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Bass’ allies, meanwhile, have taken aim at Caruso, painting him as one of several wealthy right-wingers who weaponized the Jan. 7 blaze and spread misinformation about the mayor.

In separate interviews at the event, reporters asked Bass and Caruso about their relationship.

Strong Sports, a group started by Lakers coach JJ Redick, a Palisades resident who coached a youth basketball team at the center.

Redick, who also appeared at Thursday’s event, said the rebuilt recreation center will be “the cornerstone of this community.”

At the Thursday event, Caruso said he’s friends with Bass and that they’ve known each other for 30 years.