Boys’ basketball: Westchester gets key Western League win

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In one of its best all-around performances of the season, Westchester (19-5, 9-1) put itself in position to win the Western League championship by knocking off host Palisades, 55-45, on Monday.

The Comets played great defense on Palisades All-City guard Donovan Johnson, limiting him to five points in the first half and 11 through three quarters before he finished with 20 points.

Westchester dominated on the offensive boards, with 6-foot-8 Zachary McMillan scoring 10 points. Keywhon Powns had 14 points and Je’ron Primus had 12 points, including three three-pointers. Palisades dropped to 15-10 and 9-2.

Westchester opened a 21-18 halftime lead and began to pull away in the third quarter. The Comets can win the title on Friday at Fairfax.

Fairfax (18-9, 9-2) defeated Hamilton, 89-64. Brendyn Taylor scored 25 points and made seven three-pointers. Landon Drew had 16 assists. University defeated Venice, 56-47. Breamon Richard had 17 points.

In the Coliseum League, Crenshaw clinched the championship with a 63-58 victory over Fremont. Andre Edwards had 22 points and 10 rebounds. Birdel Hodge added 15 points.

In the East Valley League, Grant improved to 22-5 and 10-0 with a 78-34 win over North Hollywood. Gor Plavchyan scored 24 points and grabbed 20 rebounds. Travis Wilson had 18 points. In the Northern League, Franklin clinched the championship with a 64-57 win over Marshall.

In the Valley Mission League, Teddy Linn scored 24 points in Reseda’s 70-59 win over San Fernando.

-- Eric Sondheimer