West Orange tops Glen Ridge in Essex County Invitational semifinals

Then's double-double powers West Orange to Essex County Invitational semifinal win.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Jaden Then scored 26 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to lead 20-seeded West Orange past 17-seeded Glen Ridge 58-48 in the semifinal round of the Essex County Invitational on Saturday in Glen Ridge. West Orange used a dominant fourth quarter to secure the victory, outscoring Glen Ridge 23-11 in the final period after trailing 37-35 entering the fourth.

Why it matters

The Essex County Invitational is a highly competitive high school basketball tournament that showcases some of the top talent in the region. West Orange's victory over Glen Ridge advances them to the tournament final, where they will face a tough opponent in 11-seeded Columbia.

The details

West Orange (14-10) was led by Jaden Then's double-double performance of 26 points and 10 rebounds. Max Bleecker added 16 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two blocks, while JeCarl Riggins contributed eight points, four rebounds and four assists. Glen Ridge (15-9) held a slim advantage through three quarters, but West Orange's offense surged in the fourth quarter to secure the win.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • West Orange outscored Glen Ridge 23-11 in the fourth quarter.

The players

Jaden Then

A key player for West Orange, scoring 26 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in the semifinal victory.

Max Bleecker

Contributed 16 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two blocks for West Orange.

JeCarl Riggins

Scored eight points, grabbed four rebounds and dished out four assists for West Orange.

Ethan Belle

Recorded two blocks for West Orange in the fourth quarter to help fuel their decisive run.

Columbia

The 11-seeded team that West Orange will face in the final round of the Essex County Invitational.

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What’s next

West Orange will move on to face 11-seeded Columbia in the final round of the Essex County Invitational.

The takeaway

West Orange's victory over Glen Ridge in the Essex County Invitational semifinals demonstrates the team's ability to make key adjustments and mount a strong comeback in the fourth quarter, showcasing their resilience and determination as they advance to the tournament final.