The NBA postponed Thursday’s game between the Lakers and Charlotte Hornets in Los Angeles due to wildfires in the area, but the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams still expect to hold their home playoff game on Monday.
At least five people were killed, thousands of buildings were burned, and about 180,000 people were ordered to evacuate their homes during the disaster. Lakers coach JJ Redick lost his home in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles to fires. ESPN reported Thursday.
“We feel sad for Los Angeles,” the Lakers said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this unimaginable situation. Our gratitude is to the first responders and to all of you who come together when we need each other most.
New Zealand women’s national soccer team captain Ali Riley, who plays for Angel City FC, said her home was among those burned in the Palisades fire.
“This was our house. How is this real? This can’t be real,” Riley posted on X, along with a photo of a burning neighborhood.
Five-time Olympic swimming champion Gary Hall Jr. managed to escape the Palisades Fire with his dog, insulin and some personal items before his rental home was lost in the blaze.
“He also likely lost his 10 Olympic medals, but nothing can take away the spirit that won those medals,” a GoFundMe page set up for Hall said.
The Rams said their wild-card playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood is still scheduled to go ahead. The team previously said the game would be moved to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona if necessary.
“The safety of the Los Angeles community is our top priority,” Ramez said. “As with all games, the NFL has contingency plans in place should a change of location need to be made.”