Austin Reaves: The Lakers’ Rising Star You Need to Know About

In the glitz and glamour of the Los Angeles Lakers’ iconic franchise, where superstars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis steal the spotlight, a new name is quietly but steadily making its way into the hearts of fans and analysts: Austin Reaves. From an undrafted rookie to a key contributor for one of the NBA’s most prestigious teams, Reaves’ journey is a testament to grit, skill, and a relentless desire to prove doubters wrong. This blog post dives into the meteoric rise of Austin Reaves, covering his background, his breakout performances, and why he has become the Lakers’ rising star you must know about.

The Unlikely Beginnings of Austin Reaves:

Born on May 29, 1998, in Newark, Arkansas, Austin Reeves didn’t grow up in a typical basketball neighborhood. Coming from a small town with a population of just over 1,000, Reeves’ journey to the NBA wasn’t exactly traditional. He wasn’t a highly touted high school prospect, nor did he dominate the recruiting rankings. Instead, Reeves relied on his work ethic and basketball IQ to stand out.

After a solid high school career, he played college basketball at Ruchit State for two years before transferring to the University of Oklahoma. At Oklahoma, Reeves showcased his versatility, averaging 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game in his senior year, earning All-Big 12 honors.

Despite his success in college, Reeves was not taken in the 2021 NBA Draft. For many players, this would be the end of their NBA dreams, but for Reeves, it was just the beginning. The Lakers, known for taking a risk on under-the-radar talent, signed him to a two-way contract. What followed was a story of perseverance that has made Reeves a fan favorite and a vital piece of the Lakers’ puzzle.

Breaking Through with the Lakers of Austin Reaves:

Reeves’ rookie season in 2021-22 was a proving ground. Although he didn’t immediately make it onto the stats list, his composure, decision-making and stellar play earned him some minutes in the Lakers rotation.

Playing alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Reeves showed he could hold his spot, averaging 7.3 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 23.2 minutes per game. His ability to knock down three-pointers (31.7% from beyond the arc) and handle the ball under pressure made him a reliable role player.

However, the 2022-23 season was where Reeves really came into his own. Stepping into a bigger role, he averaged 13.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 3.4 assists, shooting an impressive 39.8% from three-point range. His breakout moment came in the 2023 NBA Playoffs, where he averaged 16.9 points per game and put up stellar performances, including a 23-point effort in Game 1 against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Reeves’ ability to create his own shot, facilitate plays and defend multiple positions made him indispensable. Lakers fans affectionately called him “AR 15” and “Hillbilly Kobe”, reflecting his Arkansas roots and clutch scoring ability.

Why Reaves Stands Out of Austin Reaves :

What makes Austin Reaves so special? For one thing, his basketball IQ is off the charts. Despite not being the most athletic or physically imposing guard, Reaves plays with the intelligence of a veteran. He understands defenses, takes advantage of mismatches and makes smart decisions in high-pressure situations.

His clutch genes were on full display during the 2023 playoffs, where he made game-changing shots and earned the trust of LeBron James — a rare feat for a second-year player.

Reeves’ versatility is another key factor. At 6’5”, he is a combo guard who can play both on and off the ball. He is equally comfortable running the pick-and-roll, spotting up for threes, or guarding quicker opponents. His ability to adapt to different roles has made him a perfect fit for the Lakers’ star-heavy roster, where he often serves as a connector between the team’s superstars and its supporting cast.

Off the court, Reeves’ easygoingness has made him popular with fans. Unlike many NBA stars, he doesn’t come from a glamorous background. His small-town roots, humble demeanor and tireless work ethic appeal to fans, who see him as an ordinary guy who succeeded in the league of legends. His nickname, “Hillbilly Kobe,” reflects this perfectly – a mix of small-town charm and swagger on the big stage.

The Future of Austin Reaves

As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, Reeves is no longer just a feel-good story; he is the cornerstone of the Lakers’ future. By signing him to a four-year, $53.8 million contract in 2023, the Lakers have selected Reeves as an affordable star who fits their championship aspirations.

At 26, he is reaching his peak, and his developmental trajectory suggests he could become an All Star caliber player. Analysts praise his ability to get better year after year, particularly in playmaking and defensive tenacity.

Reeves’ impact extends beyond the list of stats. He’s a culture-builder for the Lakers, exemplifying the hard work and heart that define championship teams. Whether he’s diving for loose balls, hitting clutch threes, or setting LeBron up for an alley-oop, Reeves brings an infectious energy that lifts his teammates.

Why You Need to Know Austin Reaves

Austin Reaves represents the modern NBA underdog—a player who defies expectations with skill, intelligence, and heart. His journey from a small-town kid to a vital cog in the Lakers’ machine is inspiring, but it’s his impact on the court that makes him worth watching.

As the Lakers aim to regain their place in the NBA, Reaves will be at the forefront, proving that sometimes the brightest stars come from the most unexpected places. Keep an eye on Austin Reaves—he’s not just a rising star; he’s a name you’ll be hearing for years to come.