Austin Reaves: From College Standout To NBA Star

Austin Reaves' journey to the NBA is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and a relentless dedication to improving his game. Before gracing the courts of the NBA, Reaves carved out an impressive college career, showcasing his versatility and scoring ability. Let's dive into the college years that laid the foundation for his professional success.

Early Years at Wichita State

Making a Name for Himself

Austin Reaves initially committed to Wichita State, where he spent his first two college seasons. During his freshman year, Reaves didn't immediately explode onto the scene, but he showed glimpses of his potential. He appeared in 33 games, averaging 4.1 points per game. While these numbers might seem modest, it was evident that Reaves possessed a natural feel for the game. His sophomore season saw an increase in his role and production. He started in 20 games and averaged 8.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists. This improvement showcased his developing skills and growing confidence. One of the standout moments during his time at Wichita State was his ability to score in various ways. He could knock down shots from beyond the arc, drive to the basket, and create opportunities for his teammates. Although his time at Wichita State was relatively short, it was a crucial period in his development. He learned the ropes of college basketball, adapted to the physicality of the game, and began to understand what it took to compete at a high level. These early experiences shaped his work ethic and laid the groundwork for his future success. His time at Wichita State provided the platform to grow and refine his skills, setting the stage for a significant leap in his career.

Key Stats and Performances

While at Wichita State, Austin Reaves demonstrated his growing potential through several notable statistics and performances. As a freshman, he played a supportive role, learning the college game. His sophomore year marked a significant step forward. During this season, he increased his scoring output to 8.1 points per game while also contributing 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists. One game that stood out was against the College of Charleston, where he scored 16 points, showcasing his ability to impact the game offensively. Another impressive performance came against Oklahoma State, where he displayed his all-around game by scoring 12 points, grabbing 5 rebounds, and dishing out 3 assists. These performances underscored his versatility and his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. Reaves also showed his efficiency, shooting 45% from the field and 35% from three-point range during his sophomore year. His free-throw shooting was also noteworthy, as he converted 78% of his attempts from the charity stripe. These statistics highlight his reliability as a scorer and his ability to make crucial plays when his team needed them most. His consistency and willingness to improve were evident in his year-over-year progress, making him a valuable asset to the Shockers. These early performances at Wichita State were a prelude to the stellar career he would later have at Oklahoma.

Transfer to Oklahoma

Reasons for Transfer

After two seasons at Wichita State, Austin Reaves made the decision to transfer to the University of Oklahoma. Several factors contributed to this pivotal choice. One of the primary reasons was his desire for a fresh start and a different environment where he felt he could further develop his game. Wichita State had experienced some coaching changes and shifts in team dynamics, leading Reaves to seek a program that better aligned with his long-term goals. Another significant factor was the opportunity to play in a more prominent conference. The Big 12 Conference, where Oklahoma competes, is known for its high level of competition and national exposure. Reaves believed that playing in the Big 12 would provide him with a greater platform to showcase his skills and attract the attention of NBA scouts. Furthermore, the coaching staff at Oklahoma, led by Lon Kruger, had a strong track record of developing players and preparing them for the next level. Reaves was impressed by Kruger's vision for his role within the team and the emphasis on player development. He saw Oklahoma as an ideal place to refine his skills, improve his basketball IQ, and enhance his overall game. The transfer to Oklahoma was a strategic move aimed at maximizing his potential and positioning himself for a successful career in professional basketball. This decision reflected his ambition and his commitment to pursuing his dreams at the highest level.

Sitting Out a Year

Due to NCAA transfer rules at the time, Austin Reaves was required to sit out the 2018-2019 season after transferring to Oklahoma. While sitting out can be challenging for many players, Reaves used this time to his advantage, focusing on improving his game and acclimating to his new team. This period was crucial for his development as he worked closely with the coaching staff to refine his skills and understand the Sooners' offensive and defensive systems. He spent countless hours in the gym, honing his shooting technique, improving his ball-handling, and enhancing his overall fitness. The year off also allowed him to build strong relationships with his new teammates. He participated in team practices, scrimmages, and workouts, becoming an integral part of the team's chemistry. This integration was vital, ensuring that he would seamlessly fit into the lineup once he became eligible to play. Additionally, Reaves used this time to study film and analyze his own performance, identifying areas where he could improve. He paid close attention to the nuances of the game, learning to read defenses and make better decisions on the court. This dedication to self-improvement demonstrated his commitment to becoming the best player he could be. While sitting out was undoubtedly a test of patience, Austin Reaves approached it with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. The experience ultimately prepared him for the challenges and opportunities that awaited him in his next two seasons with the Oklahoma Sooners. This year off was pivotal in shaping him into the player he is today.

