LOS ANGELES — Knox and Kai Redick, two young fans of basketball, previously enjoyed a vast collection of NBA jerseys, trading cards, and autographs, all gathered thanks to their father’s career as a shooting guard, his role as a podcaster, and his coaching position with the Los Angeles Lakers. Sadly, the boys lost their cherished memorabilia during the devastating wildfires that destroyed their home and much of the Pacific Palisades neighborhood last week.
In a heartwarming act of kindness, after the San Antonio Spurs triumphed over JJ Redick’s Lakers on Monday, Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul reached out to the Redick boys, gifting them their game jerseys. “I didn’t know they were such big fans, but JJ is someone I admire and was directly affected by this tragedy,” Wembanyama explained. “If I can brighten those kids’ day, I’m happy to do so.” The boys, who had recently faced hardship, were visibly uplifted by this generous gesture.
Even though the Lakers faced a loss in their first game back since the wildfires claimed at least 24 lives and devastated large parts of their community, the team aims to restore a sense of normalcy for their city after a harrowing week. Both the Lakers and Clippers resumed play on Monday night—the Lakers fell to the Spurs 126-102 at their downtown venue, while the Clippers secured a 109-98 victory against the Miami Heat in the newly opened Intuit Dome in Inglewood, roughly 10 miles from downtown.
Lakers star Anthony Davis shared that he had to evacuate his family as the wildfires approached their home. “This is undoubtedly a challenging time for our city,” he said. “We’ve learned from the pandemic that sports can bring joy to people, even if just temporarily. We were excited to get back on the court in front of our supporters. The situation in LA is tough, and we’re grateful for the outpouring of support from around the globe.” Davis intends to personally thank first responders and is arranging for tickets to a Lakers game as an expression of gratitude.
Similarly, JJ Redick expressed relief at returning to the court. “A team thrives when it draws strength from one another,” he noted. “The support from my players, staff, and the organization for me and the community has been powerful. It is now our responsibility to give hope and joy. Sports can offer an escape, and I hope tonight is no exception.” Redick and Paul share a close bond from their time together with the Clippers, with Redick considering the 20-year veteran to be “like a brother.” “Chris called earlier and said, regardless of who wins, he and Vic were going to give the boys their jerseys,” Redick added. “It was a wonderful gesture, and they’re now the proud owners of two jerseys each, thanks to Austin Reaves leaving some in his locker after practice.”
In response to the devastating wildfires, the NBA postponed two Lakers home games and one for the Clippers while the fires continued to rage. Meanwhile, the NFL moved the Los Angeles Rams’ wild-card playoff game to Phoenix. Lakers fans welcomed highlights of the Rams’ victory over Minnesota with loud cheers during the game.
Redick noted that some of his players received evacuation warnings, and one was delayed getting to work due to the disruption near his home. He and his family lost almost all of their possessions in the fire. “I am truly overwhelmed by the incredible support and generosity shown to me and my family, along with all families affected by this disaster,” Redick reflected.
The Lakers held a donation event outside their arena prior to the game against the Spurs, collecting food and personal care items for those in need. Both the Lakers and Clippers announced a combined contribution of more than $8 million towards local relief efforts alongside ten other professional sports teams from the Los Angeles area. Before the game, the Lakers displayed “Thank you first responders” on their scoreboard and held a moment of silence, which was followed by point guard Gabe Vincent addressing the fans. “On behalf of my teammates and the organization, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to all those impacted,” Vincent said. “We especially want to acknowledge the first responders who are risking their lives to safeguard our community. Now is the time for us to unite as a city and a family to support those who are currently in need.”
At the Intuit Dome, the Clippers covered every seat with white towels inscribed with “LA Strong” and a blue outline of California. “We’re incredibly thankful for the first responders, but our hearts ache for the victims,” public address announcer Eric Smith mentioned before the game. “The smoke will clear, and the community will rebuild—this is LA. Today, we stand together as one team, one Los Angeles.”
The opponents, too, faced uncertainty due to the wildfires. The Spurs were set to clash with the Lakers in consecutive games starting Saturday, while the Heat were uncertain about their travel arrangements to Los Angeles following their game in Portland. “We fully understand our responsibility,” Miami coach Erik Spoelstra conveyed. “We aim to be a source of entertainment and inspiration during such troubling times. While doing that, we cannot overlook the devastation facing so many.”
