Top USC hoops recruit Alijah Arenas to miss 6-8 months (knee)

Field Level Media
24 Jul 2025, 08:25 GMT+10

(Photo credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)

USC five-star recruit Alijah Arenas suffered a knee injury that will require surgery and keep him off the court between six and eight months, the university announced on Wednesday.

Arenas, the son of former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, had just returned to the practice court, having recovered from after a serious car accident in April.

'Alijah is a tremendous worker, teammate, competitor and person,' USC coach Eric Musselman said. 'He is understandably disappointed that he will not be able to take the court to start the season, but his health is our No. 1 priority. We have no doubt that he will come back even stronger. We look forward to supporting him during this process.'

Arenas graduated from Chatsworth (Calif.) HS a year early to suit up with the Trojans, along with transfers Rodney Rice (Maryland) and Chad Baker-Mazara (Auburn). It was expected that the 6-foot-6 Arenas would form an explosive backcourt for USC.

In April, Arenas lost control of his Tesla Cybertruck and ran into a tree. The car became engulfed in flames, but he was able to escape with assistance from bystanders. Arenas was placed in a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation, but was released one week later.

ESPN tabbed Arenas the No. 13 recruit in their Top 100. He scored more than 3,000 points in three seasons at Chatsworth, setting a CIF LA City Section record.

Arenas was expected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, but that is believed to be in jeopardy due to the nature of his injury.

--Field Level Media

Watch latest videos

News RELEASES

Publish news of your business, community or sports group, personnel appointments, major event and more by submitting a news release to Kenya Star.

More Information

null in null

Africa

Section

Top USC hoops recruit Alijah Arenas to miss 6-8 months (knee)

(Photo credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images) USC five-star recruit Alijah Arenas suffered a knee injury that will require surgery and keep...

Brazil backs ICJ genocide case filed by South Africa against Israel

Brasilia [Brazil], July 24 (ANI): Brazil is preparing to formally intervene in the genocide case brought against Israel at the International...

"Looking forward to getting back onto field and defending that crown": Varun Aaron on defending their WCL title

Birmingham [UK], July 24 (ANI): Former India tearaway Varun Aaron expressed his feelings about reuniting with old players in the ongoing...

"It's always been special to play for your country": Stuart Binny on representing India Champions in World Championship of Legends 2025

Birmingham [UK], July 24 (ANI): Former India all-rounder Stuart Binny expressed his thoughts after representing the country for one...

"Things will get better for us": Piyush Chawla after India trail Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 1-2 against England

Birmingham [UK], July 24 (ANI): Former Indian cricketer Piyush Chawla expressed his thoughts on the ongoing five-match Test series...

Trump to announce "bold and comprehensive AI action plan" to sustain US global dominance: White House

Washington [US], July 24 (ANI): White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Wednesday (local time) extended heartfelt condolences...

World

Section