The first time Trevor Ariza noticed his son was different was during a fourth-grade basketball game. Tajh Ariza displayed his skills by making a perfect behind-the-back pass to an open shooter after breaking down a defender with a single move. Trevor recalls, “The timing was perfect. It was in stride. It was just a perfect pass.”
On a typical sunny day in L.A., Trevor, Tajh, and Tristan Ariza are having a competition to see who can hit a half-court shot first. Two years after Trevor’s retirement from the NBA, they are back at the campus where Trevor’s basketball journey began. This time, it’s Tajh wearing Trevor’s old white, red, and black threads.
Tajh, a top 16-year-old player in the nation, will soon be playing on the same court his father once dominated. Having finished a season at St. Bernard HS, Tajh transferred to Westchester this spring.
Standing at halfcourt, surrounded by a sea of red, black, and white, Tajh embodies the legacy of his father, Trevor, who won two state titles with the Comets. Despite his NBA background, Tajh’s game is unique and entirely his own.
Tajh’s dedication and hard work have made him a top prospect in the class of 2026, earning multiple DI offers and invitations to prestigious camps and circuits. His passion for the game, coupled with his father’s guidance, has propelled him to new heights.
Trevor waited for Tajh to show a serious interest in basketball before providing him with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed. Tajh’s commitment to the game grew over the years, transforming from a casual interest to a relentless pursuit of excellence.
With a structured plan in place, Trevor and Tajh work together on various aspects of his game, from physical conditioning to studying plays and players. Their shared journey emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success.
As Tajh’s journey unfolds, the support and wisdom provided by Trevor serve as guiding lights amidst the challenges and pressures of high-level competition. Their bond transcends the basketball court, embodying a father-son relationship built on shared passion and mutual respect.
As Tajh embarks on his junior season and Tristan prepares to follow in his brother’s footsteps, Trevor understands the delicate balance of being a mentor, coach, and father. He knows when to push and when to step back, allowing his sons to navigate their own paths and write their own legacies.
For Tajh, the future is bright as he embraces the challenges and opportunities that come with his talent and hard work. Trevor remains a steady presence in his life, offering guidance and support as Tajh continues to evolve as a player and a young man.
As Tajh stands on the brink of a new chapter in his basketball journey, he carries with him the lessons and values instilled by his father, ready to carve out his own path and make his mark on the game.
Portraits by Sam Muller.
