‘I’ve been completely off’: LeBron James admits wildfires have take mental toll
LeBron James says the wildfires that have killed at least 25 people and destroyed thousands of homes have taken a toll on his mental health.
His Los Angeles Lakers had lost three straight games before their home win over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, and James acknowledged that the fires had affected him. “I have some dear friends who lost their homes in the Palisades,” James said. “Obviously my heart goes out to all the families, not just in the Palisades, but throughout LA County and all surrounding areas due to the fire. … It’s been a lot of emotions. I’ve been a bit out of it. Personally, I’ve been away.
“I haven’t been there at all for obvious reasons, but hopefully things are under control or will remain under control. And hopefully at some point we can start to move forward and put it behind us and rebuild our city, rebuild this beautiful city.”
The fires disrupted the Lakers’ schedule, forcing the team into a six-day layoff before resuming play Monday, while the team’s coach, JJ Redick, lost his home to the fires. James said he hopes the team can bring some comfort to the city.
“I hope that by getting on the floor and playing the way we played tonight … and hopefully over the next few months or whatever it is, years, until the city gets back on its feet, that we as a Lakers franchise and the players who play for the Lakers bring a sense of hope, pride and excitement,” James said. “Sport has always given people the opportunity to temporarily forget what they have experienced. And because we’re such a big part of the LA community – along with a lot of other sports teams, but we know how important the Lakers are to the community – hopefully we can provide that to a lot of families.
James took time after the game to give one of his wristbands to a girl sitting courtside. He said he hopes such gestures will help the city as a whole.
“I think it will be something that hopefully she will never forget,” James said. “I’m happy to be part of her life now and that small moment, but such a bigger moment. And hopefully she will brag about it at school.”