As Los Angeles continues to grapple with devastating wildfires, USC student-athletes are taking action through recent NIL engagements with House of Victory to support emergency relief efforts. Working alongside local nonprofits including Impact LA, ANE Foundation, AFTP Foundation, athletes from the football and women's basketball teams are supporting efforts at a 24-hour emergency evacuation shelter at 9thirtyLA in the Arts District.

This shelter serves as a crucial distribution hub, providing essential items and temporary shelter for both evacuees and first responders. House of Victory athletes have taken on vital roles sorting inbound donations with essential items and supplies and organizing hundreds of boxes for distribution to shelters across affected areas.

Read more here about these recent community events. As the recovery process continues, House of Victory remains committed to connecting student-athletes with opportunities to serve their community and support ongoing fire relief efforts. You can make a tax-deductible contribution to support the work of House of Victory athletes with deserving charitable organizations here.

WHERE TOMORROW’S TECH COMPANIES MEET NOW

I’ve Already Won

By Josh Cohen

Being an athlete is often boiled down to wins and losses. Points, rebounds, turnovers. The numbers and the statistics. But every time I put my jersey on and step on the floor, I know that I’ve already won the game before we even tip off. 

When people see my last name, people always think I’m a Jewish basketball player. My dad and his whole side of the family are, so I get it. My mom and her side of the family are Christian, though. I’m a devout Christian and that’s never going to change.

I don’t want people to remember me for the number of wins and losses I’m part of on the basketball court. I want people to remember how I walk with Christ and how I help others and the type of man that I am.

I’ve participated in a few community events during my time in LA with House of Victory but without a doubt, my favorite has been the Angel City Wheelchair Basketball clinic. There was one participant who was just out there rocking and rolling. He was super enthusiastic about the game, and it was so inspiring to see. Isaac and I made a true connection that has lasted far beyond the end of that event. I’ve had them out to several games and it’s really impactful knowing they are in the stands rooting for me.

This is what matters. This is what’s important. It’s about meaningful and impactful relationships. It’s about walking with Christ and leading by example. It’s not just about wins and losses. Besides, I’ve already won. 

Through a corporate partnership with Niagara Water, football stars Jaylin Smith and Ja'Kobi Lane are participating in an ongoing marketing campaign to express their commitment to health and wellness on and off the football field. As athletes, staying hydrated is key, and Jaylin and Ja’Kobi shared their stories about how they’ve been able to get to where they are today.

You can catch Ja’Kobi’s story here. Keep an eye out for Jaylin’s story soon on Instagram with Niagara Water and House of Victory.

REVOLUTIONIZING THE WATCH GAME

The latest episode of the Triple Double Podcast brings listeners an exclusive conversation with guard Desmond Claude, after the Trojans’ recent Big Ten wins. From the Muss Buss, to team chemistry and everything in between, Claude joins the show to give unique insight in the midst of conference play.

TEQUILA ROOTED IN HISTORY AND PASSION