NBA Star’s Son Chooses Oregon: Tajh Ariza Commits to College Basketball Powerhouse!

Rising Star Commits to Oregon

Tajh Ariza, a towering forward standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 200 pounds, has made his college choice, opting to join the University of Oregon Ducks. This decision marks a significant step for Ariza, who was also considering Southern California before making his final decision. The commitment of this top-tier prospect is a substantial addition to Oregon’s basketball program.

A Glimpse into Tajh Ariza’s Background

Tajh, who still has his high school basketball career at St. John Bosco High School in Bellflower, California, to complete, comes from a family with a rich basketball lineage. His father, Trevor Ariza, is well-known in the basketball world, having had a lengthy 18-season career in the NBA, playing for 10 different teams and being part of the championship-winning Los Angeles Lakers in the 2008-09 season.

The Recruiting Journey and Choosing Oregon

During his recruitment process, Ariza spoke about the appeal of Oregon and how the program under Coach Dana Altman seemed a perfect fit for his aspirations. "They are going to prepare me for the next level," Ariza shared with ESPN. He was reassured by Altman’s promise of early playing time, contingent on his effort and ability to demonstrate his skill and work ethic.

Ariza’s official visit to Eugene was a pivotal moment in his decision-making process. He described the visit as "great" and highlighted a particularly memorable experience. "I was shooting in the gym with the Oregon uniform on, and Coach Altman was there. He corrected my shot, and then I made almost 30 threes in a row. I got the chills making all those shots, and that’s when I felt he was the coach for me," Ariza recounted.

Coach Altman’s Impact

The relationship with Altman was a decisive factor for Ariza. He appreciated Altman’s straightforward approach and his ability to connect on a personal level, not just as a coach but also as a mentor interested in the personal and athletic growth of his players.

Ariza’s Prospect Rankings and Future Potential

Tajh Ariza is not just a promising player due to his height and skills but also holds impressive rankings among scouts and sports analysts. He is listed as the No. 14 overall prospect in his class and the No. 6 small forward according to the 247 Sports composite rankings. Meanwhile, ESPN has him at No. 24 overall and No. 9 among small forwards, underscoring his national reputation.

Oregon’s Recruiting Success

The addition of Ariza continues a trend of strong recruiting classes for Oregon. He joins Kendre Harrison, another highly touted recruit, as part of Coach Altman’s strategy to build a competitive team for the 2026 season. Harrison, a four-star center from Reidsville, North Carolina, also committed to Oregon, adding height and talent to the Ducks’ roster.

In summary, Tajh Ariza’s commitment to Oregon is a significant win for the Ducks, reflecting not only on the program’s appeal but also on Coach Dana Altman’s effectiveness in recruiting top talent capable of elevating the team’s national profile.

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Trent Mallory

Trent Mallory is a passionate sports journalist who dives deep into major competitions and the stories behind every game. From American football and the NBA to tennis and the Olympics, he delivers sharp, energetic coverage. His work brings matches, athletes, and behind-the-scenes challenges to life. For Trent, sports are more than just results — they are culture, passion, and a force for change.