When Austin Reaves launched a buzzer-beating floater over the outstretched hands of Minnesota’s defense on October 30, 2025, it wasn’t just a game-winner — it was a statement. The shot capped a 28-point, 16-assist performance that pushed the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers past the Timberwolves 116-115 in Minneapolis, reinforcing what Lakers coach J.J. Redick had been saying all season: Reaves had evolved into the team’s indispensable leader.
This moment encapsulates the remarkable journey of a player who went undrafted in 2021 to becoming a cornerstone for one of the NBA’s most storied franchises. Born in Newark, Arkansas — not Minnesota as some international reports mistakenly claim — Reaves’ path to NBA prominence runs through the heartland of America, shaped by small-town values and relentless determination.
Reaves attended Cedar Ridge High School in Newark, where he won back-to-back Class 2A state titles in his first two years. As a senior, he averaged 32.5 points, 8.8 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game, leading his team to a Class 3A state title and earning MVP honors after averaging 43.3 points through four tournament games. His high school exploits included a legendary 73-point triple-overtime performance against Forrest City High School that still echoes in Arkansas basketball lore.
After high school, Reaves began his college career at Wichita State in 2016, undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder — an injury he had played through since his junior year of high school. As a freshman, he averaged 4.1 points per game in a reserve role before transferring to Oklahoma for the 2019-20 season.
At Oklahoma, Reaves truly began to flourish. He was named to the Big 12 All-Newcomer Team in 2020 and earned First-Team All-Big 12 honors in 2021 after leading the Sooners in scoring, rebounding and assists. Despite his productive college career, Reaves went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft — a decision that would prove shortsighted as he signed with the Los Angeles Lakers as an undrafted free agent.
His rookie season with the Lakers was a learning experience, but Reaves showed flashes of the player he would turn into. By his second year, he had earned increased playing time and began to establish himself as a reliable rotation player. The 2022-23 season marked his breakthrough, highlighted by winning the inaugural NBA Cup with Los Angeles and earning recognition for his improved all-around game.
The 2023-24 season saw Reaves grab another step forward, but it was the 2024-25 campaign that truly defined his emergence. With LeBron James and Luka Doncic occasionally sidelined due to injury or load management, Reaves was thrust into a larger role — and he thrived. His ability to create shots for himself and others, combined with his improved decision-making and leadership, made him the natural choice to guide the Lakers when their stars rested.
Coach J.J. Redick has been vocal about Reaves’ development, stating after the Wolves game: “I think we all knew that was ballgame… The big thing is he’s established himself as the leader. That’s big time. That’s what we need from him.” Redick added earlier in the season: “Last year he established himself as a bad dude. This is who he is.”
Teammates have noticed the transformation. Dalton Knecht, who played alongside Reaves in the Wolves victory, said after the buzzer-beater: “I think we all knew that was ballgame.” Luka Doncic and LeBron James, who missed that particular road trip to focus on injury recovery, immediately posted their praise on social media following Reaves’ heroics.
Reaves himself remains characteristically humble about his achievements. After hitting the game-winner against Minnesota, he admitted he “probably blacked out a little bit” and didn’t actually observe the shot go through the net. His reaction — spinning toward the visiting bench and jumping into a mob of giddy teammates — revealed the genuine joy he derives from contributing to team success.
The Arkansas native’s journey represents more than just personal achievement; it reflects the Lakers’ commitment to developing undrafted talent and finding value outside the traditional draft pipeline. Reaves joins a select group of undrafted players who have made significant impacts with Los Angeles, proving that talent evaluation extends beyond draft night.
Looking ahead, Reaves’ continued growth will be crucial to the Lakers’ aspirations. As James and Doncic navigate the latter stages of their careers, having a reliable second option who can create his own shot and elevate teammates becomes increasingly valuable. Reaves has shown he can handle that responsibility, particularly when called upon in high-leverage moments.
From the farms of Newark, Arkansas to the bright lights of Los Angeles, Austin Reaves’ story embodies the basketball dream — one built on perseverance, continuous improvement, and seizing opportunities when they arise. His October 30th buzzer-beater wasn’t just a single moment of brilliance; it was the latest evidence that the undrafted guard from Arkansas has arrived as a legitimate NBA contributor and leader.
The next checkpoint in Reaves’ journey comes as the Lakers continue their 2025-26 NBA season. Fans can follow his progress through the team’s official channels and NBA.com, where his statistics and highlights are regularly updated.
What aspects of Austin Reaves’ game have impressed you most this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation about the Lakers’ rising star.
