Basketball fans have plenty to be excited about as young talents continue to emerge, and Alijah Arenas, son of former NBA player Gilbert Arenas, is quickly gaining attention at USC. The freshman guard is showcasing his abilities with an average of 13.8 points per game, including a standout performance where he scored a career-high 29 points against Indiana last week. Just days later, he delivered a clutch 24-point game against Penn State, sealing the win with a decisive game-winner.
Gilbert Arenas Draws High-Level Skill Comparisons for His Son
Watching Alijah play reveals a smooth style that has already sparked comparisons from his father to NBA stars known for their quick decision-making and agility. Gilbert Arenas highlighted his son’s skill set during a recent appearance on his show, stating,
“I’m going to tell you this. Alijah Arenas is very, very skilled,”
and added,
“We watched a lot of Kyrie, Shai, he watched Luka. Now the best players in the NBA are guys who can react in real time, who has put their body through so much motion. When you see him moving forward, you will realize he is Shai and Kyrie in one. That’s what his skill level was designed for. He was designed to be a reaction player.”
Understanding the NBA Influences Behind Alijah’s Game
Gilbert’s reference to Kyrie Irving and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander points to players admired for their ability to make split-second decisions and fluidly adapt on the court. These elite athletes appear almost like poetry in motion, and Gilbert believes Alijah is developing those same instincts and skill in his own game. Achieving such progress as a freshman highlights the potential for further growth, especially if he remains at USC to refine his talent in the coming years.
The Road Ahead for Alijah Arenas
Alijah’s early success not only demonstrates his current capabilities but also presents an optimistic outlook for his future in basketball. His development so far signals a promising trajectory that could elevate him to a higher level of play, making the ongoing observation of his career an exciting prospect for fans and analysts alike.
