Los Angeles, the hub of the nation’s entertainment industry, is facing devastation as wildfires continue to spread across the region, which has left several basketball stars devastated, including San Antonia Spurs sensation, Chris Paul. The wildfire crisis which began on Tuesday has destroyed hundreds of homes, forcing thousands to evacuate.
Amid this crisis, NBA star Paul, whose family is based in LA, has spoken out about the emotional toll the wildfires have taken on him. As per San Antonio Express-News, in an interview, Paul opened up about the struggle he has been going through amid the wildfires. He said:
It’s definitely scary, everything that is going on. I’m sending so much love and prayers to some of my closest friends and family who have lost everything. It’s hard, really hard. I didn’t sleep last night. For me, I’m more excited to get back to my family. I haven’t seen them throughout all this. I definitely want to get there.
Paul’s wife and their two children evacuated their home on Tuesday and moved to a hotel in a safer area, prioritizing their safety amid the unfolding disaster. The Spurs landed in Los Angeles early Thursday morning as part of their road trip, allowing Paul to reconnect with his family during this challenging time.
While the Spurs are scheduled to face the LA Lakers on January 11th, it remains uncertain if Paul will take the court, as he continues to grapple with balancing his professional responsibilities and the emotional toll of the wildfires.
However, the fires have also affected other basketball sensations, not just Chris Paul.
Kawhi Leonard and Steve Kerr among stars affected by LA wildfires
While Chris Paul has openly shared the emotional toll on him and his family, he’s not the only basketball star grappling with the effects of this ongoing crisis. Other athletes with strong ties to Los Angeles have also felt the impact. LA Clippers star Kawhi Leonard rushed back to the city to care for his family, who reside there. Meanwhile, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, whose mother lived in LA, tragically lost his house to the fires and had to evacuate, seeking refuge with friends.
Read More: Flau’Jae Johnson Prays for Los Angeles Amid Wildfires: “This Is So Scary!”
As the LA wildfires continue to wreak havoc, the emotional toll on players like Paul, Leonard, and coach Kerr is evident. While their families and loved ones remain their top priority, these athletes exemplify strength as they navigate the crisis. The resilience of the Los Angeles community, including its sports stars, shines through during this challenging time.

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