Corona del Mar Holds Off Ojai Nordoff to Reach Final

Unseeded Corona del Mar held off a late run by third-seeded Ojai Nordoff and advanced to the Southern Section Division III-A boys’ basketball final with a 61-46 victory Friday at Corona del Mar.

Corona del Mar returns to the final for the first time since 1995 when it defeated Playa del Rey St. Bernard, 47-46, to win the Division IV-AA title. Corona del Mar also won titles in 1993 (IV-AA) and ’77 (3-A).

The Sea Kings (18-10) pulled ahead with a 19-7 second quarter, but their 18-point lead was cut to seven with 4 1/2 minutes remaining. Justin Shea made three consecutive baskets to halt the Nordhoff rally and seal the victory. He finished with 14 points.

Alec Hanson also scored 14 for Corona del Mar, which will play West Hills Chaminade March 6 at the Arrowhead Pond.

Dennis Alshuler and Kevin Hansen each scored 13 points for Corona del Mar.

Etienne Emmanuel led Nordhoff (19-6) with 18 points.