LeBron James Has 6-Word Reaction To Devastating California Wildfires
01/08/2025 09:44 AM
LeBron James sent his thoughts to those affected by the wildfires raging across California.
Gusting Santa Ana winds and dry conditions caused flames to rapidly spread across the Pacific Palisades region of Los Angeles. The fire intensified to nearly 3,000 acres on Tuesday night, forcing at least 30,000 residents to evacuate. Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, and L.A. Councilwoman Traci Park called it an "absolute miracle" that no fatalities have been reported as of Wednesday morning.
As the situation escalated, James and the Los Angeles Lakers dropped a 118-97 road loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday. After the game, the NBA icon posted a brief message of support to those in the fire's path.
"Praying for everyone in Southern California," James said on social media.
LeBron's coach, JJ Redick, said before Tuesday's game that his family was among the many residents forced to evacuate their homes.
"Our family, my wife's family, my wife's twin sister, they've evacuated," Redick told reporters, per ESPN. "I know a lot of people are freaking out right now, including my family. From the sound of things, with the winds coming [Tuesday night], I know a lot of people are scared. So I just want to acknowledge that. Thoughts and prayers for sure, and hope everybody stays safe."
Including road matchups against the Los Angeles Clippers and Golden State Warriors, the Lakers are scheduled to play their next nine games in California. They're supposed to start a four-game homestand by hosting the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday night.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said his mother evacuated their Pacific Palisades home. Everett Dayton, a member of the team's player development department, had his house destroyed by the wildfires.
"Everything I'm seeing and reading is just terrifying what's happening down there," Kerr said. "So, just want to send thoughts to everyone who's going through the devastation of the fire."
Related: Reality TV Star's House Burns Down In Los Angeles Wildfire
