Austin Reaves: Journey & Stats In 2020 - A Deep Dive

Let's dive deep into the Austin Reaves journey, particularly focusing on his budding career and performance in 2020. For basketball enthusiasts and those just discovering the name, understanding Reaves’ trajectory provides insights into his potential and impact on the sport. We'll explore his early career, college performance, and how he geared up for his professional debut. So, buckle up as we explore the making of a promising NBA player!

Early Career and Background

Before becoming a recognizable name in the NBA, Austin Reaves honed his skills through years of dedication and hard work. Born on May 29, 1998, in Newark, Arkansas, Reaves developed a passion for basketball early in life. Growing up in a basketball-loving family, with both his parents having played college basketball, the sport was ingrained in his upbringing. This environment fostered his love for the game and provided him with the initial guidance needed to excel.

Reaves attended Cedar Ridge High School in Newark, where he quickly became a standout player. During his high school career, he showcased exceptional scoring ability, court vision, and leadership skills. He led his team to multiple state championships, earning numerous individual accolades along the way. His stellar performance in high school laid the foundation for his college career and future aspirations in professional basketball. Reaves's journey from a small town in Arkansas to the grand stage of the NBA is a testament to his perseverance and talent.

College Career: Wichita State and Oklahoma

Austin Reaves's college career is marked by his time at Wichita State and later at the University of Oklahoma. His journey through college basketball showcased his growth and adaptability as a player. Initially, Reaves committed to Wichita State, where he played for two seasons under coach Gregg Marshall. During his freshman year, he averaged 4.1 points per game, providing glimpses of his potential. In his sophomore season, his role expanded, and he averaged 8.1 points per game, demonstrating improved confidence and skill.

After his sophomore year, Reaves made a significant decision to transfer to the University of Oklahoma. This move allowed him to be closer to home and provided a fresh start in a new basketball environment. Due to NCAA transfer rules, he had to sit out the 2018-2019 season. However, this period allowed him to focus on refining his skills and understanding the Sooners' basketball program. Upon becoming eligible, Reaves quickly became a key player for Oklahoma. In his junior year (2019-2020), he averaged 14.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and impact on both ends of the court.

In his senior year (2020-2021), Reaves elevated his game even further, averaging 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. His outstanding performance earned him All-Big 12 Second Team honors. His time in college demonstrated not only his scoring ability but also his playmaking and rebounding skills, making him a well-rounded prospect for the NBA.

2020 Performance and Statistics

In 2020, playing for the Oklahoma Sooners, Austin Reaves demonstrated significant growth and impact on the court. His performance during this year was pivotal in showcasing his potential as a versatile and dynamic player. As a junior, Reaves averaged 14.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. These statistics highlight his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. His scoring average made him one of the primary offensive threats for the Sooners, while his rebounding and assist numbers indicated his willingness to do the little things to help his team win.

Key Stats and Highlights from 2020

During the 2019-2020 season, Austin Reaves consistently displayed his scoring ability. He had several games where he scored over 20 points, demonstrating his capacity to take over games offensively. His scoring versatility, with the ability to drive to the basket, shoot from mid-range, and hit three-pointers, made him a difficult matchup for opposing defenders. Beyond scoring, Reaves also showcased his playmaking skills, often initiating the offense and making smart passes to his teammates. His assist numbers reflected his court vision and ability to make good decisions with the ball in his hands.

Defensively, Reaves was a solid contributor, using his size and athleticism to disrupt opponents. He averaged around one steal per game, showing his knack for anticipating passes and creating turnovers. His rebounding numbers were also noteworthy for a guard, indicating his willingness to battle for position and help his team control the boards. Overall, Reaves’s performance in 2020 was a testament to his all-around game and his potential to excel at the next level.

Impact on the Team

Austin Reaves wasn't just about individual stats; he had a tangible impact on the Oklahoma Sooners. As a key player, he often took on leadership roles, guiding the team both on and off the court. His presence provided a sense of stability and confidence to his teammates. In crucial moments of games, Reaves was often the player the Sooners looked to for a big shot or a key play. His ability to perform under pressure made him an invaluable asset to the team.

His versatility allowed the coaching staff to utilize him in various positions and roles, depending on the game situation. Whether it was bringing the ball up the court, creating shots for himself and others, or defending multiple positions, Reaves consistently made positive contributions. His impact extended beyond the box score, as his work ethic and positive attitude influenced the team's culture. Reaves helped elevate the Sooners to a competitive level in the Big 12 Conference, earning them respect and recognition.

Road to the NBA

Austin Reaves's journey to the NBA was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and continuous improvement. After a successful college career at the University of Oklahoma, Reaves declared for the 2021 NBA Draft. While he wasn't projected to be a high pick, his skills and potential garnered attention from several NBA teams. His ability to score, create plays, and contribute on both ends of the court made him an intriguing prospect for teams looking for versatile players.

