USC Recruit Alijah Arenas Injured in Car Accident
Alijah Arenas, a highly regarded basketball prospect and signed athlete with the University of Southern California (USC), was involved in a serious car accident early Thursday morning in Los Angeles. According to reports from ESPN, the incident occurred shortly before 5 a.m. when Arenas’s Tesla Cybertruck collided with a tree and a fire hydrant, igniting a fire as a result.
Hospitalization and Condition Update
The 18-year-old driver, though not confirmed by the Los Angeles Fire Department, is widely reported to be Alijah Arenas. Following the accident, he was transported to a nearby hospital where doctors placed him in an induced coma. Fortunately, he did not sustain any broken bones and is currently reported to be in stable condition.
Community Support and Responses
In response to the accident, USC head coach Eric Musselman expressed his concern via social media, stating, “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.”
Background on Alijah Arenas
Alijah Arenas, who hails from Chatsworth, California, is the son of former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas. As the No. 10 prospect in the 2025 recruiting class, he made headlines by committing to USC in January of this year after considering several offers from prestigious programs, including Kentucky, Kansas, and Arizona.
Recent Achievements
Arenas recently participated in the McDonald’s All-American Game, where he showcased his talent by scoring 11 points in 14 minutes of play for the West team in a victorious 105-92 match-up.
Future Prospects
As it stands, USC is currently recognized for having the No. 9 recruiting class for 2025. Arenas is a central figure in this class, which also includes several notable incoming transfers, highlighted by former Maryland player Rodney Rice, who committed to USC just days ago.
This situation is developing, and CBS Sports will provide updates as more information becomes available regarding Arenas’s condition and recovery.