Three intense and devastating wildfires are raging in Southern California, fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds. The evacuation orders, which now include parts of the Los Angeles area, have caused tens of thousands of people to flee their homes, and the families of two NBA coaches are among those affected.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick, who lives in Palisades, said Tuesday that his family had to evacuate their home because of the advancing fire and smoke. Redick and the Lakers were not in Los Angeles, but in Texas for a game against the Dallas Mavericks.
“I just want to send my thoughts and prayers to everyone in the Palisades at this time,” Redick said. “That’s where I live.
“Our family, my wife’s family, my wife’s twin sister, they have been evacuated. I know a lot of people are panicking right now, including my family. Sounds like it, with the wind coming [Tuesday night]I know a lot of people are afraid. So I just want to acknowledge that. Thoughts and prayers for sure, and I hope everyone stays safe.”
TNT reported that the Lakers’ flight back to Los Angeles would be delayed due to the fires, but the team told ESPN that they would still depart Dallas on Tuesday evening.
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has also been affected by the fires. His 90-year-old mother lives in Pacific Palisades and had to evacuate her home.
“I want to send my thoughts and condolences to everyone in Los Angeles who is affected by the fires,” Kerr said after the Warriors’ 114-98 loss to the Miami Heat. “My mother lives in Pacific Palisades. She had to evacuate.
“Everything I see and read is just terrifying what’s happening down there,” Kerr said, “so I’d like to send thoughts to anyone who experienced the devastating fire. The game is obviously secondary to that and many things in life. Perspective is important.”
Kerr also said that Everett Dayton, who works for the Warriors in their player development department, grew up in Palisades and has lost his childhood home.
NFL monitoring situation ahead of the Vikings-Rams wild card game
The NFL playoffs begin this weekend with the wild-card round and the Los Angeles Rams will host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night. SoFi Stadium is located in Inglewood, about 10 miles southeast of where the fires are burning, but the situation is evolving quickly.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said the league is closely monitoring the fire.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy on the Los Angeles area wildfires:
“The NFL continues to monitor developments closely and will remain in contact with both clubs and the NFLPA.”
Vikings and Rams play at Sofi Stadium on Monday.
— Eric Edholm (@Eric_Edholm) January 8, 2025