Thriving at Oklahoma

Impactful Seasons

Upon becoming eligible to play for Oklahoma, Austin Reaves quickly established himself as a key player for the Sooners. In his junior season (2019-2020), he averaged 14.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. His scoring ability and versatility were immediately apparent, as he showcased his skills in various facets of the game. He could score from beyond the arc, drive to the basket, and create opportunities for his teammates. One of the highlights of his junior year was his performance against TCU, where he scored 41 points, demonstrating his ability to take over games offensively. Reaves followed up his impressive junior season with an even better senior year (2020-2021). He increased his scoring output to 18.3 points per game while also contributing 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists. His leadership on and off the court was invaluable to the team, as he helped guide the Sooners to a successful season. During his senior year, he had several standout performances, including a 32-point game against Kansas State and a 28-point game against West Virginia. These performances solidified his reputation as one of the top players in the Big 12 Conference. His impact extended beyond just scoring. He was also a reliable defender and a smart playmaker, making him an all-around asset to the team. His contributions were crucial in helping the Sooners reach the NCAA Tournament in both of his seasons at Oklahoma. Reaves's time at Oklahoma was marked by consistent improvement and impactful performances, solidifying his status as a standout player and preparing him for the next level.

Key Statistics and Accolades

Austin Reaves's tenure at Oklahoma was highlighted by impressive statistics and well-deserved accolades. Over two seasons, he demonstrated consistent growth and exceptional performance. In his junior year, he averaged 14.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. His senior year saw a significant increase in his scoring, as he averaged 18.3 points per game, along with 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists. Reaves's shooting percentages were also noteworthy. He shot 44.9% from the field and 30.5% from three-point range during his junior year. In his senior year, he improved his three-point shooting to 33.3%. His free-throw shooting was consistently strong, as he shot 81.3% and 86.5% in his junior and senior years, respectively. Beyond statistics, Reaves earned several accolades for his performance. He was named to the All-Big 12 Second Team in both his junior and senior seasons. He was also a finalist for the Bob Cousy Award, which recognizes the top point guard in college basketball. His contributions to the team were also recognized with numerous weekly awards and mentions in national media outlets. Reaves's statistics and accolades reflect his exceptional talent and his dedication to the game. He consistently performed at a high level, making significant contributions to the Oklahoma Sooners and solidifying his status as one of the top players in the Big 12 Conference. These achievements laid the groundwork for his transition to the NBA and his continued success as a professional basketball player. His hard work and talent earned him the recognition he deserved.

Transition to the NBA

Undrafted to Lakers

Despite his impressive college career, Austin Reaves went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft. This outcome can be attributed to several factors, including concerns about his athleticism and perceived limitations in his defensive game. However, Reaves didn't let this setback deter him. Instead, he viewed it as an opportunity to prove himself and demonstrate his value to NBA teams. Shortly after the draft, Reaves signed with the Los Angeles Lakers as an undrafted free agent. This opportunity was a dream come true for him, as he had always admired the Lakers organization and their storied history. He approached his time with the Lakers with a relentless work ethic and a determination to make the most of his chance. During training camp and the preseason, Reaves impressed the coaching staff with his basketball IQ, his shooting ability, and his willingness to do whatever it took to help the team. He quickly earned the respect of his teammates, who recognized his talent and his dedication to the game. His ability to make smart plays, knock down shots, and contribute on both ends of the court made him a valuable asset to the Lakers. Ultimately, Reaves's hard work and perseverance paid off, as he earned a spot on the Lakers' regular-season roster. This achievement was a testament to his unwavering belief in himself and his commitment to pursuing his dreams. Going from undrafted to a member of the Los Angeles Lakers was a significant milestone in his career and a testament to his resilience and determination.

Impact on the Lakers

Austin Reaves's impact on the Los Angeles Lakers has been nothing short of remarkable. Since joining the team as an undrafted free agent, he has quickly become a valuable contributor and a fan favorite. His ability to play multiple positions, make smart decisions, and knock down crucial shots has made him an integral part of the Lakers' rotation. One of the key aspects of Reaves's impact is his versatility. He can play as a point guard, shooting guard, or small forward, giving the Lakers flexibility in their lineups. His basketball IQ and court awareness allow him to make the right plays at the right time, whether it's finding an open teammate, driving to the basket, or hitting a clutch three-pointer. Reaves is also a reliable defender, using his intelligence and tenacity to disrupt opponents and make steals. His willingness to do the dirty work and his commitment to team success have endeared him to his teammates and coaches. His impact extends beyond the court as well. Reaves has become a popular figure among Lakers fans, who appreciate his hard work, his humility, and his genuine love for the game. His underdog story and his rise from undrafted free agent to key contributor have resonated with fans, who see him as a symbol of perseverance and determination. As he continues to develop and improve, Austin Reaves is poised to make an even greater impact on the Los Angeles Lakers and establish himself as a long-term fixture in the NBA. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a belief in oneself. He has proven that anything is possible with the right mindset and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

In conclusion, Austin Reaves' college years were a critical period in his development as a basketball player. From his early days at Wichita State to his impactful seasons at Oklahoma, he consistently demonstrated his talent, work ethic, and determination. These experiences laid the foundation for his successful transition to the NBA and his emergence as a valuable contributor to the Los Angeles Lakers. His journey is an inspiration to aspiring basketball players everywhere, proving that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.