build on their recent success against Cerritos.

What we don't know yet

Details about the specific date and time of the quarterfinal game against Oakwood have not been confirmed.