Heartbreak and Devastation: Lakers Coach JJ Redick Mourns Home Lost in Pacific Palisades Inferno
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick expressed profound grief on Friday as he recounted the devastating loss of his rental home in the Pacific Palisades wildfire. Speaking after the team’s practice, an emotional Redick shared his experience of returning to a community left in ruins, describing it as “complete devastation and destruction.”
“I went through most of the village, and it’s all gone,” Redick said somberly. “You can never prepare yourself for something like that. Our home is gone.” Redick revealed that he and his family had been renting the home while exploring long-term living options. Tragically, nearly two decades’ worth of memories, including ten years of parenting, were lost in the blaze. “There are certain things you can’t replace, things that will never be replaced,” he added.
Redick detailed the emotional toll of the past 72 hours, emphasizing the collective heartbreak within the Palisades community. “It’s not just about losing a house—it’s the churches, schools, libraries… the heart of our community. It’s all gone,” he said, his voice cracking.
The former ESPN analyst and 15-year NBA veteran, who spent four seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers, acknowledged the outpouring of support from his local community and vowed to help lead the rebuilding efforts. “We’re going to rebuild, and we want to help lead that,” Redick affirmed.
Lakers guard Austin Reaves comforted his coach after the emotional press conference, highlighting the team’s unity during this difficult time.
The wildfires also prompted the postponement of Saturday night’s Lakers-Spurs game at Crypto.com Arena, as well as the Clippers-Hornets game at the Intuit Dome. In a statement, the Lakers pledged their support for first responders and promised to honor the resilience of the Los Angeles community.
As the city mourns its losses, Redick and his family, like many others, are left to rebuild their lives from the ashes, holding on to the hope of a stronger, united future.
