When Mother Nature decides to play her own version of “Survivor,” Los Angeles often finds itself cast as the unwilling contestant. The city is once again under siege by relentless wildfires, leaving devastation, displacement, and chaos in their wake. WNBA superstar A’ja Wilson, ever the compassionate queen, took a moment from her offseason recovery to offer up her prayers for LA. She posted an aerial image of the fire-ravaged city on Instagram, captioned with a solemn prayer emoji—because sometimes, words just aren’t enough when your city looks like an apocalyptic movie set.
The harrowing view from the skies isn’t for the faint-hearted. Reports suggest over 100,000 residents have been displaced, and the wildfire continues its unruly march across Southern California. “Terrible” was the blunt assessment of Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier, echoing the sentiments of millions.
Sports Shuffle: Who Plays Where Now?
While residents flee the flames, LA’s sports teams are busy relocating their showdowns. The LA Rams’ highly anticipated Monday night playoff clash against the Minnesota Vikings has been shifted to Arizona. Apparently, wildfires don’t recognize home-field advantage. The Rams’ neighbors, the Lakers, also postponed their game, leaving fans to twiddle their thumbs while scrolling Twitter for updates.
But it’s not just the NFL and NBA feeling the heat—literally. Figures across the sports world have spoken out, from Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr to Lakers head coach JJ Redick. Even the famously quiet Kawhi Leonard reportedly said something (a rare occurrence), proving that wildfires have a unique way of sparking emotion in everyone.
A’ja Wilson: The Rest Queen Declines Unrivaled
While LA burns and sports schedules crumble, A’ja Wilson is prioritizing something else entirely: rest. The three-time WNBA MVP has opted out of the high-profile 3×3 tournament “Unrivaled,” and honestly, who can blame her? “She doesn’t want to play year-round,” a source close to Wilson revealed. Translation: she’s saving her energy for the games that actually matter.
Wilson has had a whirlwind 2024, balancing her commitments with the Las Vegas Aces and Team USA. After winning Olympic gold in Paris and leading the Aces to the playoffs (before the New York Liberty rudely ended their title hopes), she’s earned the right to some quality me-time. And with averages of 26.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game last season, Wilson doesn’t need a 3×3 tournament to prove she’s the boss.
What’s Next?
As LA continues to wrestle with its fiery foe, the sports world will inevitably adjust, adapt, and soldier on. And as for A’ja Wilson? She’ll be back soon, ready to lead the Aces in their quest for another title—and maybe throw in a fourth MVP just for fun.
In the meantime, let’s hope the wildfire season ends before California runs out of stadiums to host its games. As the old saying goes: when life gives you lemons, pray it doesn’t come with a side of wildfire.
