"He has luxury": 3x NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas opens up about the differences in opportunities between him and his son Alijah Arenas 

Gilbert Arenas' son, Alijah Arenas, is one of the most talented recruits in the class of 2026. He ranks first nationally at his position and third overall in the western region and his state. The Chatsworth High School senior received a 98.76 On3 Industry ranking.

In a YouTube video posted by Susosu Water, Alijah and his dad discussed topics ranging from their favorite hobbies to father-and-son challenges. He also fielded questions about his work ethic. Finally, Gilbert mentioned the training advantages his son enjoys that the 42-year-old didn't have before entering college (6:00 - 6:40):

"I came from the era where there was really no trainers. It was more of self-motivating, understanding that if I want something, I have to work on it every single day, every single minute, while falling in love with the process.

"Unfortunately, he doesn't have the same. He has luxury. He doesn't have to starve for something. So, with him, it's trying to give him the understanding that he's privileged so you have to have another type of hunger."

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How did Alijah Arenas perform last season?

Arenas averaged 33.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.3 steals in 35 games last year for Chatsworth High School.

He also led his team to the Southern California Regional Division IV title in March, scoring 21 points and grabbing 18 rebounds.

However, the Chancellors lost to Monterey in the CIF State Championship. Alijah Arenas talked about Chatsworth's loss in the postgame presser despite his record-breaking performance:

"I am very grateful. I am very blessed to be in this situation. I felt good knowing that I did something leaving." I wish I could have left here with the win. I could have left here knowing I could have done that for my team. I feel like we really played hard and gave it our all."

Arenas has one year before he begins his collegiate journey. He's already received offers from several top programs, though. In 2023, Washington, Arizona State, California, Nebraska, Virginia Tech, Arizona and Alabama officially contacted the 6'6 shooting guard.

The 17-year-old will only improve as he continues adding lean muscle and explosive athleticism.