Los Angeles Clippers star small forward Kawhi Leonard has temporarily left the team to tend to his family amid the deadly Pacific Palisades wildfires. The destructive fires have claimed the lives of at least five individuals in the Los Angeles County area as of Thursday, prompting tens of thousands of residents to evacuate their homes. Firefighters have been working tirelessly to combat the blaze, with reports from the Associated Press indicating that the strong winds fueling the flames for several days are now subsiding.
Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue informed reporters on Wednesday afternoon that Leonard, 33, had been given permission to step away from the team to assist his family during this tragic situation. Lue emphasized the importance of prioritizing family, stating, “You definitely have to take care of home. … Totally had my support 100%.” He further shared that Leonard had returned to check on his family and children, reassuring everyone that they were safe and well, for which he expressed gratitude.
According to NBA Insider Chris Haynes, Leonard’s family, including his longtime girlfriend Kishele Shipley, was among those evacuated from their residence. Leonard and Shipley, who first met while attending San Diego State University, are parents to two children: daughter Kaliyah and a son born in 2019.
While the Clippers were away playing a game in Denver, which they ultimately lost 126-103, the Los Angeles Kings, the city’s NHL team, had to postpone their home game against the Calgary Flames due to the wildfires. The impact of the fires was not limited to Leonard’s family, as Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Redick also revealed that his family had been forced to evacuate their home. Similarly, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr shared that his 90-year-old mother Ann was among those who had to evacuate their home as well.
Expressing concern and empathy for those affected by the devastating fires, Kerr stated, “Everything I’m seeing and reading is just terrifying what’s happening down there. So, [I] just want to send thoughts to everyone who’s going through the devastation of the fire. Obviously the game is secondary to that and to many things in life. Perspective is important.”
The wildfires in the Los Angeles area have not only posed significant challenges for residents and families but have also disrupted the sports community, underscoring the far-reaching impact of natural disasters on various aspects of daily life. Amid the ongoing crisis, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected, including providing support and assistance to individuals and families navigating the challenges brought about by the wildfires.
