Alijah Arenas, a rising basketball phenom and the son of former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, has been placed in a medically induced coma following a devastating car accident in Los Angeles early Thursday morning.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the 18-year-old five-star prospect and USC commit was involved in a serious crash involving his Tesla Cybertruck at approximately 4:55 a.m. on April 24. The impact left him critically injured and rushed to the hospital, where doctors made the decision to place him in a coma to aid his recovery.
“Five-star prospect and USC commit Alijah Arenas was involved in a serious car crash early Thursday morning, hospitalized and placed into an induced coma,” Charania tweeted. “Arenas, 18, is the son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas.”
From Rising Star to Heartbreaking Setback
Alijah Arenas has been considered one of the top high school basketball players in the country. Originally in the Class of 2026, he reclassified to graduate in 2025, fast-tracking his journey to the NCAA. He committed to USC in January, choosing the Trojans over a long list of elite programs.
The talented shooting guard, ranked No. 4 nationally and No. 1 at his position, had just begun earning national attention. He played in the prestigious McDonald’s All-American Game, scoring 11 points while proudly representing Chatsworth High School in Los Angeles.
Alijah and Gilbert’s Powerful Father-Son Bond
During All-American Game weekend, Alijah and his father were interviewed by Trey Phills, reflecting on their journey through basketball together.
“Our personalities are a little the same,” Alijah said. “I feel like that’s my dad’s dream too, that I could get to that level.”
Gilbert Arenas, a former three-time NBA All-Star best known for his time with the Washington Wizards, has been deeply involved in Alijah’s basketball development. He’s often spoken about the balance between being a father, coach, and mentor to his son.
The Crash: What We Know So Far
Details are still emerging about the crash itself. According to TMZ, Alijah was behind the wheel of his Tesla Cybertruck when the vehicle collided with another car. The incident occurred in Los Angeles during the early hours of Thursday morning.
No other details regarding the cause of the accident, the condition of the other driver(s), or whether any charges have been filed have been released at this time.
A Community in Shock
News of the accident has left the basketball world shaken. USC, Chatsworth High School, and basketball fans across the country have expressed an outpouring of support and well wishes for Alijah and the Arenas family.
On social media, tributes from fans and athletes are pouring in under hashtags like #PrayForAlijah and #ArenasStrong. Former teammates and coaches have also begun posting messages of hope and strength.
A Wait for Updates
As of now, Alijah remains in a medically induced coma. His family has not yet released an official statement, but sources close to the Arenas family ask for privacy and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for the latest updates as we continue to follow Alijah Arenas’ recovery.
