Former UCLA basketball stars and current NBA players with the Miami HEAT, Kevin Love and Jaime Jaquez, express their support and heartfelt gratitude to the courageous LAFD firefighters, and other victims, who lost their homes in the January 2025 Eaton Fire. For one, these fires hit close to home.
Less than a week after the fatal and devastating Pacific Palisades and Eaton wildfires, they traveled with the Miami HEAT to Los Angeles. Watch what they have to say about the tragic losses.
Former UCLA Bruin Basketball Stars Pledge Support for Firefighters
Kevin Love (UCLA 2007-2008), Miami HEAT center and member of the 2012 USA Olympic gold medal basketball team and Jaime Jaquez, (UCLA 2019-2023), Miami HEAT forward, were stunned by the devastation of the deadly fires. The former Bruins offered prayers and thanks and pledged support for the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund. Jaquez personally thanked all the firefighter heroes fighting these deadly and devastating fires.
“Frustrating to see, but I’m praying for all the families that are affected and thanks for all the firefighters who put their lives on the line, trying to help do what they can,” he said.
Miami HEAT NBA Players Thank LAFD Heroes
“It’s tough to put into words the devastation that’s happened through these fires,” said Love. “So, we’re just praying for those people, trying to help out wherever we can, provide resources.
The fires hit close to home for Love and Jaquez, as they watched neighborhoods near UCLA reduced to rubble. Seeing it is nothing less than devastating. On their first visit to Los Angeles since the wildfires, the NBA stars voiced their support for the LAFD heroes and their commitment to helping firefighters in need—some of whom lost their homes and everything they owned while risking their lives to protect others. By supporting the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund, Love and Jaquez hope to make a meaningful impact on the lives of these brave first responders and their families.
