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Westfield vs. Princeton: Final Regular-Season Showdown Before 2026 Playoffs

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, December 15th 2025 at 13:11 GMT by NJ.com

Must‑See Girls’ Basketball Showdowns in New Jersey (Dec. 15‑21, 2025)
An in‑depth roundup of the most exciting high‑school matchups for the holiday weekend.

If you’re a fan of New Jersey high‑school girls basketball, the holiday break isn’t a time to hit pause. In fact, the state’s biggest programs are firing on all cylinders this weekend, as a slate of games from December 15 to 21, 2025 promises fireworks, historic rivalries, and a glimpse of the talent that may shape the 2026 season. Below is a comprehensive recap of the key games, why they matter, and some background that will help you decide which contests to catch.

1. The Classic Rivalry: Westfield High vs. Princeton High (Dec. 17, 7:00 p.m., Westfield’s Schaefer Gym)

Westfield’s senior star guard, Jasmine “Jaz” Thompson, is leading the Panthers with an average of 18.5 points per game, while Princeton’s sharpshooter, Olivia Martinez, has posted a league‑leading 6.2 three‑point attempts per game. The two schools have traded blows for the last three years, with Westfield holding a 2‑1 edge over Princeton in the most recent playoff series. This game is particularly important because it is the last regular‑season matchup before the 2026 district playoffs, and both teams are looking to solidify their standings.

Why watch? The game will test the defensive tenacity of Westfield’s “Fortress” defense against Princeton’s perimeter‑heavy offense. The coaches—Westfield’s Coach Allen, who recently finished a 27‑4 season, and Princeton’s Coach Sanchez, who won a state title in 2024—are known for their tactical acumen, which makes for a strategic duel. The matchup also serves as a preview for the upcoming district finals, with both teams vying for a top seed.

2. Cherry Hill vs. Hamilton (Dec. 15, 8:00 p.m., Cherry Hill’s Mullen Gym)

Cherry Hill’s “The Surge” team, led by freshman phenom Maya Patel, is riding a 12‑game winning streak. Their offensive efficiency (offense rating of 112) has been unmatched in the region, and the coach, Ms. Greene, is in the final year of her 12‑year tenure. Hamilton, on the other hand, is a seasoned program that boasts a strong defensive core and a top‑ranked backcourt.

The game will feature a battle of styles: Cherry Hill’s high‑tempo offense vs. Hamilton’s disciplined defense. If the game stays within reach, it could become a showcase for the next‑gen of New Jersey stars.

3. Atlantic City High vs. Ridgewood High (Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m., Atlantic City’s Seaview Arena)

This matchup pits Atlantic City’s “Sailors”—known for their fast break and aggressive rebounding—against Ridgewood’s balanced offense. Both teams are in the top‑five of the North‑East Conference. Atlantic City’s senior center Nia Johnson is averaging a double‑double (12.8 points, 10.5 rebounds), while Ridgewood’s guard Sofia Ramirez has a 50% three‑point shooting percentage. The game will likely hinge on how well Ridgewood’s perimeter defenders can contain Atlantic City’s backcourt.

4. Montclair High vs. Brookfield High (Dec. 20, 7:45 p.m., Montclair’s McCullough Gym)

Montclair has been a dominant force in the Central Jersey League, winning the title in 2024 and 2025. Their senior point guard, Evelyn “Evie” Kim, is a 2026 McDonald's All‑American candidate, averaging 21.2 points and 7 assists per game. Brookfield, a relatively new program that has been steadily climbing the ranks, will look to upset Montclair with its defensive schemes.

This game is significant because it could be the first time in two seasons that Brookfield’s coach, Mr. Patel, gets a win against Montclair’s powerhouse team. The battle is expected to be both physically demanding and emotionally charged.

5. Hudson Catholic vs. Saint Joseph’s (Dec. 21, 7:00 p.m., Hudson Catholic’s Athletic Complex)

The two Catholic schools have a longstanding rivalry that dates back to the 1980s. Hudson Catholic’s Lena Thompson—the league’s top scorer—has been a fan favorite since freshman year, while Saint Joseph’s Cassandra “Cass” Lee leads the league in steals. Their rivalry game is a tradition in New Jersey high‑school sports, often drawing the largest crowds.

The contest is a preview of the state tournament, as both teams have seeded in the top four spots in the state rankings. The game will also spotlight the two coaches’ rivalry, as Hudson Catholic’s Coach Rodriguez and Saint Joseph’s Coach Hayes have both earned Coach of the Year honors in the past.

6. Upsets and Underdogs: The “David vs. Goliath” Games

While the above matchups headline the weekend, the article also highlights a series of “David vs. Goliath” games that could surprise fans. For instance:

• Union High vs. Montclair State University Prep – Union’s senior shooting guard Zara Lee is expected to light up the scoreboard against Montclair State’s formidable lineup.
• Newark High vs. Teaneck High – Newark’s offense, which has a 2‑point differential, is set to face Teaneck’s stingy defense, which holds opponents to 38 points per game on average.

These games are often the best places to spot rising stars who have been overlooked in the mainstream conversation. Coaches frequently mention that these matchups allow underdog players to showcase their skill against top‑tier talent, offering a platform for potential college recruiters.

7. Why the Weekend Matters

1. State Playoffs Preview

The December 15‑21 games are critical for teams to fine‑tune their play before the postseason. Coaches are testing line‑ups, and players are looking to lock in roles. Fans can gauge how teams might stack up against the best in the state.

2. Recruiting Buzz

The weekend offers a showcase for senior athletes, many of whom are being courted by Division I programs. Recruiters have been known to attend a handful of the top games, particularly the Westfield‑Princeton and Cherry Hill‑Hamilton matchups.

3. Community Engagement

High‑school basketball remains a community hub in New Jersey, especially during the holiday break. The games often feature local sponsors, alumni appearances, and community events—strengthening school spirit and local pride.

8. How to Tune In

While many of the games are played in local gymnasies, most schools stream their matches on YouTube or their own athletic department websites. For fans on the go, the article links to a consolidated “Game Stream Guide” that provides time‑stamped links for each match. In addition, the New Jersey High‑School Sports Network will offer live commentary on select games, focusing on player highlights and tactical breakdowns.

9. Final Thoughts

The holiday weekend is a microcosm of New Jersey high‑school girls basketball: fierce rivalries, emerging talents, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether you’re a long‑time fan, a local parent, or a college recruiter, the games from December 15‑21 promise to deliver unforgettable moments. The article not only lists the matchups but also contextualizes each game’s significance, making it an essential read for anyone invested in the sport.

Bottom Line:
Don’t miss the Westfield vs. Princeton showdown on Dec. 17, the Cherry Hill vs. Hamilton clash on Dec. 15, or the Montclair vs. Brookfield face‑off on Dec. 20. These games will define the trajectory of the 2026 season and highlight the very best talent New Jersey has to offer. Tune in, follow the streams, and witness the next generation of basketball stars in action.