Austin Reaves College Career: From Wichita State To NBA Star

Hey guys! Ever wonder about the college journey of Austin Reaves, the now-famous NBA player? Well, let's dive deep into his basketball career before he became a Los Angeles Lakers sensation. Understanding Austin Reaves' journey through college provides a great look into the development and trajectory of a player who has quickly become a fan favorite. His time in college wasn't just about playing games; it was a foundational period where he honed his skills, matured as a player, and prepared himself for the rigors of the NBA. From his early days at Wichita State to his impactful years at Oklahoma, Reaves' collegiate career is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His story underscores the importance of college basketball in shaping future NBA stars, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs that young athletes face as they strive to reach the highest levels of the sport. Whether you're a die-hard Lakers fan, a college basketball enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good underdog story, Austin Reaves' college journey is sure to captivate and inspire. So, let's jump in and explore how this small-town kid from Arkansas transformed into an NBA player!

Early Days at Wichita State

Austin Reaves initially started his college basketball career with the Wichita State Shockers. During his time there, he showed glimpses of the player he would eventually become. Reaves joined Wichita State in 2016, bringing with him a reputation as a versatile and skilled guard from Cedar Ridge High School in Newark, Arkansas. At Wichita State, he played under Coach Gregg Marshall, a respected figure in college basketball known for his disciplined and structured approach to the game. Reaves' freshman year saw him gradually adjusting to the pace and physicality of college basketball. He appeared in 33 games, averaging 21.5 minutes per game, and contributed 4.1 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. While these numbers might seem modest, they represented a crucial learning period for Reaves, as he adapted to the higher level of competition and the demands of a rigorous college basketball program. His sophomore season was marked by significant improvement. In 34 games, he averaged 8.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, showcasing his growing confidence and impact on the court. He demonstrated an increased ability to score from various positions and improved his playmaking skills, indicating his potential as a key player for the Shockers. Off the court, Reaves embraced the team culture and developed strong relationships with his teammates and coaches. The structured environment at Wichita State helped him develop discipline and a strong work ethic, qualities that would serve him well throughout his career. However, after two seasons, Reaves decided to transfer from Wichita State, seeking a program where he could have a more prominent role and further develop his skills. This decision marked a significant turning point in his college career, leading him to the University of Oklahoma, where he would ultimately flourish and gain the attention of NBA scouts.

Transfer to Oklahoma

After his time at Wichita State, Austin Reaves made a significant move by transferring to the University of Oklahoma. This decision proved to be a game-changer for his career. After sitting out a year due to transfer rules, Reaves burst onto the scene with the Oklahoma Sooners, quickly establishing himself as a key player. The Sooners, under Coach Lon Kruger, provided Reaves with the platform he needed to showcase his full potential. Kruger's offensive system, which emphasized spacing, ball movement, and player empowerment, was a perfect fit for Reaves' versatile skill set. In his first season with the Sooners (2019-2020), Reaves averaged 11.2 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game. His ability to score, create plays for his teammates, and contribute on the boards made him an invaluable asset to the team. He demonstrated a remarkable court vision and an innate understanding of the game, often making crucial plays in critical moments. Reaves' impact extended beyond the stat sheet. He became a leader on the floor, setting an example with his hard work, determination, and competitive spirit. His teammates admired his unselfishness and his willingness to do whatever it took to help the team win. Off the court, Reaves embraced the Oklahoma community and quickly became a fan favorite. His humble demeanor and genuine personality resonated with supporters, who appreciated his dedication to the program. During his time at Oklahoma, Reaves faced challenges and adversity, but he consistently rose to the occasion, demonstrating his resilience and mental toughness. Whether it was overcoming shooting slumps, battling through injuries, or facing tough defensive assignments, Reaves always found a way to contribute and make a positive impact. His success at Oklahoma not only elevated his own profile but also helped the Sooners compete at a high level in the Big 12 Conference. He showcased his ability to perform under pressure, making clutch shots and smart decisions in crucial games. It was during this period that NBA scouts began to take serious notice of Reaves, recognizing his potential to translate his skills to the professional level. Ultimately, his decision to transfer to Oklahoma proved to be a pivotal moment in his career, setting the stage for his eventual leap to the NBA.

