USC women’s basketball recruit Aaliyah Gayles is hospitalized after she was shot multiple times at a party in Las Vegas, NV on Saturday.
Gayles, 18, was among the nation’s top girls basketball players at Michael Jordan’s invite-only Jordan Brand Classic basketball camp over the weekend. The point guard was ranked No. 8 in the country by ESPN.
The USC recruit and senior at Spring Valley High School was shot 10 times at a house party in Las Vegas over the weekend.
Four people were shot, including two minors, sources told the Review-Journal on Sunday. They are expected to survive.
The NY Post reports Gayles underwent two emergency surgeries late Saturday night. She was listed in serious condition after suffering gunshot wounds to her abdomen and legs.
Gayles’ father, Dwight Gayles blamed himself for his daughter’s thug life.
“I know there is some that will say it’s my fault and I take full responsibility for it but please please keep my baby girl in your prayers Las Vegas,” Dwight tweeted along with a photo of him holding baby Aaliyah. “I will give everyone that support Aaliyah an update but she’s ok she go make it like always thank you all, true warrior.”
I know there is some that will say it's my fault and I take full responsibility for it but please please keep my baby girl in your prayers Las Vegas. I will give everyone that support Aaliyah an update but she's ok she go make it like always thank you all??? true warrior pic.twitter.com/NxtSFc5Wyv
— D.Gayles (@DGayles3) April 17, 2022
Dwight confirmed to Fox 5 News that Aaliyah was shot 10 times, She is scheduled to undergo more surgery on Monday, April 18.
USC women’s basketball coach Lindsay Gottlieb issued a statement to ESPN.
“Aaliyah is one of the strongest, most resilient young people I have ever known. I have no doubt she will continue to face this unfathomable situation with courage and resolve. We will continue to support her and her parents in every way that we possibly can.”
Gayles was the first Las Vegas Valley player to be named a McDonald’s All American since 2010.
No arrests have been made in the shooting. A GofundMe has been created to help pay Aaliyah’s medical expenses.