Austin Reaves Inspires Teammates as Lakers’ Jake LaRavia Shines in Breakout Performance
The journey of Austin Reaves serves as a testament to the resilience and determination that define professional sports. Once a high school basketball sensation in Arkansas, Reaves transitioned through college hoops at Wichita State and Oklahoma before taking a leap of faith by signing with the Los Angeles Lakers as an undrafted free agent. Despite being drafted 42nd overall by the Detroit Pistons, Reaves chose the two-way deal with L.A., a decision that has unequivocally paid off.
Reaves’ Remarkable Growth
In his inaugural NBA season, Reaves quickly demonstrated his capability to compete at the highest level. As his role expanded on the Lakers, so too did his offensive efficiency. Fast forward to this season, and Reaves is on a trajectory to have a career year, having averaged an impressive 20.2 points per game last season. He appears primed for even greater heights, continuing to inspire those around him in the process.
LaRavia’s Path to the Lakers
Among those influenced by Reaves is Lakers forward Jake LaRavia. Drafted 19th overall in 2022, LaRavia spent the early years of his career with the Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings before joining the Lakers this offseason. With a keen eye on personal development, LaRavia expressed admiration for Reaves’ evolution over the past few seasons. “One of the reasons I chose the Lakers organization was just you see the player development and how Austin was one of the guys that’s just gotten better every year in every category,” he noted.
Promising Signs of Development
In his brief stint with the Lakers, LaRavia has already exhibited promising growth. Through 11 games, the 24-year-old Pasadena native has averaged 11.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. His standout performance came during a late October matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he notched 27 points, closely trailing Reaves’ 28 in a narrow 116-115 victory.
“That was very early in his Laker career, but clearly his best game as a Laker,” remarked J.J. Redick following the game. “For Jake, this game now serves as a reference point. Not only for the offense, but he’s also been phenomenal defensively in two of the last three games. His activity level, deflections, and continued confidence in his shot were big.”
As the season progresses, both Reaves and LaRavia are set to play pivotal roles in the Lakers’ pursuit of success, each embodying the spirit of growth and determination that defines the franchise. Their journeys highlight the power of perseverance and the impact of effective player development within a storied organization.
