Draft:Alijah Arenas

Alijah Arenas:

Alijah Arenas (born March 16, 2007) is an American basketball player that currently attends Chatsworth High School in Chatsworth, Carolina. He's is currently a consensus five-star recruit in the 2027 NBA Draft Class.

Early Life and Family

Alijah Arenas was born in Chatsworth, Carolina, to former NBA player Gilbert Arenas and Laura Govan. Raised in a family with a strong basketball legacy, Alijah's early exposure to the sport came naturally. His father, Gilbert Arenas, had a distinguished career in the NBA, primarily with the Washington Wizards, and was known for his scoring ability and clutch performances.

Basketball Career

Alijah Arenas has been recognized for his basketball talent from a young age. Following in his father's footsteps, Alijah has made a name for himself in high school basketball, showing promise as a rising star. He plays for Chatsworth High School, where he has been a standout player, drawing attention for his scoring ability, athleticism, and basketball IQ. Some of these performances include the high school record of 53 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in Chatsworth's 74-69 regional semifinal win over Washington Prep. Alijah was 15 of 26 from 2-point territory and 2 of 5 from the 3-point line. He could've scored more, but missed nine free throws, going 17 of 26 from the free throw line. The 53-point mark is the second-most points he's scored in a game. He scored 56 in a game last year as a freshman. Gilbert Arenas' high school career-high was 50, so beating his dad is an immaculate achievement and showing he has lots of potential.

Playing Style

Alijah's playing style reflects a combination of his father's influence and his unique approach to the game. Known for his versatility on the court, he can play multiple positions effectively. His ability to score from various spots on the floor, coupled with his defensive skills, makes him a well-rounded player. Alijah's work ethic and dedication to improving his game have been noted by coaches and scouts alike.

Future Prospects

Alijah Arenas is considered one of the top prospects in his class, with potential to play at the collegiate level and beyond and work towards the NBA. His performances have showed interest from several college basketball programs, and he is expected to make a significant impact in the sport in the coming years. The NBA Draft Room is projecting him to go 3rd overall in the 2027 NBA Draft.

personal Life

Outside of basketball, Alijah is known for his strong work ethic and commitment to his education. He maintains a balance between his academic responsibilities and his athletic pursuits, with a focus on personal development and growth.