The City of Angels is reeling from the aftermath of the devastating fires that swept through the region, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The sports community is also feeling the effects of the fire, with members facing personal losses and uncertainties about upcoming events.
Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick shared the heartbreaking news that his family’s rented home in Pacific Palisades was consumed by the flames earlier this week. Reflecting on the loss, Redick revealed, “I’m not sure I’ve wept or wailed like that in several years.”
Despite the tragedy, the Lakers are gearing up to return to action against San Antonio on Saturday. Across town, the Los Angeles Clippers are also preparing to host Charlotte, but both teams are still deliberating on whether their games will proceed as scheduled.
Redick recounted how the fire tore through his home while the Lakers were away on a road trip, leaving his wife, Chelsea, and their two sons unharmed but displaced. The devastation has also extended to the horse racing community, with Jockey Mario Gutierrez, a two-time Kentucky Derby winner, losing his home in the fire, as confirmed by his agent, Mike Ciani.
Santa Anita Park, home to over 1,800 horses in Arcadia, has been spared from direct threat, but the surrounding air quality has been affected by the inferno. Despite the challenges, trainer Tim Yakteen expressed gratitude, saying, “We’re very fortunate” when compared to other families who have suffered even greater losses.
The impact of the fires has reached the collegiate sports scene, with UCLA waiting for a decision on their women’s game against Northwestern at Pauley Pavilion. The uncertainty is also felt by UCLA assistant Tony Newnan, whose home is on the edge of the evacuation zone in Pacific Palisades. Head coach Close acknowledged the anxiety among the players, many of whom are from out of state or other countries.
As the city navigates through this challenging time, USC standout JuJu Watkins and No. 4 USC are expected to battle Penn State at the Galen Center on Sunday. The flames may have dimmed the lights of Los Angeles temporarily, but the resilience of its sports community shines bright amidst adversity.
