Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has suffered a personal loss in the ongoing Pacific Palisades wildfires, with his family home among the over 5,300 structures destroyed by the relentless flames, according to multiple reports. The wildfire, which has scorched more than 17,000 acres across Southern California, has caused widespread devastation, forcing thousands of families to evacuate, including Redick’s.
The coach, 40, shared his family’s ordeal during a press conference before the Lakers’ game against the Dallas Mavericks earlier this week.
“I just want to acknowledge and send thoughts and prayers to everyone in Palisades right now. That’s where I live,” Redick said on Tuesday. “Our family, my wife’s family, my wife’s twin sister, they’ve evacuated. I know a lot of people are freaking out right now, including my family.”
Redick expressed his concerns about the worsening conditions due to strong winds. “From the sound of things, with the winds coming in, I know a lot of people are scared. So, I just want to acknowledge that. Thoughts and prayers for sure, and hope everybody stays safe.”
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Widespread Impact and Community Support
The Pacific Palisades fire is just one of many blazes ravaging Southern California this week. Entire neighborhoods have been reduced to ashes, and the region’s emergency services are stretched thin as they battle the infernos. Despite their best efforts, the damage has been catastrophic.
In solidarity with the community, the Los Angeles Lakers issued a statement following the announcement that their Thursday home game against the Charlotte Hornets would be postponed.
“We’re heartbroken for Los Angeles,” the team said. “Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this unimaginable situation. And our gratitude is with the first responders and all of you who come together when we need each other the most.”
Athletes and Coaches Hit by the Fires
Redick isn’t the only sports figure affected by the disaster. Fellow NBA coach Steve Kerr, who grew up in Los Angeles, revealed that his childhood home was destroyed. Clippers star Kawhi Leonard was excused from his team’s road trip earlier this week to be with his family, whose home is reportedly in a high-risk area near the fire.
Meanwhile, U.S. Olympic gold medalist swimmer Gary Hall Jr. announced on Thursday that his Los Angeles residence was lost in the wildfire. Tragically, Hall reported that his 10 Olympic medals are believed to have been destroyed in the blaze.
Sports Events Disrupted by the Wildfires
The wildfires have also caused significant disruptions to the local sports calendar. The NFL moved the Los Angeles Rams’ home playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings to Arizona, while the NHL postponed the Los Angeles Kings’ matchup against the Calgary Flames.
The Lakers’ postponed game is expected to be rescheduled once conditions improve, but for now, the focus remains on the safety and recovery of those impacted.
A Message of Resilience
Despite the personal toll, Redick remains focused on supporting his team and community during this challenging time. “We’ll get through this together,” he told reporters. “Right now, it’s about making sure everyone is safe and has the support they need.”
As the wildfires continue to wreak havoc, the resilience and strength of the Southern California community will undoubtedly be tested. Athletes, coaches, and residents alike are rallying together, demonstrating the spirit of unity that shines brightest in the darkest times.
