LACS Open Finals Preview: Fairfax vs Westchester
Los Angeles, CA – For years, Fairfax and Westchester always battled for the keys to the city. Westchester has fielded future NBA players such as Trevor Ariza, Gabe Pruitt, Bobby Brown, and Fairfax has had its own share of NBA…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingLos Angeles, CA – For years, Fairfax and Westchester always battled for the keys to the city. Westchester has fielded future NBA players such as Trevor Ariza, Gabe Pruitt, Bobby Brown, and Fairfax has had its own share of NBA alum such as Craig Smith, and Chris Mills. On Saturday, the two teams will once again be pitted against each other, this time for the title of LA City Open Section Champions.
The Comets, coached by legendary Ed Azzam, make the title game after defeating King Drew 56-44. They will be depending on the shooting of TJ Wainwright and Jojo Johnson who both scored 16 pts in the semifinal victory. The Lions, coached by Reggie Morris, defeated Birmingham 58-39 to advance. Keith Dinwiddie and DJ Dudley usually pack the scoring punch for the team.
Here are “other” key players to watch for both teams:
Fairfax
Barry Wilds (5’11” 2021) A versatile player who can play many positions, Wilds has shown that he can be a contributor on the big stage. Wilds has demonstrated that he can hit the outside shot, and attack the rim when needed. When Dinwiddie or Dudley go to the bench, Wilds instantly fills in and is productive. He has also been asked to guard and stay in front of scorers which he has done a good job of the whole season.
Justyn Hunter (6’0″ 2020) A hard working guard who leaves it all on the floor. Hunter is one of the leaders of Reggie Morris’ squad who sets the tone for his teammates. He hustles, goes after loose balls, and does all the things that do not show up in a stat sheet. Having a gritty player like Hunter is beneficial as he can help in many aspects of the game. Hunter has a high work ethic and can defend both wings and guards.
Justin Gladney (5’11” 2020) The theme for Fairfax is their versatile rotation and Gladney is another player who fits the mold. Like Wilds and Hunter, he can guard and play the 1-3 positions. After scoring 24 pts the week before, Gladney continued his hot hand with 18 pts against Birmingham. The lefty can get to the hole in many ways, and also can shoot the 3 if left open. He has some sneaky moves in his bag of tricks and isn’t afraid to use his creativity when needed.
Westchester
Kymani Pollard (6’1″ 2020) Pollard is a senior guard who brings outside shooting to the Comets. He’s a senior guard who is also quick and has a good understanding of the game. He scores both with his outside shot and also slashing to the rim with layups and floaters. Pollard has been consistent in putting up double digit scoring all season long. If Wainwright and Johnson’s shots are falling, Pollard’s additional scoring will be a huge boost for the team.
Marland Harris (6’9″ 2020) Harris will have the huge size advantage inside against the Lions. Harris’ height and big frame will be unmatched as Fairfax has no player over 6’5″. The Westchester big man will also have the athleticism advantage. For the Comets to pull this one, Harris will have to establish himself on the boards and in the paint. His potential to score inside might be the difference maker for Westchester to finally pull one off against Fairfax this season.