LOS ANGELES, CA — The sports world is rallying around 18-year-old basketball phenom Alijah Arenas, who was placed in a medically induced coma following a serious car accident early Thursday morning, April 24, 2025. Arenas, a five-star recruit and son of former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, had recently committed to play for the University of Southern California (USC).
Details of the Accident
The crash occurred around 4:55 a.m. in the Reseda neighborhood of Los Angeles. According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, a Tesla Cybertruck—registered to Gilbert Arenas—collided with a tree and a fire hydrant near the intersection of Corbin Avenue and Blythe Street. The impact caused the vehicle to catch fire. Alijah was found outside the vehicle and transported to a nearby hospital in serious condition. Initial reports indicate that he did not suffer any broken bones.
Medical sources have stated that Alijah was placed into a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation from the vehicle fire. This procedure is considered standard protocol in such cases to assist with recovery.
Community and Family Response
Alijah’s mother, Laura Govan, took to social media shortly after the incident, requesting prayers for her son’s recovery. Gilbert Arenas canceled a scheduled episode of his podcast, “Gil’s Arena,” in light of the accident.
USC men’s basketball coach Eric Musselman released a statement expressing support:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Alijah and his family following this morning’s accident. Please keep him, his teammates and friends, and the entire Arenas family in your prayers.”
Alijah Arenas: A Rising Star
Alijah Arenas has been a standout player at Chatsworth High School in Los Angeles, where he became the all-time City Section scoring leader with over 3,000 points. He recently played in the 2025 McDonald’s All-American Game and is ranked No. 13 in the class of 2025. Alijah reclassified from the class of 2026 and committed to USC in January, choosing the Trojans over offers from top programs like Arizona, Kansas, and Kentucky.
Ongoing Investigation
The Los Angeles Police Department has stated that drugs and alcohol are not suspected factors in the crash. The investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident.
The Arenas family and the broader basketball community are hopeful for Alijah’s recovery and are grateful for the outpouring of support during this challenging time.