USC
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Scout Report
When a 6-6 guard can handle the ball like a point guard and shoot over defenders with that kind of length, coaches take notice immediately. The fourth-ranked player in the 2025 class didn't waste any time making his college choice, already suiting up for USC as a freshman.
Background
Los Angeles basketball runs deep in the Arenas family blood, and Alijah represents the latest chapter in that legacy. Growing up in Chatsworth, he developed his game under the bright lights of LA prep basketball, where expectations are always sky-high. His path led him through the competitive Southern California AAU circuit before landing at Chatsworth High School. The family's athletic connections provided him with insights into high-level basketball from an early age, shaping his understanding of what it takes to compete at the next level.
Playing Style
Arenas plays with the confidence of a veteran despite his young age, using his 6-6 frame to create mismatches across multiple positions. He's comfortable initiating offense from the perimeter but equally effective working in mid-range spots where his length becomes a major advantage. His decision-making shows maturity beyond his years, rarely forcing bad shots even when defenses try to speed him up. Defensively, that wingspan allows him to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots effectively, though he's still learning to use his size more consistently on that end. He impacts winning through versatility rather than dominating any single aspect of the game. The tempo he plays at is controlled but decisive, understanding when to push pace and when to let the game come to him.
Strengths
The combination of size and skill set makes him a nightmare matchup for opposing coaches to solve. His shooting mechanics are smooth and consistent, with range that extends well beyond the college three-point line. Ball-handling is advanced for someone his size, allowing him to attack closeouts and create his own shot when needed. The basketball IQ jumps off the tape, making reads that most players his age simply don't see yet.
Areas to Watch
Adding functional strength will be crucial as he adjusts to the physical demands of college basketball, particularly when attacking the rim against bigger defenders. His defensive consistency needs refinement, using that length to impact every possession rather than in spurts. Developing more of a killer instinct on offense could elevate him from good player to special talent.
Player Comparison
There are shades of Devin Vassell in his game, particularly that smooth shooting stroke and the way he uses his length on both ends. Like Vassell, Arenas has the size to guard multiple positions while maintaining the skill set to create offense from the perimeter. The comparison fits because both players project as high-IQ wings who impact winning without needing the ball in their hands constantly.
Recruitment
The recruitment ended quickly once USC made their move, with Arenas already enrolled and playing for the Trojans as a freshman. Kansas and Alabama had pushed hard with recent offers, joining earlier suitors like Cal, Arizona, Kentucky, and Northwestern in the mix. His early commitment and enrollment suggest he was ready to begin his college career without the typical recruiting circus. The Trojans landed a foundational piece for their program's future.
Projection
He profiles as a future NBA wing if he continues developing that two-way impact and adds the necessary strength to his frame. The ceiling is a versatile role player who can guard multiple positions and space the floor at the professional level. College success seems almost guaranteed given his skill level and basketball IQ, with the potential to be a multi-year starter and program cornerstone for USC.
Updated Mar 18, 2026 · Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Career Journey
USC Trojans
COLLEGE • Big Ten
USC
COLLEGE
Chatsworth
PREP SCHOOL
Chatsworth High School
HIGH SCHOOL
Strive For Greatness
AAU
Compton Magic
AAU
Career Highlights
WENT OFF for a career-high 29 points in our win over Indiana
The freshman set a new career-high in points vs. Indiana
Alijah Arenas commits to USC
Five-star guard and son of Gilbert Arenas commits to the Trojans, choosing USC over Alabama, Kansas, and others.
Alijah Arenas & Gilbert Arenas workout 1 on 5 & Full court 1s - Alijah Arenas is getting close to a return
Enrolled at USC as freshman
Officially enrolled and joined the USC Trojans for the 2025-26 season.
Named to McDonald's All-American Game
Selected for the 2025 McDonald's All-American Game, one of the most prestigious honors in high school basketball.
Receives offer from Kansas
Offers
5
USC
Attending
Chose USC over 4 other offers
Cal
Arizona
Kentucky
NorthwesternOffers sourced from 247Sports and social media monitoring.
Social Activity
"Motorized Micah" 😂 Micah Parsons caught up with @LauraRutledge during the Pro Bowl Games. https://t.co/3JV1aG7J12
HAVE A NIGHT, ALIJAH ARENAS! 🤩 The freshman set a new career-high in points vs. Indiana 🔥 https://t.co/jHMRgVjeWY
These one-on-one matchups could tip the scales in deciding the Super Bowl champion 👀 From @BenjaminSolak 🗣️ https://t.co/X7AGHYsTnr
Lindsey Vonn, Nick Goepper, Gus Kenworthy and Maddy Schaffrick are in their golden years at the 2026 Olympics 🥇 Just don't call them old 😅 https://t.co/vLCRDkjw6z