Austin Reaves: College Stats, Career & Highlights

Let's dive into the basketball journey of Austin Reaves, especially his college career. Reaves, an undrafted player who proved his worth in the NBA, first honed his skills in the collegiate arena. Understanding his college stats, career highlights, and overall impact provides valuable insight into his development as a player. For fans and aspiring athletes, examining Reaves’s path to the NBA can offer motivation and practical lessons. We’ll explore where he played, how he performed, and the key moments that defined his early career.

Early Years and High School Success

Before making waves in college basketball, Austin Reaves made a name for himself at Cedar Ridge High School in Newark, Arkansas. During his time there, he showcased his versatility and scoring ability, setting the stage for his future success. Reaves excelled as a scorer and playmaker, leading his team to multiple victories and earning significant recognition within the state. His high school achievements were not just about individual stats; he demonstrated leadership qualities and a strong work ethic that would serve him well in his college career. Reaves's performance in high school garnered attention from college scouts, leading to his recruitment and eventual commitment to Wichita State University. These early years were crucial in developing the fundamental skills and competitive mindset that define Austin Reaves as a player. His transition from high school standout to college prospect was a testament to his dedication and potential.

College Career: Wichita State

Initially, Austin Reaves committed to Wichita State University, where he began his college basketball journey. During his time with the Shockers, Reaves showed flashes of brilliance but also faced challenges adjusting to the higher level of competition. At Wichita State, Reaves played under coach Gregg Marshall, known for his disciplined and structured approach to the game. In his freshman year, Reaves appeared in 32 games, averaging 4.1 points and 1.7 rebounds per game. While these numbers weren't eye-popping, they provided a foundation for growth and development. One of the standout moments from his freshman season was when he scored 14 points against Nebraska-Omaha, offering a glimpse of his offensive potential. In his sophomore year, Reaves continued to improve, averaging 8.1 points and 3.1 rebounds per game. He demonstrated an increased ability to score from beyond the arc, shooting 42.5% from three-point range. Despite his progress, Reaves decided to transfer after his sophomore season, seeking a better fit for his playing style and career aspirations. This decision marked a significant turning point, leading him to the University of Oklahoma and setting the stage for a more prominent role in his college career.

Transfer to Oklahoma and NCAA Regulations

After two seasons at Wichita State, Austin Reaves decided to transfer to the University of Oklahoma. Under NCAA regulations, transferring athletes typically must sit out a year before becoming eligible to play for their new team. This mandatory sit-out year can be a challenging period for players, requiring them to focus on individual development without the opportunity to compete in games. During his sit-out year, Reaves worked diligently on his game, honing his skills and adjusting to the Sooners' basketball program. He practiced with the team, participated in training sessions, and focused on improving his strength and conditioning. This period of isolation from game action allowed him to analyze his weaknesses and refine his strengths. Reaves also used this time to build relationships with his new teammates and coaching staff, fostering a sense of camaraderie and preparing for his eventual return to the court. The sit-out year was not merely a waiting period; it was an opportunity for Reaves to grow both as a player and as a person, setting the stage for a successful career at Oklahoma. When he finally became eligible, he was determined to make an immediate impact and prove that his decision to transfer was the right one.

College Career: Oklahoma - Junior Season

Upon becoming eligible to play for the Oklahoma Sooners, Austin Reaves quickly established himself as a key player. His junior season marked a significant turning point in his college career, showcasing his versatility and scoring ability. Reaves stepped into a prominent role, demonstrating his ability to handle the ball, create scoring opportunities, and make crucial plays. In his junior year, Reaves averaged 11.2 points, 3.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. He played in all 32 games, starting in 31 of them, and became a reliable option for the Sooners on both ends of the court. One of the highlights of his junior season was when he scored a season-high 22 points against TCU, demonstrating his scoring prowess. He also had several games where he showcased his playmaking abilities, dishing out multiple assists and facilitating the offense. Reaves's impact extended beyond the stat sheet; his leadership and court awareness were invaluable to the team. He became known for his clutch performances and ability to make timely plays. His junior season laid the groundwork for an even more impressive senior year, solidifying his status as a top player in the Big 12 Conference. Reaves's dedication and hard work during his sit-out year paid off, as he seamlessly integrated into the Sooners' lineup and became an integral part of their success.

College Career: Oklahoma - Senior Season

Austin Reaves’s senior season at Oklahoma was nothing short of spectacular, solidifying his status as one of the top players in the Big 12 Conference. He took his game to another level, showcasing his scoring prowess, playmaking abilities, and leadership qualities. In his senior year, Reaves averaged an impressive 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. He started in all 25 games he played, becoming the go-to player for the Sooners in crucial moments. One of the standout performances of his senior season was when he scored a career-high 41 points against TCU, demonstrating his ability to take over games. He also had numerous games where he showcased his all-around abilities, recording multiple double-doubles and consistently contributing in various statistical categories. Reaves's senior season earned him numerous accolades, including All-Big 12 First Team honors. His impact extended beyond the court, as he served as a mentor to younger players and a leader within the team. Reaves's performance elevated the Sooners' competitiveness and helped them secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament. His senior season not only highlighted his individual growth but also demonstrated his ability to elevate the performance of those around him, leaving a lasting legacy at Oklahoma. His transition from a promising player to a standout star was a testament to his unwavering commitment and relentless pursuit of excellence.