Pre-Draft Workouts and Evaluations

Before the draft, Austin Reaves participated in numerous pre-draft workouts and evaluations, providing him the opportunity to showcase his skills to NBA scouts and coaches. These workouts were crucial in demonstrating his readiness for the professional level. During these sessions, Reaves focused on highlighting his shooting accuracy, ball-handling skills, and defensive capabilities. He also worked on showcasing his basketball IQ and understanding of team concepts.

NBA teams were impressed by his work ethic, coachability, and willingness to learn. His versatility was also a major selling point, as teams saw him as a player who could potentially fill multiple roles on a roster. While he didn't possess elite athleticism, his fundamental skills and basketball instincts made him a valuable asset. His performance in pre-draft workouts helped solidify his chances of being drafted or, at the very least, earning a spot on an NBA team through undrafted free agency.

Undrafted and Signing with the Lakers

Despite a strong college career and positive pre-draft workouts, Austin Reaves went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft. However, this setback didn't deter him from pursuing his NBA dream. Immediately after the draft, Reaves and his representatives began fielding offers from multiple teams. Ultimately, he agreed to a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. This opportunity provided him with a chance to prove himself in the NBA while also gaining valuable experience with the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.

Signing with the Lakers was a significant moment for Reaves, as it allowed him to join one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. He quickly embraced the opportunity, demonstrating his determination and work ethic from day one. His initial goal was to make the most of his two-way contract and earn a full-time roster spot with the Lakers.

NBA Career with the Los Angeles Lakers

Austin Reaves's NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers began with a two-way contract, but his performance quickly earned him a standard NBA contract. Reaves made his NBA debut in the 2021-2022 season, showcasing his versatility and basketball IQ. His ability to fit into various lineups and contribute in multiple ways made him a valuable asset for the Lakers.

Initial Impact and Performance

From the start, Austin Reaves impressed coaches and teammates with his poise and maturity. He displayed a strong understanding of the game, making smart decisions with the ball and playing solid defense. His shooting accuracy and ability to create his own shot quickly became apparent, earning him more playing time as the season progressed. Reaves’s impact extended beyond the box score, as he brought energy and a positive attitude to the team.

He demonstrated a willingness to do the little things, such as setting screens, making extra passes, and diving for loose balls. These qualities endeared him to the Lakers’ coaching staff and fanbase. In his rookie season, Reaves averaged 7.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. He shot an impressive 44.6% from the field and 31.7% from three-point range, showcasing his scoring efficiency. His contributions helped solidify his role as a reliable and versatile player for the Lakers.

Growth and Development

As Austin Reaves gained more experience in the NBA, he continued to develop his game. He worked tirelessly on improving his skills, focusing on his ball-handling, shooting range, and defensive techniques. His dedication and hard work paid off, as he showed significant improvement in his second season with the Lakers. Reaves became an even more integral part of the team's rotation, playing alongside stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

His ability to play both on and off the ball made him a valuable asset in various offensive schemes. He also improved his defensive awareness, becoming a more disruptive and effective defender. In his second season, Reaves increased his scoring average and improved his shooting percentages. He also showcased his playmaking ability, making smart passes and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. Reaves’s growth and development have solidified his status as a key player for the Lakers and a promising talent in the NBA.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Austin Reaves has a bright future in the NBA. His versatility, basketball IQ, and work ethic make him a valuable asset for any team. As he continues to develop his game, he has the potential to become an even more impactful player. Reaves has shown the ability to adapt and improve, demonstrating his commitment to reaching his full potential. His contributions to the Los Angeles Lakers have been significant, and he is poised to play a key role in the team's success in the years to come.

His journey from an undrafted free agent to a key contributor on a championship-contending team is a testament to his perseverance and talent. With continued hard work and dedication, Austin Reaves is set to make a lasting impact on the NBA and inspire aspiring basketball players around the world. Guys, keep an eye on him; he's going places!

Conclusion

Austin Reaves's journey in basketball is a compelling narrative of perseverance, hard work, and continuous improvement. From his early days in Newark, Arkansas, to his college career at Wichita State and Oklahoma, and now as a valuable player for the Los Angeles Lakers, Reaves has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the game. His performance in 2020 was a pivotal moment, showcasing his versatility and potential. Despite going undrafted, he seized the opportunity with the Lakers, quickly proving his worth and earning a prominent role on the team.

As Reaves continues to develop and refine his skills, he has the potential to achieve even greater heights in the NBA. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring basketball players, demonstrating that with dedication and hard work, dreams can be realized. Keep watching Austin Reaves; his journey is far from over, and he is sure to leave a lasting impact on the sport.