Alijah Arenas Makes Emotional USC Debut After Near-Fatal Cybertruck Crash

USC freshman Alijah Arenas finally stepped onto the basketball court on January 21, 2026, marking a remarkable return from a life-altering car accident last spring. The 18-year-old five-star recruit — and son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas — made his long-awaited collegiate debut for the USC Trojans six months after suffering serious injuries in a crash involving a Tesla Cybertruck in the San Fernando Valley. 

Arenas, one of the top recruits in the nation, played 29 minutes in USC’s 74–68 loss to Northwestern, finishing with eight points, two rebounds and two assists. While his shooting numbers showed some rust — he was 3-for-15 from the floor — his presence ignited the crowd, especially when he delivered a slick spin move and bucket early in the game. 

The journey to this moment began in April 2025, when Arenas was seriously injured in a single-vehicle crash involving his Tesla Cybertruck in Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley. The vehicle struck a fire hydrant and a tree, then caught fire, and Arenas was rescued from the burning wreckage by bystanders. 

He was rushed to the hospital, placed in a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation, and underwent treatment for a torn meniscus sustained in the crash. Initially, there was deep concern about his condition and whether he would ever play competitive basketball again. 

Officials have stated that drugs and alcohol were not suspected to be factors in the crash, and authorities focused on whether vehicle malfunction or environmental conditions contributed. 

Arenas’ return to the court is inspiring, but his crash underscores a stark reality: serious car accidents can happen in a heartbeat, regardless of age, fame, or athletic talent. Even when victims survive, the physical, emotional, and financial impacts can linger long after the headlines fade. Smoke inhalation, traumatic injuries, surgeries, hospital time, and rehabilitation — these are all part of the aftermath that many families must navigate after a collision.

For Arenas, the path to recovery wasn’t straightforward. Being placed in an induced coma highlights a major concern after vehicle fires and smoke exposure: even if broken bones are not present, respiratory injuries and complications from toxic fumes are serious and can require intensive medical care. 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious auto accident — whether it’s a high-profile case like Arenas’ or a more everyday collision — it’s important to understand that surviving the crash is just the beginning. Recovery often includes medical treatment, ongoing care, emotional trauma, lost income, and negotiating with insurance companies who may not fully recognize the true cost of an accident.

At Makkabi Law Group, we help individuals and families impacted by vehicle accidents in several key ways:

• Thorough Accident Investigation: We examine all factors — including vehicle performance, road conditions, and driver behavior — to determine what happened and who may be responsible.
• Documentation and Evidence: Preserving police reports, medical records, surveillance footage, and expert testimony is critical to building a strong case.
• Insurance Negotiation: Insurance companies often undervalue claims. We advocate to ensure fair compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Support Through Recovery: We guide families and injured victims through each stage of the legal process, from initial claims to settlement or trial, with compassion and experienced advocacy.

Whether your case involves a high-profile individual or a private citizen, the legal path after an accident is complex. You don’t have to navigate it alone.

Alijah Arenas’ debut is more than a box score entry — it’s a testament to perseverance and recovery. Fans, family and fellow athletes celebrated his resilience, and his first basket brought an emotional high to a hard-fought night. 

But for every inspired comeback, there are countless others whose lives are touched by serious collisions — injuries they face, challenges they endure, and questions they’re left to answer. If you’ve been affected by a vehicle accident, whether due to mechanical issues, impairment, or unexpected roadway hazards, Makkabi Law Group is here to help you pursue justice and support your recovery.

Your recovery matters. Your rights matter. And we’ll stand with you every step of the way.