In a heartbreaking development for USC basketball and fans of rising star Alijah Arenas, it has been confirmed that the highly touted recruit has suffered a torn meniscus. The injury is expected to sideline him for the entirety of the 2025–26 college basketball season.
The setback comes just months after Arenas was placed in a medically induced coma following a near-fatal car accident, making this yet another chapter in what has already been an extraordinarily difficult year for the young athlete.
Arenas, son of former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, was one of the most anticipated players in USC’s incoming freshman class. Known for his explosive scoring ability, high basketball IQ, and relentless work ethic, Alijah had drawn comparisons to some of the best college prospects in recent years.
His commitment to USC was seen as a major win for the Trojans’ program, especially following their recent push to become a national powerhouse in the NCAA.
The torn meniscus injury was reportedly sustained during a workout as Arenas was continuing his rehabilitation and return to peak form following the devastating car accident earlier in the year.
Medical evaluations have confirmed that the tear will require surgery and a lengthy recovery period. Given the timing of the injury and the required rehabilitation process, USC officials and Arenas’ family have collectively decided that he will redshirt the 2025–26 season to prioritize long-term health and full recovery.
This is a significant blow, both for Arenas personally and for USC’s roster. For Alijah, the injury delays the start of his highly anticipated collegiate career and adds another hurdle to what has already been an emotional and physically demanding journey.
For USC, it means they’ll be without one of their most electric incoming talents, whose impact on the court was expected to be immediate. Arenas’ battle with adversity began earlier this year when he was involved in a fiery car crash that left him in critical condition.
He was placed in a medically induced coma for several days while undergoing multiple surgeries. Against the odds, he began a slow but determined recovery, stunning doctors and earning praise from the basketball community for his resilience and mental toughness.
The outpouring of support following today’s news has been widespread. Gilbert Arenas shared a message on social media expressing pride in his son’s courage and optimism. “This is just another detour on a long road to greatness,” he wrote. “We’ve been through worse, and Alijah will come back stronger.”
USC head coach Andy Enfield also expressed his support, stating, “We’re fully behind Alijah and his family. His health and future are our top priorities, and we can’t wait to see him thrive once he’s fully ready.”
While the injury will delay Arenas’ college debut, his story is far from over. In many ways, it’s just beginning. As he begins another recovery journey, the basketball world will be watching — and rooting — for his comeback.
