Austin Reaves: From Oklahoma To NBA Star

Hey guys! Ever heard of Austin Reaves? If you're a basketball fan, especially if you follow the NBA, you definitely should have! This dude has an incredible story, going from a small town in Arkansas to becoming a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers. But what about his time before the bright lights of the NBA, specifically his days in Oklahoma? Let's dive in and check out how his journey through Oklahoma shaped him into the baller we know and love today. We will explore his college career and how it molded him into the NBA player he is today.

Early Life and High School

Before we get into his Oklahoma chapter, let's rewind a bit. Austin Reaves grew up in Newark, Arkansas, a small town where everyone knows everyone. Basketball was a big part of his life from a young age. Both his parents played college basketball, so you could say it's in his blood. He attended Cedar Ridge High School, where he absolutely dominated.

Reaves didn't just play basketball in high school, he owned it. As a senior, he averaged a mind-blowing 32.5 points per game, along with 8.8 rebounds and 5.5 assists. Those numbers aren't just good; they're legendary! He led his team to a state championship and earned All-State honors multiple times. It was clear he was destined for bigger things. But even with all that success, the path to a major college program wasn't straightforward. He wasn't heavily recruited by the big names right away, which is wild considering how good he was. Still, his talent was undeniable, and he eventually found his way to Wichita State University. Then the Oklahoma Sooners.

Wichita State Beginnings

So, Reaves initially committed to Wichita State. During his freshman year (2016–17 season), he played a decent role off the bench for the Shockers, averaging 4.1 points and 1.7 rebounds in about 12 minutes per game. It was a solid start, showing he could compete at the Division I level. The Shockers had a great season, finishing with a 31-5 record and making it to the NCAA Tournament. Although Reaves didn't have a huge role, being part of such a successful team was a valuable experience.

In his sophomore year, his playing time and production increased. He averaged 8.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. He showed flashes of his scoring ability and playmaking potential. However, he wasn't completely satisfied with his role and felt he could contribute more. This led to a significant decision that would change the course of his career: transferring to the University of Oklahoma. This is when Austin Reaves heads to Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma Chapter

After two seasons at Wichita State, Austin decided to transfer to the University of Oklahoma. Due to NCAA transfer rules at the time, he had to sit out the 2018-2019 season. This wasn't wasted time, though. It allowed him to practice with the team, get stronger, and learn the system. It was like a redshirt year where he could focus solely on improving his game and getting ready to make an impact. This time was crucial for his development and integration into the Sooners' program.

Making an Impact with the Sooners

When Austin Reaves finally hit the court for the Oklahoma Sooners, he was ready to make a statement. In his junior year (2019-2020 season), he quickly became a key player. He averaged 14.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. His scoring ability, combined with his playmaking skills, made him a valuable asset to the team. He had several standout performances, proving he could score in various ways and create opportunities for his teammates. His impact was immediate, and he became a fan favorite in Norman.

But it was his senior year (2020-2021 season) where he truly shined. Reaves took his game to another level, averaging 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. He was the go-to guy for the Sooners, consistently making big plays in crucial moments. His scoring was up, his rebounding was solid, and his assist numbers showed his growth as a playmaker. He also improved his shooting efficiency, becoming a more reliable scorer from all over the court.

Memorable Performances

Throughout his time at Oklahoma, Austin Reaves had some unforgettable performances. One game that stands out was against TCU in February 2021, where he scored 32 points, including some clutch free throws down the stretch, to lead the Sooners to a victory. Games like these showed his ability to perform under pressure and take over when his team needed him most. His consistency and leadership were vital to the Sooners' success. He wasn't just a scorer; he was a leader on and off the court, guiding the team with his experience and poise.

NCAA Tournament Appearances

During his two seasons playing for Oklahoma, Reaves helped lead the Sooners to two NCAA Tournament appearances. While they didn't make a deep run in either tournament, just getting there was a testament to his impact on the program. The NCAA Tournament is the biggest stage in college basketball, and Reaves got to showcase his skills on that platform. These experiences were invaluable in preparing him for the next level.

NBA Dreams and the Los Angeles Lakers

After his impressive college career, Austin Reaves set his sights on the NBA. He wasn't a highly touted prospect, and he went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft. But that didn't discourage him. He signed with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2021 NBA Summer League. He played well enough to earn a two-way contract with the team. This meant he'd spend time with both the Lakers and their G League affiliate. He was determined to prove he belonged in the NBA.

Making the Lakers Roster

Austin Reaves worked hard and impressed the Lakers coaching staff with his skills, work ethic, and basketball IQ. Eventually, he earned a standard NBA contract with the team. He cracked the Lakers' rotation and quickly became a valuable role player. His ability to score, pass, and defend made him a versatile asset. He showed he wasn't afraid of the big moment, hitting clutch shots and making smart plays.

Key Contributions to the Lakers

Reaves has become an integral part of the Lakers. His ability to create his own shot, knock down threes, and make smart passes has made him a reliable offensive weapon. He's also a solid defender, always willing to put in the effort on that end of the floor. His teammates and coaches praise his basketball IQ and his understanding of the game. He just knows how to play the right way, making the right decisions at the right time.

Fan Favorite

Austin Reaves has become a fan favorite in Los Angeles. His underdog story, combined with his hard work and dedication, has resonated with Lakers fans. They appreciate his hustle, his willingness to do whatever it takes to win, and his humble demeanor. He's the kind of player that fans love to root for. Plus, he's got a catchy nickname: "Hillbilly Kobe," which, while a bit tongue-in-cheek, shows how much fans appreciate his game.

Impact and Legacy

Austin Reaves' journey from a small town in Arkansas to the NBA is a testament to his hard work, determination, and belief in himself. His time at Oklahoma was crucial in his development, allowing him to hone his skills and prepare for the next level. He's now making a significant impact in the NBA, proving that you don't have to be a top recruit to achieve your dreams.

Lessons Learned

Austin's journey teaches us several valuable lessons. First, hard work pays off. He wasn't heavily recruited out of high school, but he kept working and improving. Second, perseverance is key. He faced challenges along the way, but he never gave up on his dream. Third, it's important to believe in yourself. Even when others doubted him, he knew he had what it takes to succeed.

Role Model

Austin Reaves is now a role model for young players everywhere. He shows that with hard work, dedication, and a belief in yourself, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. He's an inspiration to kids in small towns who dream of making it big. He proves that it's not always about where you start, but about how hard you're willing to work to get where you want to be.

Future Prospects

What does the future hold for Austin Reaves? If he continues to work hard and improve, the sky's the limit. He has the potential to become an even better player, a bigger star. He's already proven he can compete at the highest level, and he's only going to get better with more experience. Keep an eye on Austin Reaves; he's got a bright future ahead of him!

So, there you have it – the story of Austin Reaves, from his early days in Arkansas to his rise as an NBA player. His time in Oklahoma was a key chapter in his journey, shaping him into the player he is today. It's a story of hard work, perseverance, and believing in yourself. And it's a reminder that with the right attitude and work ethic, anything is possible. Keep balling, Austin!