NBA coaches Steve Kerr, JJ Redick say family members evacuated due to Pacific Palisades wildfire
NBA coaches JJ Redick and Steve Kerr said their family members were evacuated due to the Pacific Palisades wildfire, one of four spreading in California since Tuesday.
"I just want to acknowledge and send thoughts and prayers to everyone in the Palisades right now. That's where I live,” Redick, the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, said before the team’s Tuesday game against the Dallas Mavericks, according to The Associated Press (AP).
"Our family, my wife's family, my wife's twin sister, they've evacuated. I know a lot of people are freaking out right now, including my family,” he continued. “From the sound of things, with the winds coming [Tuesday night], I know a lot of people are scared."
Redick added, "So I just want to acknowledge that. Thoughts and prayers for sure, and hope everybody stays safe."
The three of the fires in the Los Angeles area started Tuesday, spreading rapidly with high winds and prompting evacuations from residents. Homes and other buildings have sustained damages while others suffered power outages.
The Palisades fire has grown to nearly burning 3,000 acres, according to Cal Fire.
Lakers' star player LeBron James echoed his coach, writing on social platform X that he is, “Praying for everyone in Southern California!!!”
The Lakers ended up falling to the Mavericks in a 118-97 loss.
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said his mother was evacuated from her home in the Pacific Palisades.
“Everything I’m seeing and reading is just terrifying, what’s happening down there,” Kerr told reporters after the team’s 114-98 loss Tuesday to the Miami Heat, according to CNN.
“So, just wanted to send thoughts to everyone who’s going through the devastation of the fire," he added.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) declared a state of emergency while the White House directed federal resources to help out the local officials in their response and those evacuating the area.