FIBA World Cup 2023: Why Is Lakers’ Austin Reaves Steve Kerr’s Star Man for Team USA?

When you think of a basketball powerhouse like Team USA, names like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry often come to mind. However, every team has its hidden heroes, and Austin Reaves has shown himself to be the tenacious game-changer. Reaves, a determined individual from Newark, Arkansas, grew up on a 300-acre farm with a strong work ethic. Through his performances, he has shown that he is crucial to the USA’s team for chances of redemption in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Reaves’ older brother Spencer inspired him to pursue basketball, a different dream than farming, which was common in his hometown. With his journey to the international stage, he demonstrates his resilience and determination. Even his team coach Steve Kerr has shown faith and confidence in his game, giving him a morale boost.

Reaves’ journey to the FIBA World Cup

Austin Reaves pursued his dream of playing in the NBA, despite growing up in a small community. He developed his abilities while attending Wichita State and Oklahoma for his undergraduate education. During his college years, he exhibited potential and perseverance, bringing him to the top basketball league in the world, the NBA.

Reaves faced great odds when he entered the 2021 NBA Draft at the age of 22. Even though the NBA Draft didn’t select him that evening, Reaves’ adventure didn’t end. The Lakers made him a two-way offer so he could play for their G-League affiliate and sign a contract with the team.

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Reaves understood the significance of joining the Lakers, a team he had supported since he was a young boy. Signing with the Lakers was a dream come true for him because of his love of purple and gold. He even acquired the nickname “Hillbilly Kobe” in his college. What’s particularly intriguing about Reaves’ journey to Team USA is his lack of prior experience in the USA basketball pathway.

Head coach Steve Kerr recognized Reaves’ potential after witnessing his stellar playoff run against the Warriors. Coach Kerr even expressed his admiration for Reaves’ coaching and playing experience, despite their playoff rivalry.

And despite being a newcomer, Reaves’ impact on the USA team is undeniable. He brings a never-say-die attitude and a willingness to step up when it matters most. In a hard-fought victory against Germany, Reaves scored 16 crucial points, helping engineer an 18-6 run alongside Tyrese Haliburton. This rally transformed a 16-point deficit into single digits, showcasing Reaves’ ability to inject fire and turn the tide in favor of Team USA.

Austin Reaves’ basketball stats

Austin Reaves, at Cedar Ridge High School, set a career-high in points with 73 points in a 117-115 triple overtime victory. He averaged 32.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. Reaves led Cedar Ridge to their third state championship in four years and was named the Three Rivers Edition Boys Basketball Player of the Year.

Fast forward to 2023, Reaves signed a four-year, $56 million contract deal with the Lakers. Reaves had a great playoff debut, scoring 23 points with 8 field goals, 3 from 3-point range, and 4 free throws. He also had 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block.

With outstanding averages of 16.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, he established himself as the team’s third-highest scorer during the 2023 Western Conference Finals.

As the FIBA World Cup unfolds, Austin Reaves stands as a symbol of never backing down, no matter the odds. While he may not be a superstar name currently, looking at his player graph, he for sure possesses the caliber of one.

What do you think about Austin Reaves’ performance? Let us know in the comments below.

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