"We're learning each other": Former NBA Champion Trevor Ariza opens up about his relationship with son and top HS prospect Tajh Ariza  

Son of former NBA Champion Trevor Ariza, Tajh Ariza is a five-star recruit and ranks seventh in the 2026 ESPN 60 Recruiting Database. He received five stars from ESPN, Rivals and 247Sports. Meanwhile, On3 considers him a four-star recruit. The 16-year-old is among the most talented players in his class.

Trevor Ariza recently appeared on the UNINTERRUPTED podcast, where he spoke about his son and parenthood. When asked how he felt about Tajh becoming one of the top high school players in the country, he said this (0:07 - 1:11):

"It's been cool because he lived in North Carolina for middle school, and when he came back to LA it was like a curve that we had to get to build with each other like just dad and son first. We're learning each other through difficult times, so when it's dad and son time and I got to be in the house with them like my dog like go make your bed or go brush your teeth."

The former Lakers star also spoke about his son's personal growth and willingness to learn:

"It's easier for me because he understands when I'm teaching him on the court or what we go through on a daily basis. Basketball is only a small piece of what life really is. The thing that amazes me the most is that he's growing as a person more than a basketball player."

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What's next for Tajh Ariza?

With an industry ranking of 98.61 (according to On3), Tajh Ariza began receiving college offers two years ago. The Westchester Senior has an NIL valuation of 209K and has received offers from the Kentucky Wildcats, Kansas State Wildcats, Arkansas Razorbacks, UNLV Rebels, Kansas Jayhawks, Arizona State, Washington Huskies, UCLA Bruins and USC Trojans.

While it's still early for Ariza to commit, On3 listed its predictions for which college he may attend. According to their list, the USC Trojans have the highest chance of landing Ariza. The program is 11 miles from his home and has 17.4% odds.

This is followed by UCLA, which made its offer in February 2023 and has a 15.2% chance of signing the 6'7" forward. UNLV has a 13% chance, while Kansas, Washington, Arizona State, Arkansas and Kentucky have a 10.9% chance.

Ariza's future looks bright, and colleges are lined up to recruit him. Which school do you think Tajh Ariza will choose?