USC basketball commit Alijah Arenas is back home and recovering after being hospitalized last week following a car crash in Los Angeles.
The 18-year-old athlete, who is the son of former NBA player Gilbert Arenas, was involved in a single-car accident early Thursday morning, April 24.
According to updates shared on Gil’s Arena podcast, hosted by his father, Alijah had been driving home from a morning workout session when his Tesla Cybertruck struck a tree and a fire hydrant around 5 a.m. PT.
He was transported to the hospital in serious condition and placed in a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation, podcast cohost Josiah Johnson explained on the April 28 episode. Johnson noted that the coma was a precaution and that Alijah had shown steady improvement.
“Happy to announce that Alijah’s doing much better,” Johnson shared. “Walking, talking, progressing very well, should be released from the hospital very soon. No major injuries as a result of the car accident.”
On Wednesday, May 1, the Arenas family confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania that Alijah had been released from the hospital and is continuing his recovery at home.
“We are grateful to share that Alijah Arenas has been released from the hospital and is now resting comfortably under close watch,” the family said in a statement. “While his journey to full recovery is just beginning, his spirit remains strong, and he is surrounded by love and support.”
The statement also asked for continued privacy as the family focuses on Alijah’s recovery. “The Govan and Arenas family are preparing for the road ahead with faith and determination, committed to nurturing Alijah back to 100%. He remains blessed, resilient, and in high spirits.”
Alijah is Gilbert Arenas’ second-oldest child with ex Laura Govan. The pair share four children: Izela, Alijah, Hamiley, and Aloni. Gilbert also has a daughter, Gia, from a previous relationship.
Arenas is considered one of the top high school basketball prospects in the country and committed to play for USC earlier this year.
