Lakers-Spurs and Clippers-Hornets Games Postponed Due to Southern California Wildfires
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has announced the postponement of two scheduled games for Saturday night—Los Angeles Lakers vs. San Antonio Spurs and LA Clippers vs. Charlotte Hornets—due to the severe wildfires raging across Southern California. The league confirmed that these games will be rescheduled at a later date to prioritize public safety and ensure resources remain available for ongoing firefighting and emergency efforts.
In a statement, the NBA emphasized its coordination with local authorities and the Lakers and Clippers organizations to address the crisis. “The NBA and the Clippers and Lakers organizations have been in constant communication with local officials in Los Angeles and Inglewood regarding the wildfire emergency. These game postponements are intended to ensure that no critical resources are diverted from the response efforts,” the league explained.
Supporting Relief Efforts
In addition to the postponements, the NBA, in partnership with the NBA Players Association, pledged a donation of $1 million to support wildfire relief efforts. This contribution will benefit organizations such as the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, and other groups actively aiding those impacted by the fires. The NBA also confirmed it is collaborating with the Lakers and Clippers to identify opportunities for long-term recovery support and rebuilding initiatives.
Widespread Impact on Sports
The wildfires have disrupted professional sports events across Los Angeles for three consecutive days. Earlier in the week, the NHL postponed a game between the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames originally scheduled for Wednesday. On Thursday, the NBA postponed the Lakers-Hornets matchup, and the NFL relocated the Los Angeles Rams’ playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings from SoFi Stadium to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Personal Losses Among Athletes and Coaches
The devastation caused by the wildfires has directly affected members of the sports community. Lakers head coach J.J. Redick reportedly lost his home to the fires, while Clippers star Kawhi Leonard temporarily left the team to assist his family during the crisis. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr shared that his childhood home was destroyed, and other athletes, including LAFC’s Carlos Vela and Angel City’s Ali Riley, also experienced significant property losses, with both losing their homes in Malibu.
How to Help
As Los Angeles grapples with one of the most destructive wildfire seasons in its history, donations are still being accepted by various organizations actively providing aid. Every contribution, no matter the size, can help support families and first responders working tirelessly to contain the fires and provide relief to affected communities.
The ongoing wildfires underscore the urgent need for collective action and solidarity as Southern California works toward recovery.
