Los Angeles Lakers star guard Austin Reaves turned 26 yesterday, and his long-time girlfriend, Jenna Barber, took to Instagram to celebrate the occasion. Sharing a collage of beautiful pictures capturing the couple’s moments together, Jenna wrote a heartfelt note for the birthday boy.

Jenna’s caption read, “Birthday boy!!! my favorite person, I couldn’t love you more.” The couple has been going steady for a decade now. They were both born and raised in Newark, Arkansas and their love story blossomed at their alma mater, Cedar Ridge High School. The couple has kept their relationship private so far but Jenna shares glimpses on her social media accounts from time to time.

After graduating high school, the now 23-year-old Jenna worked at the Newark Pharmacy. She then went on to graduate magna-cum-laude with an associate’s degree in Science from the University of Arkansas Community College, in 2020. She is currently training to become a chiropractor at the Logan College of Chiropractic, Missouri.

Owing to their careers, the couple has been long-distance for the better part of their relationship. Nevertheless, Jenna finds time to show up for Austin and cheer him on from the sidelines. She even traveled to the FIBA Basketball World Cup with him last year, going from Vegas to Spain and then to Abu Dhabi. She shared pictures from their trip to her Facebook page as well, capturing moments from the games and their explorations around the city.

Austin and Jenna’s love story is one of unwavering commitment and love. While Jenna stayed in Arkansas, Austin attended Wichita State and the University of Oklahoma, and their romance endured the test of time and distance. Their friendship only got stronger despite the difficulties that come with being separated by distance.

Jenna Barber has been a pillar of support to Austin Reaves

Jenna is Austin’s #1 fan. She even traveled around with him and the Lakers in 2023 during their regular season. Once again, her Facebook following got to see some fun behind-the-scenes from the couple’s life.

Throughout Austin’s basketball career, she has been a constant source of encouragement. Another post from her account celebrated the Los Angeles Lakers’ 3-1 lead against the Golden State Warriors in the 2023 playoffs. The caption read, “3-1 baby!!!! such a fun chapter in life.” She is often spotted alongside Austin’s mother Nicole Wilkett, who interestingly, used to play college basketball for Arkansas State.

Their decade-long bond is a testament to young love and mutual support. Fans have seen the couple grow from being high school sweethearts to adults who are navigating the challenges of their respective careers. As Austin continues to shine on the basketball court, Jenna’s unwavering support strengthens his journey.