In a touching display of camaraderie, NBA stars Chris Paul and Victor Wembanyama recently presented game jerseys to JJ Redick's sons, Knox and Kai, after learning about the devastating fire that destroyed the Redick family's home in Pacific Palisades. The fire, which also ravaged much of their neighborhood, left the Redick family with little more than memories of the cherished basketball memorabilia collection that Knox and Kai had built over the years.
Chris Paul, known for his close friendship with JJ Redick from their time as teammates on the LA Clippers, reached out to offer his support shortly after the tragedy. Understanding the gravity of the loss, Paul offered to give his jerseys to Knox and Kai, who are avid basketball fans with a passion for collecting NBA jerseys, trading cards, and autographs.
"You play a lot of years in this league and some guys are just teammates, but JJ is part of my family," said Paul.
The gesture was made official after a game between the Spurs and the Lakers when Paul, along with his teammate Victor Wembanyama, handed over their jerseys to the Redick boys. The act of kindness brought smiles to Knox and Kai's faces, offering a glimmer of joy amidst their recent hardships.
"So me and JJ are ultimate competitors. As close as we are, we hate to lose, win, or whatnot. But I actually told him today that I wanted to do that for his boys," Paul added.
JJ Redick, currently a shooting guard, podcaster, and coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support his family has received since the fire.
"I've been overwhelmed with the amount of support and love and generosity that people have shown to me and my family, and really all families that have been affected by this," Redick remarked.
The wildfires not only impacted Redick's family but also put several of his players under evacuation warnings. The ongoing challenges highlight the importance of community and support during such difficult times.
"When you've been in the league long enough, you have this big circle, and it's people you like, people you love and then it's your brothers — and Chris is in that inner-inner circle of brothers," Redick noted.
Victor Wembanyama echoed similar sentiments regarding his involvement in this heartfelt gesture.
"I didn't know they were huge fans like this, but JJ is a person that I like and who was directly impacted by this. So if I can make those kids' day, I'll do it," Wembanyama stated.
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