Boys’ basketball: Compton wins its first title since 1969
Tarbabes win first title since 1969
For the first time since 1969, Compton has won a Southern Section basketball title. The Tarbabes won the 2A championship on Saturday, defeating Redlands East Valley, 63-48, at the Honda Center.
Robert Lewis scored 16 points and Javonntie Jackson contributed 14 points and 16 rebounds during a dominating performance.
“They’re friends,” Compton Coach Tony Thomas said of his team. “It’s very important they’ve stuck together.”
Thomas’ father, Eddie, was the coach at Compton from 1972-87. He died at age 50.
“That job killed him all the stress and pressure,” Thomas said.
To win a title was important to Thomas, who coached NBA guard DeMar DeRozan. He’s trying to keep players from leaving the city for other schools and other programs.
DeRozan gave Thomas a call before the game and promised new shoes for the players with a victory.
Anthony Squalls and Raysean Scott each had 10 points.
Chris Harper led Redlands East Valley 20 points.
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