Alijah Arenas, son of former NBA player Gilbert Arenas, is preparing to enter his sophomore year at USC amid a promising yet tumultuous path toward the NBA. Last season, he faced significant hurdles after a car accident sidelined him until December. He sought to make a comeback with the Trojans, playing in 14 games where he averaged 14 points, two rebounds, and two assists on shooting splits of 34-21-79. Given the challenges he encountered, many evaluators were lenient regarding his performance.
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Standing at 6 feet 6 inches, Arenas is regarded as a jumbo-sized combo guard with notable defensive abilities. His playing style, characterized by isolation plays and difficult shot-making, has sparked debate among scouts. Although he shot 41% on rim attempts, his 29% from catch-and-shoot three-pointers raises concerns about his efficiency as a guard.
Despite struggling with consistency last season, Arenas showcased offensive creativity and versatility, though he did not have an off-season for skill development. Unlike many scorers, Arenas plays with high energy, highlighting a commitment to defense alongside his scoring aspirations. This dual focus on both ends of the court is rare for players with similar scoring profiles.
Arenas possesses the physical tools—size, length, and athleticism—necessary to become an effective defender at the NBA level, a critical asset as he attempts to carve out a role in the league. While his offensive skills make him one of the standout prospects in the 2027 draft class, there are lingering questions about the viability of his playing style for long-term success in the NBA. He will need to demonstrate greater efficiency or adapt to a more defensive role to secure a spot in the league.