Austin Reaves: His Journey To The NBA In 2020

Let's dive into the story of Austin Reaves, tracing his path to professional basketball. Specifically, we will focus on the year 2020 and understand how that year shaped his journey to the NBA. This is more than just basketball; it's about dedication, hard work, and seizing opportunities.

Early Life and Background

Before we get into 2020 specifically, it's helpful to understand Austin's background. Born in Newark, Arkansas, Austin Reaves grew up immersed in basketball. Both of his parents played college basketball, so you could say it’s in his blood! From a young age, he showed a natural talent and a serious passion for the game. He played high school basketball at Cedar Ridge High School, where he absolutely dominated, leaving as one of the school's all-time leading scorers. His stellar performance in high school set the stage for his college career and, eventually, his NBA dreams. He wasn't just good; he was driven. He wasn't just talented; he worked tirelessly to hone his skills. This early foundation of hard work and dedication would prove crucial as he navigated the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Even back then, people noticed his court awareness and his knack for making the right play, traits that continue to define his game today. Thinking back to those early days, it’s clear that Austin was building the foundation for something special, something that would eventually lead him to the bright lights of the NBA. And that journey, especially the pivotal year of 2020, is what we're going to explore in detail. So, buckle up and get ready to delve into the story of how Austin Reaves transformed from a promising college player into an NBA prospect.

College Career Before 2020

Alright, let's rewind a bit and check out Austin's college days before 2020. So, he initially started his college career at Wichita State University. He played there for two seasons, from 2016 to 2018. During his time with the Shockers, he showed flashes of potential, but he wasn't quite the Austin Reaves we know today. He contributed, but he wasn't the primary focus of the offense. He learned a lot during those years, getting used to the speed and physicality of college basketball.

However, things really took a turn when he decided to transfer to the University of Oklahoma. After sitting out a year due to transfer rules (as you gotta do), he finally got to suit up for the Sooners in the 2019-2020 season. And that's where things started to get interesting. Even though we're focusing on 2020 as a whole, this first part of the year with Oklahoma was crucial. He started showing off more of his skills, becoming a key player for the team. He was scoring more, passing better, and just generally making a bigger impact on the game. This period of adjustment and growth at Oklahoma was super important for his development. It allowed him to refine his game, build confidence, and prove to himself (and everyone else) that he had what it takes to compete at a high level. This foundation, built in the years leading up to and including that first part of 2020, set the stage for the breakout season that would ultimately propel him towards the NBA. He was laying the groundwork for his future success, and it was exciting to watch him evolve into the player he was always capable of being.

The Impact of 2020 on Reaves's Development

Okay, now let's really hone in on 2020 – a huge year for Austin. Remember, he was playing for the University of Oklahoma at this point. This year was pivotal for a few key reasons. First off, he was getting significant playing time and becoming a primary offensive option. This meant he had the opportunity to showcase his skills and develop his game in real-time, under pressure. He was learning what it takes to be a leader on the court, how to make crucial decisions in key moments, and how to handle the responsibilities that come with being a go-to player. This experience was invaluable, providing him with the confidence and poise that would serve him well at the next level.

Secondly, 2020 was a year where he really started to refine his skillset. He improved his shooting, his ball-handling, and his overall court awareness. He was becoming a more complete player, capable of contributing in multiple ways. He wasn't just a scorer; he was a playmaker, a defender, and a leader. This versatility made him a more attractive prospect for NBA teams, who are always looking for players who can do a little bit of everything.

Finally, the challenges and uncertainties of 2020 itself – the pandemic, the changes to the college basketball season – undoubtedly had an impact on his mental toughness and resilience. Navigating those challenges, staying focused on his goals, and continuing to work hard despite the circumstances all contributed to his growth as a person and as a player. It taught him the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of adversity – qualities that are essential for success in the demanding world of professional basketball. So, 2020 wasn't just a year on the calendar; it was a crucible that helped forge Austin Reaves into the player he is today.

