In the early hours of Thursday, April 24, the basketball world was rattled by a shocking development: Gilbert Arenas’ teenage son, Alijah, was involved in a serious car accident in Los Angeles.
According to reports, the crash occurred around 4:56 a.m. when his Tesla Cybertruck collided with a fire hydrant and a tree near Corbin Avenue and Blythe Street in the Reseda neighborhood.
The vehicle caught fire, and emergency responders rushed him to the hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma due to smoke inhalation. While the crash was frightening, an encouraging update has emerged.
Alijah Arenas’ Family Announces Positive Update
Arenas’ family released a statement to NBA insider Shams Charania, and the basketball community can now breathe a little easier. Charania confirmed that Alijah is officially out of the induced coma and is showing signs of improvement, although he remains intubated during his recovery.
“Update: Alijah Arenas is now out of his induced coma and making progress in recovery while being intubated following a car crash Thursday,” wrote Charania on his X.
Update: Alijah Arenas is now out of his induced coma and making progress in recovery while being intubated following a car crash Thursday.
Statement from the family: pic.twitter.com/SgzHbrPJ3c
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 25, 2025
Adding a deeply emotional layer to this story, Charania also reported that when Arenas regained consciousness, his first concern was whether anyone else had been hurt in the crash. The family released a statement, which included a quote from “one of the brave individuals who helped rescue Alijah from the burning vehicle.”
“I remember hearing banging on the car window, but I couldn’t see anything because the smoke was so thick,” the person said. “That’s when I realized someone was inside. I tried to break the window, but it wouldn’t give.”
“Then I saw one of the windows was cracked just enough and we used everything we had to bend it and pull him out. The car was on fire. We just knew we had to get him out.”
At just 18 years old, Arenas has already made a name for himself. The five-star recruit averaged 33 points and 8.6 rebounds per game and even took his high school to the CIF Division II state championship game.
Though the road to full recovery may still be long, this recent update is a much-needed sign of hope. The entire basketball community continues to send support to the Arenas family.
NBA Stars Send Prayers for the Young Star
In this moment of distress, Arenas and his family need all the love, strength, and support they can get. The basketball community is coming together to rally behind the young star, offering prayers and positive thoughts.
Several prominent figures from the basketball world have spoken out in support of the youngster. NBA legend Magic Johnson shared heartfelt words for the family.
“Cookie and I are praying for a full recovery for Alijah Arenas following his car crash. We are also praying for the entire Arenas family, especially his dad, Gilbert, and mom Laura, during this difficult time,” wrote Johnson on X.
WNBA star Angel Reese also joined the outpouring of support, expressing her concern by writing “Prayers for Alijah,” on X.
Earlier this year, Arenas made headlines after committing to play college basketball at USC, a major milestone in his young career. More recently, he also celebrated a major endorsement deal with Adidas. Fortunately, it sounds like Arenas is progressing, and the young star remains in the thoughts and prayers of many as he recovers.