Remember last year’s Virginia vs. Duke game? In case you have forgotten, it ended in a wild controversy as guard Reece Beekman’s last second foul on Kyle Filipowski was waived upon review, sending the game to overtime. As a result, the number 8 Cavaliers upset the mighty Duke, all thanks to Beekman’s clutch block. But Beekman’s college days are behind him and he is all set to begin his journey as a pro.

And he could be burdened with a massive responsibility to start his career as a potential backup to Stephen Curry. While Reece Beekman is a well-known name in the ACC circuit, surely many of you might be wondering who he is and how he could boost the Warriors’ title aspirations. Well, here’s the answer.

Reece Beekman: From a Milwaukee kid to the ACC Defensive Player of the Year

While the Bucks made their first Conference Finals appearance to start the new century the right way, a future star took his first breath in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 8, 2001. Born to parents Julie Jackson and Demetri Beekman, Reece was the younger of two siblings. Although he called Milwaukee home, he moved to Baton Rouge when he entered his teenage years. Pursuing his passion for basketball, he joined Scotlandville High School, where he dominated for four years and even bagged the Louisiana Gatorade Player of the Year honors in his senior year. Moreover, he led his team to four consecutive state championships. Sure enough, he received offers from multiple colleges. But he was also struck by a tragedy at the same time!

As he was rising to stardom with his performance in High School, his older brother Bryce tragically passed away on March 23, 2020. Just like Reece, his brother was also an elite athlete and played football at Washington State. Amid his brother’s unfortunate passing, Reece decided to join the Virginia Cavaliers where he would spend the next four years. Well, it took him some time to adjust to college basketball, but he surely showed glimpses of greatness here and there during his freshman year. Sure enough, he took a massive leap the following season and became a permanent starter on the team. During his senior year, he averaged his best numbers with 14.3 points and over six assists. But what made him a college star was his defense as he became back-to-back ACC Defensive Player of the Year. Naturally, the next step was to enter the NBA draft!

From going undrafted to potential Stephen Curry backup

With his impressive college resume, many expected Reece to at least be a second-round pick in this year’s draft. Being a defensive menace who averaged 1.8 steals in college, he would be the perfect young talent for many teams. Analysts predicted. Surprisingly though, his name was not announced on either night, leaving his lifelong dream shattered. Just when all hopes were lost, the Warriors swooped in and offered him a two-way contract. And Reece made full use of this opportunity as he played two games during the California Classic Summer League and put up seven points per game.

Not only that, his defense was on display once again as he averaged one block and 0.5 steals in his two appearances. Well, because no team drafted him, the Warriors likely got a steal in Beekman with the two-way deal. And they could develop the guard’s talent and eventually move him up to the main roster where he could play a backup role for Steph. Surely, Joe Lacob is looking for any move that can help his team become title contenders again. And Beekman’s availability could be a perfect way to secure their future even after the Baby-Faced Assassin retires.

How can Reece Beekman help the Warriors succeed?

Obviously, it was shocking to see that scouts thought Reece was not good enough to get drafted this year. More so because he has been playing winning basketball since he was a kid. First, he won multiple state titles in High School and bagged countless individual accolades. Then, he had a similar impact in college where he made the All-ACC Defensive Team multiple times and was arguably the best defender at his position. Maybe, his 6’3 frame was what raised some doubts in scouts’ minds. But what he lacks in height, he surely makes up for with his defense and heart.

And that’s amazing news for the Warriors as they are seeking a defensive playmaker. Maybe, he could even become a Jrue Holiday-type presence for them in the future. Not only is Reece an elite playmaker, but he can also put the ball in the basket whenever needed. Sure, he only shot 31.9% from deep range in college. But that skill will get better once he starts playing under the leadership of the greatest shooter in the world. With Lacob going all-in on young talents like Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski, Beekman could become a part of that next generation which will carry the Warriors’ legacy after Steph and Draymond are gone. What are your thoughts?