Izela Samaya Arenas: Introduction
Women’s collegiate basketball star Izela Samaya Arenas, born December 24, 2005, is rising fast. Izela comes from a sporty family, including former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas and collegiate basketball standout Laura Govan. Her rise from high school stardom to college competition shows her talent and drive. As she plays college basketball, Izela represents the Arenas family’s next generation of dedicated basketball players.
Early Life and Family Influence
Izela was raised with basketball in daily life. Her father, Gilbert Arenas, known as “Agent Zero,” played for the Golden State Warriors, Washington Wizards, Orlando Magic, and Memphis Grizzlies. Gilbert, a three-time NBA All-Star, was named NBA Most Improved Player in 2002-03 for his clutch play. He hosted the popular podcast “Gil’s Arena” and coached in BIG3 after retiring.
Her mother, Laura Govan, played college basketball at New Mexico State University and later became a reality TV personality on “Basketball Wives LA.” With a degree in International Business and a master’s in Sports Psychology, Laura has also launched her jewelry line. The Arenas household fostered a competitive spirit and love for basketball, significantly shaping Izela’s upbringing and ambitions.
High School Achievements
Izela attended Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth, California, where she quickly established herself as one of the nation’s top high school basketball prospects. In her junior year, she led the team to a No. 1 national ranking with a 31-1 record, securing the CIF Open Division, CIF State Open Division, and ESPN national championships. Her outstanding performances earned her the title at Overtime Elite’s Queen of the Court in Atlanta, solidifying her status as a top-100 recruit.
College Career
In 2024, Izela joined the University of Louisville Cardinals as a freshman guard. Throughout the 2024-25 season, she participated in 29 games, averaging 11.9 minutes and contributing 4.2 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game. Her shooting was measured at 41.8% from the field, 38.5% from three-point range, and 75.0% from the free-throw line. Izela showcased her potential in a notable 9-point game during a 35-minute match against Clemson on March 6, 2025. Reports on March 25, 2025, indicated Izela entered the transfer portal, hinting at a possible change in her collegiate program, reflecting her ambition to find optimal growth opportunities.
| Izela Arenas 2024-25 Season Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 29 |
| Minutes per Game | 11.9 |
| Points per Game | 4.2 |
| Rebounds per Game | 1.2 |
| Assists per Game | 0.9 |
| Field Goal % | 41.8% |
| Three-Point % | 38.5% |
| Free Throw % | 75.0% |
The Arenas Family
Izela is one of five children of Gilbert Arenas. Alongside siblings Alijah, Hamiley, Aloni, and Gia, the family exhibits remarkable athletic prowess, with several siblings pursuing basketball careers.
Gilbert Arenas: The NBA Star
The NBA career of Tampa native Gilbert Arenas, born January 6, 1982, was successful. He made three All-NBA teams with the Washington Wizards after being draughted by the Golden State Warriors in 2001. Gilbert, known as “Hibachi,” was suspended in 2009-10 for handgun violations despite his scoring prowess. His sports media career includes co-hosting “Nightcap” with Shannon Sharpe post-NBA.
Laura Govan: Athlete and Entrepreneur
New Mexico State University awarded Laura Govan, born September 21, 1979, in Oakland, California, a full sports scholarship for her early basketball success. Her Sacramento Kings PR job introduced her to Gilbert Arenas. After becoming famous on ‘Basketball Wives LA’, Laura started a jewellery company.
Alijah Arenas: Rising Star
Five-star USC basketball recruit Alijah Arenas was born March 16, 2007. In his sophomore season, he averaged 33 points and 8.6 rebounds and became the first Los Angeles high school boys’ basketball player to exceed 3,000 points. Alijah, selected for the 2025 McDonald’s All-American Game, is recovering from a terrible vehicle crash on April 24, 2025.
| Alijah Arenas High School Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 97 |
| Points per Game | 30.9 |
| Assists per Game | 2.8 |
| Rebounds per Game | 7.8 |
| Steals per Game | 1.5 |
| Blocks per Game | 1.0 |
Hamiley Arenas: Emerging Talent
Hamiley Arenas, born December 9, 2009, is a freshman at Notre Dame Sherman Oaks High School. She made a significant impact in her high school debut, scoring 27 points, 13 rebounds, and 6 assists, followed by a 22-point, 17-rebound performance against Venice. Her impressive results suggest she is another Arenas sibling to watch in basketball.
Aloni Arenas: Young Prospect
Gilbert and Laura’s youngest son, Aloni Arenas, is a 2030 point guard for Compton Magic in the 3SSB league. Aloni is young but shows promise in basketball training videos showing his dribbling and scoring.
Gia Arenas: The Youngest Sibling
Gia Arenas is Gilbert’s daughter with Lindsay Faulk, his former girlfriend and the ex-wife of NFL player Marshall Faulk. Limited public information is available about Gia, but she is part of the Arenas family, with Lindsay Faulk praising Gilbert’s supportive role as a father.
FAQ
Who is Izela Samaya Arenas?
Izela Samaya Arenas is a promising women’s college basketball player, currently at the University of Louisville, known for her athletic potential and family legacy in basketball.
How is Izela doing in college basketball?
As of March 25, 2025, Izela has entered the transfer portal, indicating she may be seeking a new program to further develop her skills.
What are Izela’s 2024-25 season stats?
Izela averaged 4.2 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game, playing 29 games in her freshman season at Louisville.
Who are Izela’s famous parents?
Gilbert Arenas, a former NBA All-Star, and Laura Govan, a college basketball player and reality TV star, are Izela’s parents.
How many siblings does Izela have?
Izela has four siblings: Alijah, Hamiley, Aloni, and Gia, with the first three actively involved in basketball.
