In women’s college basketball, Izela Samaya Arenas is a rising star. She was born on December 24, 2005, into a basketball household. As the daughter of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas and former college basketball player Laura Govan, Izela was raised to love basketball.
Background and Early Career
Her father’s three NBA All-Star selections and her mother’s competitive college years at New Mexico State University motivated Izela, who grew up in a basketball-loving family. This familial tradition helped Izela flourish on the court as a child.
Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth, California, boosted her potential. Izela led her high school team to a No. 1 national rating in her junior year. Her team won the CIF Open Division, CIF State Open Division, and ESPN national Championships with a 31-1 record. Her success in Overtime Elite’s Queen of the Court in Atlanta proved her expertise and made her a prized recruit. Her stellar high school success led to her 2023 commitment to Louisville.
College Success
Izela joined the Louisville Cardinals in 2024-25 with desire and composure. As a freshman guard, she established herself. The season-high 13 points Izela scored against Grambling State on December 14, 2024, included many accurate three-pointers. This performance showed her confidence, midrange and long-distance shooting skills, and left-hand improvement, which improves her games.
Her on-court talents have helped the Cardinals this season. Her young enthusiasm and purposeful growth make her a future major player in her team’s lineup and the ACC.
Family Influence and Recent News
The Arenas family, a basketball dynasty, influenced Izela’s career. Gilbert Arenas, her father, is still a famous basketball figure, offering his ideas on his popular podcast and celebrating new accomplishments. Gilbert married French social media personality Melli Monaco in January 2025, starting a new journey.
Laura Govan, Izela’s mother, has always supported her kids’ sports. Laura, known for her caring supervision and active social media presence, has repeatedly expressed her delight in Izela’s achievements, calling her one of the country’s top talents. This constant support has strengthened Izela and shown the family’s commitment to basketball excellence.
Izela’s younger brother Alijah Arenas shares the family’s passion for sports. Alijah is likely to reclassify from 2026 to 2025 at 6-foot-5 and shows great shooting guard potential. Given his talent and many college offers from elite institutions, this decision illustrates the Arenas family’s basketball heritage.
Looking Ahead
At 19, Izela Samaya Arenas might change women’s collegiate basketball. Her outstanding high school record and strong start at Louisville might make her an ACC and beyond star.
Coaches, teammates, and fans will keenly follow her growth. As she adjusts to collegiate competition, her dedication on the floor should lead to a successful career. Additionally, the Arenas family’s solid support structure gives Izela and her brother Alijah the guidance and foundation they need to succeed in the sport.
FAQ
Izela Samaya Arenas’ background?
Basketball-loving parents gave birth to Izela Samaya Arenas on December 24, 2005. She was raised by former NBA great Gilbert Arenas and college basketball player Laura Govan, who promoted her love of the game.
Where did Izela excel in high school?
Izela excelled at Sierra Canyon School in California. With a 31-1 record, she led her team to a No. 1 national rating and won the CIF Open, CIF State Open, and ESPN national crowns.
How is Izela doing at college?
Izela has emerged as a bright freshman guard for Louisville in 2024-25. On December 14, 2024, she scored a season-high 13 points against Grambling State, demonstrating her shooting and playmaking potential.
How does family affect her career?
A strong basketball family heritage helps Izela. Her father is still important in the sport, and her mother has always encouraged her. Her younger brother Alijah is also a high prospect, demonstrating the family’s dedication to basketball.
The future of Izela Samaya Arenas?
At 19, Izela’s high school and college accomplishments promise a bright future. With her progress and family support, she is on track to become a collegiate star and even a professional women’s basketball player.
