LOS ANGELES – The basketball world is reeling after news broke that 18-year-old five-star recruit Alijah Arenas, one of the most promising young talents in the country, was involved in a serious car accident early Thursday morning.
Arenas, who recently committed to play for the University of Southern California (USC), was driving a Tesla Cybertruck when he reportedly lost control of the vehicle. According to early reports, the crash occurred when the vehicle struck a fire hydrant and then collided with a tree. The impact of the crash caused the Cybertruck to catch fire, raising immediate concerns for Arenas’ safety.
Despite not suffering any major physical injuries from the crash itself, the rising star was exposed to heavy smoke inhalation. As a precaution and due to the severity of the exposure, doctors placed him in a medically induced coma to assist with his recovery and minimize any potential complications.
Medical professionals have not yet released a detailed update on his condition, but sources close to the family have confirmed that the move to induce a coma was strategic and done to stabilize his condition. There has been no reported brain trauma or broken bones, which offers a glimmer of hope for a full recovery.
The car accident this morning involving incoming USC recruit Alijah Arenas occurred when the Cybertruck he was driving struck a fire hydrant and tree.
Arenas was taken to the hospital in “stable condition”, per the LAPD pic.twitter.com/ERqoeNMhnt
— Ryan Kartje (@Ryan_Kartje) April 24, 2025
The accident has sent shockwaves through the basketball community, especially given Alijah’s growing reputation as one of the nation’s most talented high school athletes. As the son of former NBA player Gilbert Arenas, Alijah has grown up in the spotlight and carved his own path in the sport. His performances on the court have earned him national recognition, including a coveted spot in the 2024 McDonald’s All-American Game—a showcase reserved for the elite of high school basketball.
Social media was flooded with messages of love and support for the young star shortly after the news broke. Teammates, coaches, NBA players, and fans alike have rallied around him and his family, using the hashtag #PrayForAlijah to send positive messages and well-wishes. USC Head Coach Andy Enfield issued a statement expressing the team’s deep concern, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Alijah and his family during this difficult time. He’s a strong young man with a bright future, and we’re confident he’ll pull through.”
Arenas was expected to make a major impact at USC next season, bringing elite scoring ability, court vision, and athleticism to a team that has been building toward a deep tournament run. His commitment was seen as a major win for the Trojans’ program.
For now, the focus is entirely on Alijah’s recovery. Fans across the country are hoping for good news in the days to come, as one of basketball’s brightest young stars fights his toughest battle yet—not on the court, but in the hospital.
