Even some notable NBA personalities were ehavily affected by devastated large portions of wildfire that is blazing through the Southern California area.
At least two people are dead and more than 1,100 structures destroyed as wildfires rage throughout the Los Angeles area. Follow live updates: https://t.co/y0ltXeMGes
— CNN (@CNN) January 8, 2025
Clippers superstar Kawhi Leonard, along with Lakers and Warriors head coaches JJ Reddick and Steve Kerr bared their families were among hundreds of thousands forced to evacuate due to the severe natural disaster.
According to Associated Press, three major wildfires are occurring at the same time in the Los Angeles area namely the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires. Five people were dead according to reports.
Per NBA senior insider Chris Haynes, Leonard is out for an indefinite period of time to attend his family members after just returning to the squad last January 5.
Sources: Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard is stepping away from the team to be with family who were forced to evacuate due to the Los Angeles-area wildfires. #haynesbriefs pic.twitter.com/rthR3Vv4kl
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 8, 2025
That came before the Clippers’ road against the Denver Nuggets where they lost for the second game in a row.
Reddick revealed that his family was also affected, acknowledging the gravity of the situation in the aftermath of the Lakers’ defeat against the Dallas Mavericks.
"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. So I just want to acknowledge that. Thoughts and prayers for sure, and hope everybody stays safe."
Lakers head coach JJ Redick shares a heartfelt message amid the Pacific Palisades fire in California.
— Joey Mistretta (@JoeyMistretta_) January 7, 2025
Kerr noted his 90-year-old mother, Ann Zwicker, had to evacuate from her Pacific Palisades home due to the rampaging wildfire in the area.
“Everything I’m seeing and reading is just terrifying, what’s happening down there,” the four-time champion coach said in the post-game conference of the Warriors’ 114-98 loss to the Miami Heat.
He added: “So, just wanted to send thoughts to everyone who’s going through the devastation of the fire."
Steve Kerr on the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) January 8, 2025
Reports also indicated that Kerr’s childhood home was ‘tragically burned."
With that, Lakers star LeBron James sent his best wishes to people affected by the devastating wildfires.
Praying for everyone in Southern California!! ! 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
— LeBron James (@KingJames) January 8, 2025
