Top recruit Alijah Arenas recovers from serious LA crash

LOS ANGELES, CA — Alijah Arenas, a highly regarded high school basketball recruit and son of NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, is recovering after being hospitalized due to a serious car crash on April 24. The crash happened in the Reseda neighborhood of Los Angeles while Arenas was driving a Tesla Cybertruck.

According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the incident occurred in the early morning when Arenas struck a fire hydrant and a tree. The vehicle caught fire, leaving the 18-year-old trapped inside. Bystanders broke a window to rescue him from the smoke-filled car before emergency responders arrived.

Arenas was transported to a nearby hospital where he was placed in a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation. Family friend Josiah Johnson shared that Arenas’ condition began to improve after a day, and on April 25, the family confirmed that he had emerged from the coma and was responsive. He even wrote a note asking if anyone else was hurt.

On a recent episode of the YouTube show Gil’s Arena, Johnson reported that Arenas is now walking and talking, adding that he had avoided major injuries and doctors expect him to make a full recovery. The Arenas family later announced that he had been released from the hospital and was resting at home.

In a statement, the family said, “While his journey to full recovery is just beginning, his spirit remains strong, and he is surrounded by love and support.” They also requested privacy as they continue to focus on his healing.

Gilbert Arenas spoke about his son’s progress on The Dan Patrick Show, expressing relief and optimism. “He’s doing very well,” he said, emphasizing that Alijah’s sense of humor has remained intact. “Glad he’s fully recovering and didn’t have any major injuries,” he added.

Despite the crash, Alijah Arenas remains committed to playing for the University of Southern California Trojans, as he is ranked as a five-star prospect in the 2025 recruiting class. His determination to recover has inspired fans and the basketball community, who eagerly await his return to the court.