Union Triumphs over Ferris, 53-28, in State Tournament Opener

Third-seeded Union advances to sectional quarterfinals with dominant defensive performance

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Union High School boys basketball team defeated Ferris High School 53-28 in the opening round of the NJSIAA North 2, Group 4 state tournament. Union's switch to a 2/3 zone defense in the second quarter shut down Ferris' leading scorer Romeo Johnson, and the Farmers went on a 15-0 run to close out the first half with a 25-11 lead. Union's balanced scoring attack was led by junior guard Reed Flood's 19 points, while freshman Elijah Cortes-Sosa and senior Ezenna Asawabelem each added 10 points. Union will host Perth Amboy in the quarterfinals on Saturday.

Why it matters

Union's victory over Ferris showcases the team's defensive prowess and ability to make key adjustments mid-game. The Farmers' stifling 2/3 zone limited Ferris' scoring opportunities and allowed Union to pull away. This win sets up an intriguing quarterfinal matchup against a tough Perth Amboy squad as Union continues its quest for a state championship.

The details

Ferris jumped out to an early 9-7 lead in the first quarter behind seven points from sophomore guard Romeo Johnson. But Union head coach Erick Loften-Harris switched his team to a 2/3 zone defense, which shut down Johnson for the rest of the game. Union then went on a 15-0 run to close out the first half with a 25-11 advantage. The Farmers maintained control in the second half, with their balanced scoring attack and continued defensive intensity proving too much for Ferris to overcome.

  • On Thursday evening, Union defeated Ferris 53-28 in the opening round of the NJSIAA North 2, Group 4 state tournament.
  • Union will host Perth Amboy in the sectional quarterfinals on Saturday at 1 p.m.

The players

Reed Flood

A junior guard for Union who scored a team-high 19 points and dished out 2 assists.

Elijah Cortes-Sosa

A freshman guard for Union who scored 10 points and had 5 assists, playing a key role in Union's 15-0 run to close out the first half.

Ezenna Asawabelem

A senior wing for Union who scored 10 points, including a 3-pointer during Union's second-quarter run.

Javy Ocasio

A senior forward for Union who recorded a team-high 10 rebounds to go with 8 points.

Romeo Johnson

A sophomore guard for Ferris who scored 7 points in the first quarter but was held scoreless the rest of the game.

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What they’re saying

“Even in a game ultimately decided by 25 points, there can be a turning point.”

— Guy Kipp, Author (tapinto.net)

What’s next

Union will host sixth-seeded Perth Amboy in the sectional quarterfinals on Saturday at 1 p.m.

The takeaway

Union's ability to make a key defensive adjustment and clamp down on Ferris' leading scorer showcases the Farmers' versatility and resilience. Their balanced scoring attack and commitment to taking care of the ball will serve them well as they continue their state tournament run against a tough Perth Amboy squad.