Austin Reaves' rise from humble beginnings in Newark, Arkansas, to becoming a key contributor for the Los Angeles Lakers is a testament to his resilience and talent.
Reaves grew up on a cattle ranch in the Ozarks. As a child, he spent countless hours playing basketball in the driveway and on the local court. Despite the lack of formal training, Reaves developed an impressive skill set and a relentless work ethic.
Reaves attended Wichita State for three years, where he established himself as a versatile guard known for his shooting and defense. As a senior, he led the Shockers to the NCAA Tournament and earned All-AAC honors.
Despite his college success, Reaves went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft. However, he signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Lakers and impressed the coaching staff with his strong play in the Summer League.
Reaves made his NBA debut in the 2021-22 season and quickly became a fan favorite with his all-around contributions. He emerged as a reliable shooter, defender, and playmaker, helping the Lakers reach the NBA Finals.
"Austin is a rare breed of player," said Lakers coach Frank Vogel. "He brings toughness, intelligence, and a winning mentality."
"He's a great example of what hard work and determination can accomplish," added Lakers star LeBron James.
Reaves is now an integral part of the Lakers' rotation. With his continued development and the team's acquisition of high-profile stars like Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook, he has the potential to play a significant role in the Lakers' quest for an NBA championship.