Impactful Seasons with the Sooners

During his seasons with the Oklahoma Sooners, Austin Reaves truly shined. He consistently improved his game, becoming a standout player in the Big 12 Conference. In his junior year (2019-2020), Reaves averaged 11.2 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game, showcasing his versatility and playmaking abilities. These numbers represented a significant step up from his time at Wichita State, demonstrating the impact of his improved role and the offensive system at Oklahoma. Reaves excelled at creating opportunities for his teammates, using his court vision and passing skills to set up easy scores. His assist numbers reflected his unselfishness and his commitment to making the right play. Additionally, he proved to be a reliable scorer, capable of knocking down shots from beyond the arc and finishing strong drives to the basket. However, it was his senior year (2020-2021) that truly cemented his legacy at Oklahoma. Reaves took his game to another level, averaging 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. He became the primary offensive option for the Sooners, leading the team in scoring and demonstrating his ability to carry the load in crucial situations. His scoring average placed him among the top players in the Big 12, earning him All-Conference honors and recognition as one of the league's premier talents. Beyond the numbers, Reaves' impact was felt in his leadership and his ability to inspire his teammates. He set the tone with his relentless work ethic and his unwavering belief in the team's potential. Whether it was diving for loose balls, taking charges, or providing vocal encouragement, Reaves led by example and earned the respect of everyone around him. His senior season was filled with memorable moments, including game-winning shots, dominant performances, and clutch plays in critical situations. He consistently rose to the occasion when his team needed him most, demonstrating his poise and composure under pressure. Overall, Austin Reaves' time with the Oklahoma Sooners was marked by significant growth, impactful contributions, and a lasting legacy. He transformed from a promising prospect into a bonafide star, setting the stage for his eventual transition to the NBA. His success at Oklahoma not only elevated his own profile but also helped the Sooners compete at a high level in the Big 12 Conference, solidifying his place as one of the program's most memorable players.

NBA Dreams and Undrafted Success

Despite a successful college career, Austin Reaves wasn't drafted into the NBA. However, this didn't deter him. Instead, he used it as motivation to prove himself. After going undrafted in the 2021 NBA draft, Reaves signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, marking the beginning of his professional career. Many players might have been discouraged by the lack of draft selection, but Reaves saw it as an opportunity to prove his worth and demonstrate his skills on the biggest stage. From day one, he approached every practice and every game with a chip on his shoulder, determined to make the most of his chance with the Lakers. Reaves' work ethic and his commitment to improvement quickly caught the attention of the Lakers coaching staff. They recognized his potential and his ability to contribute in a variety of ways, from scoring and playmaking to defending and rebounding. As a result, he earned a spot on the Lakers' roster and began to carve out a role for himself within the team. In his rookie season, Reaves exceeded expectations, showcasing his versatility and basketball IQ. He demonstrated his ability to score from different positions, make smart passes, and defend multiple positions. His contributions off the bench provided a spark for the Lakers, and he quickly became a reliable option in crucial moments. Reaves' teammates and coaches praised his unselfishness, his willingness to learn, and his positive attitude. He embraced his role and did whatever was asked of him, whether it was playing extended minutes due to injuries or taking on tough defensive assignments. His impact extended beyond the stat sheet, as he brought energy, enthusiasm, and a winning mentality to the team. As his rookie season progressed, Reaves' confidence grew, and he began to make more significant contributions. He had several standout performances, including games where he scored double-digit points, dished out multiple assists, and made key defensive stops. His play earned him increased playing time and a prominent role in the Lakers' rotation. Ultimately, Austin Reaves' journey from an undrafted free agent to a valuable contributor for the Los Angeles Lakers is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in himself. He proved that success in the NBA is not always determined by draft status, but rather by perseverance, skill development, and a commitment to excellence.

From College to Lakers Star

Austin Reaves' journey from college to becoming a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers is truly inspiring. His time in college laid the groundwork for his NBA success. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and self-belief. From his early days at Wichita State to his impactful seasons at Oklahoma, Reaves honed his skills, developed his basketball IQ, and prepared himself for the challenges of professional basketball. His ability to overcome adversity, adapt to different roles, and consistently improve his game set him apart from many of his peers. Reaves' success in the NBA is not just a result of his physical talent; it's also a reflection of his mental toughness, his willingness to learn, and his unwavering commitment to excellence. He approaches every practice and every game with a relentless work ethic, always striving to get better and contribute to his team's success. His unselfishness and his positive attitude have endeared him to his teammates, coaches, and fans alike. He embraces his role and does whatever is asked of him, whether it's scoring points, making plays, defending opponents, or providing leadership. As he continues to develop and refine his game, there's no telling how far he can go in the NBA. His versatility, his basketball IQ, and his unwavering determination make him a valuable asset to the Lakers and a player to watch for years to come. Ultimately, Austin Reaves' story is an inspiration to aspiring basketball players everywhere. He demonstrates that success is not always guaranteed, but it is attainable through hard work, dedication, and a belief in oneself. His journey from a small-town kid to an NBA star is a reminder that anything is possible with the right mindset and the right approach.

So, there you have it! The college career of Austin Reaves, a journey filled with growth, challenges, and ultimately, success. From Wichita State to Oklahoma, his time in college was crucial in shaping him into the NBA player we know and love today. Keep an eye on this guy; he's got a bright future ahead!