The Indiana Fever organization and the WNBA community are in support after a heartbreaking kitchen accident sent 2-year-old Zayn Kelly, son of assistant coach **Karima Christmas-Kelly**, to the hospital Sunday morning Sources close to the family report that the incident occurred at the Kelly family home in Indianapolis. Young Zayn, known for his playful energy and frequent appearances at Gainbridge Fieldhouse alongside his parents—Karima Christmas-Kelly and fellow assistant coach Austin Kelly—was reaching for a snack when he accidentally pulled a pot of boiling water from the stove countertop. The scalding liquid spilled over his upper body, causing severe burns to his chest, arms, and face.
Emergency responders rushed Zayn to Riley Hospital for Children, where he was immediately admitted to the burn unit. Doctors described his condition as serious but stable, noting that the quick actions of his parents likely prevented more catastrophic injuries. Karima, a former WNBA champion and beloved figure in the Fever locker room, was home at the time and applied cool compresses while awaiting paramedics. Austin, who had just returned from a team meeting, arrived moments later.
“The Fever family is devastated by this news,” said head coach Stephanie White in a statement released early Monday. “Zayn is a bright light in our lives—he’s at every practice, every game, bringing joy to players like Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston. Our thoughts and prayers are with Karima, Austin, and little Zayn as he begins his recovery.”
The accident has sent shockwaves through the team, coming just weeks after the Fever’s strong 2025 playoff run. Players and staff have flooded social media with messages of support, including photos and videos of Zayn’s happier moments, like toddling around the court or being hoisted by Clark during warm-ups.
Burn experts emphasize that kitchen accidents involving hot liquids are among the most common injuries for toddlers, often occurring in split-second unsupervised moments. The Kellys, like many young parents balancing demanding careers, had childproofed their home extensively, but tragedies can strike unexpectedly.
As of this morning, Zayn remains under close observation, undergoing skin graft procedures and pain management. A GoFundMe organized by Fever alumni has already raised over $50,000 for medical expenses and family support.
The Indiana Fever have postponed non-essential team activities this week to allow the coaching staff time with their son. The WNBA community continues to pour out love, reminding everyone of the fragility of life even amid professional triumphs
