Austin Reaves has been living his dream since he signed a four-year, $56 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason. The 24-year-old guard, who went undrafted in 2021, has quickly become one of the most promising young players in the NBA and a key contributor to the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
Key Takeaways
- Austin Reaves is a rising star in the NBA who has overcome many challenges and obstacles to achieve his goals.
- He has signed a lucrative contract with the Lakers, one of the most successful and popular franchises in the league, and has a chance to win a championship with them.
- He has also represented his country at the international level and has earned a shoe deal with a foreign company, which shows his global appeal and influence.
- He attributes his success to his hard work, determination, and passion for the game, as well as the support and guidance of his teammates, coaches, and family.
- He is not content with his current status and wants to keep improving and reaching new heights in his career.
Reaves, who played college basketball at Wichita State and Oklahoma, said that he feels his success is well deserved because he has worked hard his whole life and never taken shortcuts. “I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder and a hunger to prove myself,” he said. “I’ve never been given anything. I’ve always had to earn it. And I feel like I deserve it.”
Reaves also joined Team USA at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and secured a signature shoe deal with the Chinese company Rigorer. He said that he was honored to represent his country and to have his own shoe line. “It’s a blessing to be able to play with the best players in the world and to wear the USA jersey,” he said. “And it’s amazing to have my own shoe. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of. I’m grateful to Rigorer for believing in me and giving me this opportunity.”
Reaves improved his performance last season and averaged 16.9 points, 4.6 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game while shooting 44.3 percent from deep in the postseason run. He said that he credits his teammates, coaches and family for helping him grow as a player and a person. “I’ve learned a lot from playing with LeBron, AD, Russ and the rest of the guys,” he said. “They’ve been great mentors and leaders for me. And I’ve also learned a lot from Coach Vogel and his staff. They’ve given me confidence and trust. And of course, I wouldn’t be here without my family. They’ve always supported me and pushed me to be better.”
Reaves said that he is excited for the upcoming season and that he hopes to help the Lakers win another title. He said that he is not satisfied with what he has achieved so far and that he wants to keep improving and reaching new heights. “I’m not complacent,” he said. “I’m hungry for more. I want to be the best player I can be and help this team win as many championships as possible.”