Trey Ambrozich delivered a dominant performance, scoring a career-high 28 points and finishing one rebound shy of a double-double to lead University Lab past Kailua, 51-45, in the HHSAA Division I Boys Basketball State Championship quarterfinals. The Jr. ‘Bows controlled most of the game but had to fend off multiple Surfrider rallies in the second half.

Ambrozich shot 10-for-18 from the field and went a perfect 7-for-7 from the free-throw line, scoring all 15 of UH Lab’s fourth-quarter points. His efforts, along with key defensive contributions from Todd McKinney, helped contain Kailua’s top scorer, Maddox Pung, who was held scoreless.

UH Lab led 27-21 at halftime and maintained its edge despite Kailua briefly taking the lead twice late in the third quarter. Ambrozich responded each time, including a key three-point play in the fourth that gave the Jr. ‘Bows breathing room. He sealed the victory with four clutch free throws in the final seconds.

With the win, UH Lab advances to the semifinals for the first time since winning back-to-back state titles in 1987 and 1988. They will face ILH rival Punahou today, February 22, at 5 p.m. at McKinley High School.

Photos: Lori McKeown

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