The recent wildfires in Southern California left devastation in their wake—homes lost, memories destroyed, and scars that won’t easily fade. But on Thursday night, inside Crypto.com Arena, the students of Pacific Palisades High School found something that the flames couldn’t take away: community, compassion, and a much-needed moment of joy.
Steve Kerr Brings His Alma Mater a Night to Remember
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr never forgot where he came from. As a proud alumnus of Pacific Palisades High School, he knew the devastation his former school had suffered. Determined to provide a moment of relief, Kerr helped organize a night that the school’s basketball team would never forget.
As the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors prepared for another chapter in their storied rivalry, a group of young athletes—many of whom lost their homes—arrived at the arena as honored guests.
“This wasn’t just a game. This was an embrace from the basketball world,” Kerr said before the game. “I wanted to host them because this is my alma mater. We’ve gotten them a bunch of shoes and gear.”
Lakers and Warriors Unite to Support Wildfire Victims
The event wouldn’t have been possible without Jeanie Buss, the Lakers’ owner and another former Palisades High student. She ensured the students had an experience worthy of their resilience, opening the doors of Crypto.com Arena for them.
And then there was J.J. Redick.
The first-year Lakers head coach wasn’t just offering support—he understood the pain firsthand. Redick’s own home was among those lost in the wildfire. When he walked onto the court in a gray and blue Pacific Palisades Dolphins sweatshirt, the message was clear: This is personal.
“Someone was nice enough to give this to me yesterday,” Redick said about the Palisades sweater. “Steve [Kerr] texted me to let me know they would be at the game tonight.”
More Than Just a Basketball Game
While the Lakers were focused on their playoff push in the highly competitive Western Conference, Redick made time for the Palisades High team. After his team’s hard-fought victory over Golden State, he met with the young athletes, offering words of encouragement and shaking hands.
His message was simple but powerful: setbacks—whether on the court or in life—don’t define you. How you respond does.
A Night of Unity, Resilience, and Healing
The game itself featured its usual dose of NBA brilliance, from Steph Curry’s deep three-pointers to LeBron James’ dominant drives. But on this night, the score wasn’t the most important thing.
“It’s been nice to collaborate with the Lakers and hopefully put together a nice evening for the Pali team and coaches,” Kerr said. “I know a lot of them lost their homes, and J.J. [Redick] and I know exactly what that’s like. Hopefully, we give them a night to remember and a chance to get away from what’s been happening lately.”
More Than Just a Memory
Steve Kerr didn’t have to do this. Neither did J.J. Redick or Jeanie Buss. But that’s what made it so special.
Long after the final buzzer, after the lights dimmed, and the crowd dispersed into the Los Angeles night, those young athletes from Pacific Palisades High left with something greater than just a memorable evening.
They left knowing they weren’t alone.
And sometimes, that’s the most valuable victory of all.
