In the world of sports, particularly in basketball, the blending of talent and family often leads to dynastic aspirations. This was precisely the sentiment former NBA player Matt Barnes expressed regarding his high school star twins, Carter and Isaiah, potentially teaming up with their cousin, Alijah Arenas, Gilbert Arenas’ son. The trio, united by family and basketball prowess, could have been a force on the court.
During an insightful discussion on the ‘No Chill with Gilbert Arenas’ podcast, Barnes shared his once hopeful vision for the trio. “I begged Gil, but Gill wouldn’t let Alijah play with the twins. I wanted the twins and Alijah to kind of play together because I feel like they could have won a national championship if they put his son with the twins and we had a couple other pieces,” Barnes disclosed. This candid revelation sheds light on what could have been an extraordinary chapter in high school basketball.
The Rising Stars: Profiles of the Next Generation
Alijah Arenas, standing tall at 6-foot-6 with a remarkable 7-foot wingspan, has been making waves at Chatsworth High School in California. His prowess as a steady two-way player has caught the eye of top college programs, leading to his commitment to play for USC. His skills on the court reflect a bright future that could potentially eclipse the legacy of his father, Gilbert Arenas, a former NBA standout known as ‘Agent Zero.’
Parallel to Alijah’s ascent in the basketball world, Matt Barnes’ twins, Carter and Isaiah, are crafting their own path at Crespi Carmelite High School in Encino, California. Both guards, they are showcasing skills that make them attractive prospects for college scouts, with expectations set high for their continued development and eventual college careers starting in 2027.
Family Support System: The Backbone of Their Journey
Behind these young athletes are their fathers, Matt Barnes and Gilbert Arenas, who not only share a bond through family but also a deep connection rooted in their basketball careers. Both fathers are actively involved in their sons’ basketball journeys, providing guidance and support. “He’s preached so much to us. He preached mental toughness, defense, offense, consistency, body language, even playing without the ball,” Isaiah Barnes shared about the lessons from his father.
Meanwhile, Gilbert Arenas has focused on instilling confidence in Alijah, urging him to carve out his own identity in the sport. “Don’t worry about trying to live up to my footsteps … as a high school player, you’re far better than me, so that pressure should be gone. Now, let’s just get better,” Arenas advised, highlighting his approach to nurturing his son’s talents.
The Unseen Championship Team
While the dream of having Carter, Isaiah, and Alijah playing together for a high school national championship remains unfulfilled, the story of these young athletes is just beginning. With their impressive backgrounds and the unwavering support of their NBA veteran fathers, the future holds promise. The paths they are paving may very well lead to their own legacies, possibly even redefining what it means to be successful in basketball. As they grow, so too does the anticipation of what they will achieve, both individually and perhaps one day, together.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.