Alijah Arenas, USC's newest addition, avoids serious injuries in car accident

Southern California basketball recruit Alijah Arenas did not sustain significant injuries in a fiery single-vehicle crash last week and is expected to be discharged from the hospital soon, according to his father's podcast.

Arenas, the son of three-time NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, was mentioned by one of his father's podcast co-hosts, Josiah Johnson, on Monday's episode of "Gil's Arena." Johnson shared the positive update during the show.

"Excited to report that Alijah is making great progress," Johnson stated. "Just spoke with Gil on the phone...Alijah is doing well, walking, talking, and making good progress. He should be released from the hospital shortly. Thankfully, there were no major injuries from the car accident."

This was a significant step forward for Alijah Arenas, who was placed in a medically induced coma after the crash on Thursday.

According to multiple sources, Alijah Arenas was driving a Tesla Cybertruck early Thursday morning when the vehicle collided with a fire hydrant and a tree in the Reseda area of the San Fernando Valley. The Los Angeles Times reported, citing a source, that drugs or alcohol were not believed to be a factor in the accident.

The truck caught fire after the crash, and Alijah's medically induced coma was attributed to smoke inhalation.

He emerged from the coma the following day.

Arenas, who is considered one of the top prospects in the Class of 2025, reportedly turned down offers from Arizona, Kansas, Kentucky, and Louisville before committing to the Trojans.

The 6-foot-6 guard recently participated in the McDonald's All-American Game and played basketball at Chatsworth High School in Los Angeles.