Gilbert Arenas lists challenges son Alijah Arenas faced before reclassifying for 2025 class: "Held him back in second grade"

Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas revealed on Monday that his son, Alijah, is reclassifying to the 2025 class. This means his current year will be his senior year in high school, bringing him closer to fulfilling his dream of making it to the league. Arenas announced the news on his show "Gil's Arena."

"We're reclassing up right now," Arenas said. "I think they just approved it today ... This is his senior year now."

Arenas said Alijah enrolled at New Village Leadership Academy, a school established by actor Will Smith because its teaching approach differs significantly from that of traditional schools.

However, the son of the three-time All-Star had to transfer to Sierra Canyon when the academy shut down in 2013.

"When that school failed, he went to Sierra Canyon, they held him back (in) second grade," Gilbert said. "This whole time, once he became a basketball player, it's like, 'Well, you need to catch back up to your... regular group."

In the show, Arenas was asked if Alijah could still participate in the McDonald's All-American Game. The All-Star game features the nation's top high school prospects before they start their college careers.

"That's what we're really fighting over. I think the principal, counselor granted his schedule. But we had to do it before the 30th... So, he can play McDonald's."

The high school phenom has received offers from the Alabama Crimson Tide, Arizona Wildcats, Arizona State Sun Devils, California Golden Bears and Fresno State Bulldogs.

---

Gilbert Arenas explained how he trains his son Alijah

Gilbert Arenas' son is one of the best young stars in the country. At 6-foot-6, the young guard has emerged as one of the best scorers. In Arenas' recent appearance on "The Pivot Podcast," the former NBA star revealed how he trains his son.

According to him, he "instilled a competitive nature" in his son. Arenas said he wants his son to focus on being the best, not minding the accolades or the money. He also mentioned that he wants Alijah to love the game to continue working on his craft.

In July, the younger Arenas participated in the Adidas 3SSB and played six games. During that stretch, he averaged 22.0 points and 4.2 rebounds on 46% shooting from beyond the arc.