Lakers and Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr Host Palisades High School Basketball Team After California Wildfires Burn Down School
A Night of Community, Compassion, and Joy
The fire took homes. It took memories. It left scars that won’t easily fade. But on Thursday night, inside Crypto.com Arena, Pacific Palisades High School found something the flames couldn’t touch—community, compassion, and a much-needed moment of joy.
Steve Kerr’s Alma Mater
Steve Kerr never forgot where he came from. The Golden State Warriors head coach, a proud alum of Pacific Palisades High School, knew the devastation his alma mater faced in the wake of the recent Southern California wildfires. So, he made sure the Dolphins basketball team had a night they’d never forget.
A Night to Remember
As the Lakers and Warriors prepared for another chapter in their storied rivalry, a group of young athletes displaced by tragedy walked into the arena as honored guests. This wasn’t just a game. This was an embrace from the basketball world, a reminder that in times of hardship, sports can heal.
Jeanie Buss and Steve Kerr’s Gesture
Jeanie Buss, who also once walked the halls of Palisades High, opened Crypto.com Arena’s doors to the team, ensuring they had an experience worthy of their resilience.
JJ Redick’s Personal Touch
And then there was JJ Redick. The first-year Lakers head coach doesn’t just understand basketball—he understands loss. Redick’s own home was among the many reduced to rubble in the Palisades fire. When he emerged for pregame warmups in a gray and blue Pacific Palisades Dolphins sweatshirt, the message was clear: This is personal.
A Message of Hope
The Lakers, battling for playoff positioning in a grueling Western Conference, had their own fight to focus on. But Redick made time. After his team’s hard-fought victory over Golden State, he met with the Palisades players, shaking hands, offering words of encouragement, reminding them that setbacks—on the court and in life—don’t define you. How you respond does.
Conclusion
The night wasn’t about Steph Curry’s dazzling deep threes, Luka Don
ić’s first appearance at Crypot.com Arena, or LeBron James’ relentless drives. It wasn’t about the standings or the playoff race. It was about something bigger: unity, resilience, and the power of sports to uplift when the world feels heavy.
FAQs
Q: Why did Steve Kerr host the Palisades High School basketball team?
A: Steve Kerr, a proud alum of Pacific Palisades High School, knew the devastation his alma mater faced in the wake of the recent Southern California wildfires and wanted to show his support.
Q: What did JJ Redick wear during the game?
A: JJ Redick wore a gray and blue Pacific Palisades Dolphins sweatshirt, a gift from an unknown donor, to show his support for the team.
Q: What was the significance of the night for the Palisades High School basketball team?
A: The night was a reminder that they are not alone and that sports can be a source of healing and unity in times of hardship.
