Plainfield late surge defeats Ridgewood in Group IV Semis

Plainfield Cardinals Power Through with 16-7 Run to Reach NJ State Finals. Plainfield NaJai Hines Shines, [player_tooltip player_id='1411405' first='Johnny' last='Jackson']'s 2,000-Point Milestone Highlights Emotional Final Game.    Hines dominated the Group 4 Semifinals with 20 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter. A clutch performer. A traditional big man, he controls the paint with his back-to-the-basket play, strong footwork, and defensive presence. His agility and athleticism, honed from being a highly recruited Division 1 football prospect. Matchup nightmare on both ends. Returning to Plainfield from North Carolina, he has quickly established himself as a key force in their success. Hines impacts the game in every facet.     [player_tooltip player_id='1411405' first='Johnny' last='Jackson'] is a shoot-first point guard. Amassed over 2,000 career points, making him one of New Jersey's top scorers. His resilience is unmatched, playing the entire season while battling Stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma without missing a game. A confident ball handler with a high basketball IQ. he thrives under pressure and can create his own shot from anywhere on the floor. His toughness and work ethic make him an inspiring figure, both on and off the court. Aspirations to walk on at UConn under Dan Hurley, Jackson is determined to prove he belongs at the next level.     [player_tooltip player_id='2344521' first='Micah' last='Gordon'], Plainfield's point guard and the coach's son, plays with a high basketball IQ and leadership beyond his years. As a sophomore, he eclipsed the 1,000-point milestone, showcasing his scoring ability. He controls the game with smart decision-making. Strong drive to the basket, and the ability to knock down the three. Defensively, he's a tough on-ball defender who disrupts opposing guards. An extension of the coach on the floor, Gordon's composure and skill set make him a key leader for Plainfield.     Tylor Hunter is a gritty, hard-nosed player who thrives on defense and rebounding. With a wiry frame, he battles underneath the basket, bringing toughness and energy to every possession. While his primary impact comes on the defensive end, he can step up and score when needed. His high basketball IQ allows him to adapt and fill any role required by his team. A relentless competitor, Hunter's ability to do the dirty work makes him an invaluable asset on the court.     [player_tooltip player_id='2628254' first='Sebastian' last='Rogers'] is a strong presence around the basket. Finishing well at the rim and controlling the glass as a reliable rebounder. His toughness on defense makes him a key asset in protecting the paint. He has a good feel for the game, distributing the ball effectively from the post to the wings. Rogers' ability to play physically while making smart decisions adds versatility to his team. His combination of rebounding, defense, and playmaking makes him a valuable all-around contributor.     [player_tooltip player_id='2342647' first='Rashawn' last='Williams'] is a tough, physical defender. Strong, imposing body that allows him to dominate both ends of the court. He can guard all 94 feet, pressuring opponents full-court with relentless energy. Known for doing the "dirty work," Williams excels at setting screens, crashing the boards, and playing gritty defense. When NaJai Hines needs a break, he steps in at center, providing valuable minutes and maintaining the team's defensive intensity. His versatility and tenacity make him an essential role player for Plainfield.     Player Name] is a hard-nosed off-guard for Ridgewood High School. Provides strong leadership on the floor with his gritty, competitive play. He thrives on the wings, using his quickness to penetrate to the hoop. Unafraid to shoot from beyond the arc. A versatile player, he stepped in as quarterback and defensive back during the fall season, showcasing his athleticism and adaptability. His ability to create scoring opportunities and lead by example makes him a key contributor to Ridgewood's success. A true all-around athlete, he brings energy and determination every time he steps on the court.     Roth is a scholar-athlete known for his incredible leaping ability, capable of jumping out of the building. A tough defender around the basket, he isn't afraid to mix it up in the paint and challenge opponents. Offensively, he excels at driving to the basket with power and precision. In addition, to his basketball skills, he plays lacrosse in the spring, demonstrating his versatility as an athlete. His combination of athleticism, defense, and determination makes him a standout player on and off the court.

Plainfield Cardinals Power Through with 16-7 Run to Reach NJ State Finals. Plainfield NaJai Hines Shines, Johnny Jackson Johnny Jackson 5'11" | PG Ridgewood | 2025 State NJ 's 2,000-Point Milestone Highlights Emotional Final Game.