Austin Reaves: The Rising Star of the Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers, a storied franchise with a history of basketball greatness, have a knack for discovering hidden gems amidst the sea of talent. One such discovery is Austin Reaves, a young shooting guard who's rapidly making a name for himself in the purple and gold. In this blog post, we delve into the history and profile of Austin Reaves, a player destined for greatness.

Early Life and College Journey

Born on May 29, 1998, in Newark, Arkansas, Austin Reaves' journey to the NBA was anything but conventional. Raised in a sports-loving family, Reaves displayed his basketball prowess early in life. He played high school basketball for Cedar Ridge High School, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of college recruiters.

Reaves committed to the University of Wichita State, where he began his college basketball career. In his sophomore season, he transferred to the University of Oklahoma, a decision that would prove pivotal for his development.

Oklahoma Sooners Stardom

Austin Reaves' time with the Oklahoma Sooners was marked by impressive performances and consistent improvement. During his two seasons at Oklahoma, Reaves showcased his versatility as a guard, adept at scoring, playmaking, and defending.

In his senior year, Reaves averaged 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, earning All-Big 12 First Team honors. His ability to impact various facets of the game caught the attention of NBA scouts, and his stock began to rise.

NBA Draft and Lakers Debut

Austin Reaves declared for the 2021 NBA Draft, where he went undrafted. However, this setback did not deter his determination. He quickly signed a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that would prove to be a game-changer.

Reaves' preseason performances impressed Lakers coaches and fans alike. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, his basketball IQ, and his fearlessness caught the eye of head coach Frank Vogel.

Lakers Impact and Playing Style

Standing at 6'5", Austin Reaves possesses a versatile skill set that makes him a valuable asset for the Lakers. He is known for his scoring ability, often delivering in clutch moments. Whether it's a three-pointer from beyond the arc or a drive to the basket, Reaves has a knack for getting the job done.

On the defensive end, Reaves displays tenacity and a strong work ethic. He's not afraid to get physical and can guard multiple positions, a trait highly valued in today's NBA.

A Promising Future

As Austin Reaves embarks on his NBA journey with the Los Angeles Lakers, the future looks bright. He represents the new breed of versatile guards who can impact the game in multiple ways.

With his dedication, strong work ethic, and a growing fan base, Austin Reaves is poised to make a significant mark in the NBA. Lakers fans have every reason to be excited about this rising star who embodies the spirit of the franchise.

So, keep an eye on the young shooting guard from Arkansas because Austin Reaves is on a trajectory to greatness, and his journey with the Lakers is only just beginning.