Alijah Arenas, the 18-year-old son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas, was hospitalized following a car accident in Los Angeles early Thursday morning. The young athlete had recently committed to the University of Southern California (USC) and was regarded as one of basketball’s rising stars, attracting attention from major college programs including Arizona, Kansas, Kentucky, and Louisville.
The crash happened shortly before 5 a.m. Alijah Arenas wrecked a Tesla Cybertruck that his father, Gilbert Arenas, bought for him. According to news reports, he crashed into a fire hydrant and tree after losing control of his vehicle. According to a law enforcement source, Alijah was taken to a nearby hospital and treated for the injuries he sustained during the altercation.
On that same day, his mother, Laura Govan, posted to Instagram. She turned to her fans and followers on Instagram and requested them to pray for her son. The family is very loving and close to each other. In the interim, sports—particularly the basketball community—have joined alongside them to support them through this tough time.
Gilbert Arenas, the brilliant former professional basketball player whose appearance on Gil’s Arena was scheduled for Thursday afternoon, has canned his appearance. He took this step after an experience his son had that he described. The ruling reinforces the family’s focus on Alijah’s health and recovery as they work through this tragic ordeal.
Alijah Arenas had been poised for a breakout season at USC after earning recognition as a top college recruit. His dedication to the school earlier this year sent shockwaves of exuberance through fans and coaches alike. For good reason, as they all viewed him as the pivotal piece of the fab four.
Though investigations into the crash remain ongoing, the Arenas family has not provided further information about Alijah’s condition. The aspiring young hoop star’s future in the sport is still unknown while he turns his attention to healing.