College Stats Overview

To fully appreciate Austin Reaves's college career, let’s take a look at a concise overview of his stats across his time at Wichita State and Oklahoma. During his two seasons at Wichita State, Reaves played a supporting role, averaging 6.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. He shot 44.6% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range. While these numbers weren't extraordinary, they laid the foundation for his future growth. After transferring to Oklahoma and sitting out a year, Reaves emerged as a star player. In his junior season, he averaged 11.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, shooting 45.0% from the field and 30.3% from beyond the arc. His senior season was his most productive, as he averaged 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 44.3% and a three-point percentage of 30.5%. Overall, Reaves's college stats demonstrate a clear progression, culminating in an outstanding senior season that showcased his all-around abilities. His ability to score, rebound, and distribute the ball made him a valuable asset to both Wichita State and Oklahoma. These stats not only reflect his individual talent but also highlight his dedication to improvement and his ability to adapt to different roles and systems.

Highlights and Memorable Moments

Throughout his college career, Austin Reaves delivered numerous highlights and memorable moments that solidified his reputation as a standout player. At Wichita State, one of his early highlights was scoring 14 points against Nebraska-Omaha as a freshman, providing a glimpse of his scoring potential. However, his most memorable moments came during his time at Oklahoma. His junior season included a standout performance against TCU, where he scored a season-high 22 points, showcasing his ability to take over games. His senior season was filled with unforgettable moments, none more so than his career-high 41-point performance against TCU. In that game, Reaves demonstrated his scoring versatility, knocking down shots from beyond the arc and driving to the basket with ease. He also had several clutch performances, making game-winning shots and crucial plays in critical situations. Reaves's leadership and court awareness were also on full display during his senior season, as he consistently made smart decisions and elevated the performance of his teammates. These highlights and memorable moments not only showcase Reaves's individual talent but also highlight his ability to perform under pressure and make a positive impact on the game. His college career was filled with moments that fans will remember for years to come, solidifying his legacy as one of the top players to come through Oklahoma.

Impact and Legacy

Austin Reaves's impact on both Wichita State and Oklahoma is undeniable, leaving a lasting legacy at both institutions. While his time at Wichita State was relatively brief, he laid the foundation for his future success and contributed to the team's overall performance. His decision to transfer to Oklahoma proved to be a turning point in his career, as he blossomed into a star player and became a leader on and off the court. Reaves's impact extended beyond the stat sheet, as he served as a role model for younger players and helped elevate the program's competitiveness. His performances earned him numerous accolades, including All-Big 12 First Team honors, and helped the Sooners secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament. Reaves's legacy is not only defined by his individual achievements but also by his contributions to the team's success and his positive influence on his teammates. He demonstrated the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, inspiring others to strive for excellence. His journey from an undrafted player to an NBA standout is a testament to his unwavering commitment and belief in himself. Reaves's impact and legacy will continue to be felt by future generations of players at both Wichita State and Oklahoma, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved through hard work and determination.

From College to the NBA

The transition from college basketball to the NBA is a significant leap, but Austin Reaves has navigated it successfully, proving his ability to compete at the highest level. After going undrafted in the 2021 NBA draft, Reaves signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, earning a spot on the team through his impressive performances in the Summer League and training camp. Reaves's college experience at Wichita State and Oklahoma prepared him for the challenges of the NBA, providing him with the fundamental skills, basketball IQ, and competitive mindset necessary to succeed. His versatility as a scorer, playmaker, and defender has made him a valuable asset to the Lakers. Reaves has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to the NBA game, improving his shooting range, defensive intensity, and overall consistency. His success in the NBA is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and ability to learn and grow. Reaves's journey from an undrafted player to a key contributor on a championship-contending team is an inspiration to aspiring basketball players everywhere. His story demonstrates that with perseverance, talent, and a strong work ethic, anything is possible. Reaves's success in the NBA has also brought recognition to his college programs, highlighting the quality of coaching and player development at Wichita State and Oklahoma.

Lessons for Aspiring Athletes

Austin Reaves’s journey from high school standout to college star and NBA player offers valuable lessons for aspiring athletes. One of the key takeaways from Reaves’s career is the importance of hard work and dedication. He consistently put in the extra effort to improve his skills and refine his game. Another important lesson is the value of perseverance. Reaves faced challenges and setbacks throughout his career, including transferring colleges and going undrafted, but he never gave up on his dreams. His ability to overcome adversity is a testament to his mental toughness and resilience. Aspiring athletes can also learn from Reaves’s commitment to teamwork and leadership. He always put the team first and strived to make those around him better. His leadership qualities were evident both on and off the court, earning him the respect of his teammates and coaches. Reaves’s story also highlights the importance of staying focused on your goals and maintaining a positive attitude, even in the face of obstacles. By following these lessons, aspiring athletes can increase their chances of success and reach their full potential.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Austin Reaves's college career was a crucial chapter in his development as a basketball player. His journey through Wichita State and Oklahoma showcased his growth, versatility, and unwavering commitment to the game. From his early years at Wichita State to his standout performances at Oklahoma, Reaves demonstrated the importance of hard work, perseverance, and teamwork. His transition to the NBA, despite going undrafted, is a testament to his talent and dedication. For aspiring athletes, Reaves's story offers valuable lessons about overcoming adversity, staying focused on your goals, and maintaining a positive attitude. His legacy at both Wichita State and Oklahoma will continue to inspire future generations of players. Austin Reaves's college career not only paved the way for his success in the NBA but also solidified his status as a role model and a testament to what can be achieved through dedication and hard work. So, keep an eye on Austin Reaves, guys, because his star is definitely still on the rise!