Wildfires in California have ravaged the state, leaving tons of families without a home. Among those affected is JJ Redick, the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, who shared a sad story about losing his family’s rented home in Pacific Palisades. The disaster has left his family in tatters, yet Redick found solace in an unexpected place: the practice facility of the Lakers in El Segundo, approximately 25 miles away.

After practice, Redick spoke about the emotional toll of the loss and his gratitude for his family’s safety. “Our home is gone,” he said. “Everything we owned as a couple was in that house.” Despite the tragedy, Redick remains focused on his team. The practice facility has become a place where he can escape the chaos and find peace.

Losing a home is incredibly personal. Redick now had another challenge to learn how to balance personal grief with professional responsibility. Coaches are usually used to the pressure, but this one really tested him.

Finding Strength Amid Chaos

The nightmare began when Redick’s wife, Chelsea, saw the fire while out in mid-city. “She went home, grabbed the nanny, and scrambled to find a hotel,” he said. “She got the kids from school, and they’re safe. That’s all that mattered.” Although his family escaped unharmed, seeing the ruins of their home left Redick stunned.

“I wasn’t ready for what I saw. It’s complete devastation,” he said. The family had been renting the property while deciding where to settle long-term. The home contained irreplaceable items, including a charcoal painting by his son and mementos from his 18-year relationship with Chelsea. “Some things you just can’t replace,” he said.

Even so, Redick feels grateful his family is safe, a thought that keeps him grounded.

For Redick, the Lakers’ practice facility has become more than just a workplace. Austin Reaves, one of his players, explained, “This is our safe place. Even before this tragedy, it’s where we block everything out.” The 45-minute drive from Pacific Palisades to the facility offers Redick a sense of normalcy as he copes with the fire’s aftermath.

Redick also voiced concern for others affected by the wildfires. “You don’t ever want to wish this on anybody. Losing your home is awful,” he said. His words reveal both his personal grief and empathy for the broader community.

JJ Redick is dealing with a quite heady loss and is figuring out a way to go through with it for his family and his team. Surely a tough task, but what an inspiration he is!

Even in his darkest days, JJ exhibits that building again is possible.