Around 16,000 homes and other structures were destroyed in the recent Los Angeles wildfires in January, displacing approximately 150,000 residents. This tragedy led to the loss of invaluable possessions that could never be replaced.
On Wednesday’s edition of NBA Today on ESPN, broadcasted from their L.A. Live studio, diehard Lakers fans Nick Angelich and his eight-year-old son, George, shared their experience with the devastating Palisades fire, where they were among those who lost their home. Among their losses was a signed Robert Horry jersey that held sentimental value. Nick described it on the show, saying, “Yeah, it’s a jersey that we have had for a long time, signed by Robert Horry, big shot Rob, Lakers legend. Unfortunately, we didn’t bring it out along with the rest of the things. It’s one of the many things that we miss.”
The Angelich family initially believed they were attending the show just to enjoy the experience. However, the crew at NBA Today had a surprise in store, bringing Robert Horry into the studio with a jersey that he would sign. Host Malika Andrews informed them, “You thought you were coming here to hang out with us on NBA Today. We loved having you here. But we also wanted to make sure that we could do a very, very small part in helping you rebuild. So, we have Robert Horry here in studio with a jersey just for you, George.”
“What’s up, George?” Horry said as he made his entrance. “How are you doing, brother? You think you can wear this?”
The highlight of NBA Today 💜✨
8-year-old George and his dad, Nick, lost their signed Robert Horry jersey in the Palisades fire in January when their home burned down. We were able to help him receive another one from Big Shot Bob himself. pic.twitter.com/HDWYbMTNRC
— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) April 16, 2025
While this kind gesture won’t restore all that the Angelich family lost or alleviate their emotional pain caused by the fires, it may bring a ray of hope and a smile as they begin the difficult journey of rebuilding their lives after such a profound loss.
