The recent wildfire in Pacific Palisades has devastated the community, displacing thousands and claiming several lives. However, amidst this tragedy, the spirit of unity has emerged strongly, particularly within the local high school basketball scene. Both the boys' and girls' teams from Palisades Charter High School have received overwhelming support from neighboring schools and the broader basketball community. With their home facilities rendered unusable, these teams are now set to resume practice at alternate locations, thanks to the generosity of nearby institutions. This outpouring of support highlights the resilience and solidarity that can arise in times of crisis.
The Palisades fire, which began on Tuesday, has left an indelible mark on the Pacific Palisades area, burning over 23,000 acres and forcing residents to evacuate. Despite the destruction, the basketball community has rallied around the affected students and coaches. Coach Jeff Bryant of the boys' team announced that practices would commence at Memorial Park in Santa Monica starting Monday. Meanwhile, the girls' team, under the guidance of Coach Adam Levine, will begin practicing at Brentwood School on Tuesday. These arrangements underscore the determination of both teams to return to normalcy as quickly as possible.
Ayla Teegardin, a junior on the girls' team, lost her home in the fire but has been instrumental in motivating her teammates to get back on the court. "When I asked the girls how soon they wanted to start playing, everyone was eager to get going," said Levine. The response from other schools and coaches has been equally inspiring. Over 40 coaches have reached out to offer assistance, whether through providing gym time or donations. Schools such as Mira Costa, Culver City, Ventura, Rolling Hills Prep, El Camino Real, Viewpoint, Burbank/Burroughs, Campbell Hall, and even Lake Washington Kangs in Kirkland, Washington, have extended their support.
The flexibility offered by Palisades Charter High School, as an independent charter under LAUSD, has allowed for quicker adjustments compared to traditional public schools. While LAUSD initially restricted athletic activities following the fire, it is expected that these restrictions will be lifted by mid-week. Once cleared, Palisades could potentially play away games, including a scheduled match with Hamilton on Friday. Coaches Bryant and Levine are prepared for their teams to become "road warriors" for the remainder of the season. This period of transition showcases not only the adaptability of the student-athletes but also the unwavering support of the basketball community.
The resilience displayed by the Palisades Charter High School basketball teams exemplifies the power of community in overcoming adversity. As they prepare to hit the court once again, the support from neighboring schools and coaches has provided a beacon of hope and normalcy for the students. Through this challenging time, the basketball community has shown that together, they can rise above any obstacle, fostering a spirit of unity and perseverance.