Key Stats and Performances in 2020

Let's get down to the numbers! In 2020, while playing for the Oklahoma Sooners, Austin Reaves started making some serious noise. He wasn't just filling a spot on the roster; he was becoming a key contributor. His scoring numbers jumped significantly, and he started averaging double figures, which is always a good sign. But it wasn't just about scoring; it was about how he was scoring. He was showing off his ability to create his own shot, drive to the basket, and knock down shots from beyond the arc. He became a threat from all over the court, making him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Beyond the points, Reaves also showed his versatility by racking up assists and rebounds. He wasn't just a scorer; he was a playmaker who could find open teammates and a scrappy rebounder who wasn't afraid to mix it up inside. This all-around game made him a valuable asset to the Sooners and caught the attention of scouts.

While specific game-by-game stats from early 2020 might be a bit buried in the archives, it's the overall trend that's important. He was consistently improving, showing flashes of brilliance, and demonstrating that he had the potential to be a star. It was this upward trajectory, combined with his impressive skillset, that really solidified his status as an NBA prospect. His performance during this year laid the statistical groundwork for his future success, proving that he could compete and excel at a high level. He was not just participating; he was actively shaping the outcome of games, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who watched him play.

NBA Draft Preparation and Decisions

As 2020 progressed, Austin Reaves faced some big decisions about his future. The question was: should he declare for the NBA Draft, or should he stay in college and continue to develop his game? This is a tough decision for any young player, as there are pros and cons to both options. Declaring for the draft early means a quicker path to the NBA, but it also means taking a risk. If you're not drafted high enough, or at all, you could end up in a less-than-ideal situation. Staying in college allows you to improve your skills, gain more experience, and potentially raise your draft stock, but it also means delaying your professional career and risking injury.

Ultimately, Austin decided to stay in college for another year. This was a strategic decision, as he felt he could further improve his game and increase his chances of being drafted higher in the following year. He used the feedback he received from NBA scouts to identify areas where he needed to improve, and he dedicated himself to working on those weaknesses. This decision showed his maturity and his understanding of the long-term process of becoming an NBA player. He wasn't just chasing the immediate gratification of entering the draft; he was thinking about his future and making a calculated decision to maximize his potential. This decision to stay in school and continue to hone his craft proved to be a wise one, as it ultimately led to him being signed by the Los Angeles Lakers and achieving his dream of playing in the NBA.

Undrafted and the Path to the Lakers

So, here's a twist: Austin Reaves actually went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft. Yeah, you heard that right. Despite all the hard work and progress, his name wasn't called on draft night. It can be a crushing blow for any player who dreams of playing in the NBA. However, this is where Austin's resilience and determination really shone through. Instead of giving up, he used the undrafted status as motivation to prove everyone wrong.

He didn't let the disappointment derail him. Instead, he doubled down on his efforts and sought out opportunities to showcase his skills. He ended up joining the Los Angeles Lakers for the Summer League. This was his chance to prove that he belonged in the NBA, to show the Lakers (and other teams) what he was capable of. And boy, did he deliver! He played with a chip on his shoulder, demonstrating his scoring ability, his playmaking skills, and his tenacious defense. He impressed the Lakers coaching staff and management with his work ethic, his basketball IQ, and his willingness to do whatever it takes to win. His performance in the Summer League was so impressive that the Lakers offered him a two-way contract. This meant he would split his time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate, but it was a foot in the door, an opportunity to prove himself at the highest level. And as we all know now, he seized that opportunity and never looked back. The rest, as they say, is history.

Conclusion

Looking back at 2020, it's clear that this year was a crucial turning point in Austin Reaves's journey to the NBA. It was a year of growth, development, and pivotal decisions. He honed his skills, faced challenges head-on, and made strategic choices that ultimately paved the way for his success. From his evolving role at the University of Oklahoma to his preparation for the NBA Draft, every experience contributed to shaping him into the player he is today. And while his path wasn't always straightforward, his determination and resilience ultimately led him to achieve his dream of playing in the NBA.

Austin Reaves's story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and believing in yourself. It's a reminder that setbacks are just opportunities in disguise, and that with the right mindset, anything is possible. So, the next time you see Austin Reaves on the court, remember the journey he took to get there, the challenges he overcame, and the unwavering belief he had in himself. It's a story worth celebrating, and it's a story that inspires us all to pursue our own dreams with passion and determination. He's living proof that hard work pays off and that even when things don't go as planned, you can still achieve greatness if you never give up. His story is far from over, and it will be exciting to see what the future holds for this talented and inspiring young player.