Alijah Arenas, the rising basketball prodigy and son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas and media personality Laura Govan, has been making headlines for his impressive court skills and a significant recent decision.
The 6-foot-6 shooting guard, born on March 16, 2007, is currently a top-five recruit.
Ranked as the No. 1 shooting guard and No. 4 overall prospect in the 2026 class, Alijah is now reclassifying to the Class of 2025—a move that has sparked praise and controversy.
On Monday, Gilbert Arenas shared the big news during an episode of Gil’s Arena Podcast. “We’re reclassing up right now,” he said. “I think they just approved it today.”
This decision advances Alijah’s high school graduation date by a year, accelerating his path to college basketball and potentially the NBA.
Gilbert explained that this move has always been part of the plan, revealing that Alijah was held back in the second grade to allow further development.
Alijah Arenas’ Parents Are Well-Known Personalities In Sports And Media
Alijah’s parents, Gilbert Arenas and Laura Govan have shaped his athletic and personal journey.
Gilbert, known for his outstanding NBA career, including multiple All-Star selections, has been a guiding figure for Alijah.
As a father, he leverages his basketball knowledge to mentor his son, ensuring he’s prepared for the challenges of elite competition.
Laura Govan, a social media personality and TV star, brings a different kind of support.
Known for her dynamic personality and involvement in her children’s lives, she often shares glimpses of their family moments, showing how she balances encouraging her son’s dreams while ensuring he remains grounded.
The move to reclassify there has started mixed reactions online.
Some fans have applauded the decision as a strategic move aligned with Alijah’s growing potential, while others have criticized it as a rush to accelerate his career.
A Twitter user tweeted,
Education important. Gil don’t want his son to be seen as a dumb athlete even though he’s far from it
Via Twitter
Other Tweeted,
don’t think we ready for what it will to @GilsArenaShow
Via Twitter
ego if his son is even remotely close to him on the court talent/career wise ?
However, Gilbert believes this step will place his son on the right trajectory.
Gilbert emphasized the importance of foresight and planning when asked about his role in the decision. “It has always actually been a plan,” he said.
By reclassifying, Alijah will now have an earlier chance to compete at the college level and showcase his talent against top-tier opponents.
At 17, Alijah Had Already Made A Name For Himself Thanks To His Parents, Gilbert And Laura
Currently a standout at Chatsworth High School, Alijah has already captured the attention of major college programs.
Less than a week before the reclassification announcement, he received an offer from the University of Kentucky, a powerhouse in college basketball.
If Alijah completes the reclassification, he will become one of the top five recruits available in the 2025 class, making his college choice even more critical.
At just 17 years old, Alijah Arenas is guiding huge pressure and expectations.
Yet, with Gilbert’s expertise and Laura’s support, he seems well-prepared to tackle the challenges ahead.
Gilbert and Laura’s parenting styles reflect their commitment to Alijah’s success, both on and off the court.
Gilbert provides the tactical edge, drawing from his experience as a professional athlete, while Laura ensures Alijah remains connected to family values and a sense of normality.
Their shared efforts highlight the importance of parental influence in shaping young athletes’ futures.
As Alijah enters his senior year, filled with heightened competition and college recruitment, Gilbert and Laura’s support will remain the foundation of his success.
Alijah Arenas, with his natural talent and parental guidance, is suspended to carve his path in basketball history.
Whether fans agree or disagree with his family’s decisions, the Arenas family is fully invested in helping him achieve greatness.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Alijah Arenas has three other siblings, Hamiley, Izela, and Aloni, who are also into basketball.
- Alijah received the John R. Wooden High School Player of the Year Award in March 2024.
