Los Angeles Wildfires: Lakers-Hornets Game Postponed, Rams Playoff Match Still On
The raging wildfires across the Los Angeles region have led to the postponement of Thursday’s NBA game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Charlotte Hornets. The devastating fires, which have claimed at least five lives, destroyed thousands of structures, and forced nearly 180,000 residents to evacuate, have also impacted high-profile sports figures, including Lakers head coach JJ Redick.
JJ Redick Loses Home in Pacific Palisades
Lakers head coach JJ Redick is among those who have lost their homes in the fires, ESPN reported on Thursday. Redick’s house in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood was incinerated in the disaster. The Lakers released a heartfelt statement in response to the ongoing crisis:
“We’re heartbroken for Los Angeles. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this unimaginable situation. And our gratitude is with the first responders and all of you who come together when we need each other the most,” the team stated.
We’re with you, LA pic.twitter.com/PoROo4ycd9
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 9, 2025
Impact on Other Sports Figures
The devastation has also affected other notable athletes and residents. Ali Riley, captain of the New Zealand women’s national soccer team and a player for Angel City FC in the NWSL, revealed that her home was among those destroyed in the Palisades fire.
“This was our home. How is this real? It can’t be real,” Riley wrote on X (formerly Twitter), sharing an image of her burned-out neighborhood.
Five-time Olympic swimming champion Gary Hall Jr also lost his rented home to the flames. According to a GoFundMe page set up for Hall, he managed to escape with his dog, insulin, and a few personal items. The page added that Hall most likely lost his ten Olympic medals in the fire but emphasized that “nothing can take away his spirit that won those medals.”
NBA Game Postponed
The NBA made the decision to postpone the Lakers-Hornets game, prioritizing the safety and well-being of players, staff, and fans. The league has not yet announced a rescheduled date for the game. The fires have created hazardous air quality across the region, adding to the challenges faced by residents and sports organizations alike.
LA Rams Playoff Game Still On
Despite the wildfires, the Los Angeles Rams’ NFL wildcard playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings remains scheduled for Monday night at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. The Rams previously announced contingency plans to relocate the game to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, if necessary.
“The safety of the LA community is our top priority. As with all games, the NFL has contingency plans in the event a change in location is needed,” the Rams stated.
The Rams’ decision to proceed with the game at its original location reflects their confidence in the situation being managed effectively. However, they remain vigilant and prepared to adapt should conditions worsen.
Devastation in Los Angeles
The fires have left a trail of destruction across Los Angeles, with the Pacific Palisades neighborhood being one of the hardest-hit areas. The death toll is expected to rise as firefighters battle to contain the blazes. Thousands of residents have lost their homes, and many are now displaced, seeking shelter in emergency facilities.
The city has seen an outpouring of support from the community and organizations, with first responders working tirelessly to mitigate the disaster. Celebrities, athletes, and everyday citizens alike have rallied to provide aid to those affected.
Sports Community Unites
The wildfire crisis has drawn attention to the resilience of the Los Angeles community, including its sports teams and players. The Lakers, Hornets, Rams, and other organizations have expressed solidarity with those impacted, highlighting the importance of unity during such challenging times.
The NBA, NFL, and other leagues have a history of supporting disaster relief efforts, and it’s expected that fundraising and other initiatives will follow to assist affected families and communities.
Looking Ahead
As Los Angeles grapples with the ongoing wildfires, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents, first responders, and all those in the region. The postponement of the Lakers game serves as a reminder of the far-reaching impact of natural disasters, transcending the world of sports and touching lives on a deeply personal level.
The Rams’ upcoming playoff game at SoFi Stadium will also stand as a testament to the city’s resilience as it works toward recovery and rebuilding.
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