Introduction
Jake LaRavia is an emerging American professional basketball player currently starring as a forward for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Known for his versatility, size, and efficient scoring, Jake has quickly become a player to watch as he continues to develop his game in the league.
Early Life & College Career
Born November 3, 2001, in Pasadena, California, LaRavia moved to Indianapolis, Indiana at a young age and played high school basketball at Lawrence Central High School. There, he helped lead his team to its first sectional title since 2012 and posted impressive stats as a senior.
College Journey
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Indiana State University: LaRavia began his college basketball career in 2019 with the Indiana State Sycamores. He earned MVC All-Freshman and All-Newcomer Team honors as a freshman and Second-team All-MVC as a sophomore.
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Wake Forest University: In 2021, he transferred to Wake Forest for his junior season. At Wake Forest, LaRavia showcased his scoring and playmaking skills. Notably, he scored a career-high 31 points, with 10 rebounds and four assists in a dominant win against North Carolina on January 22, 2022.
His final college season saw him average around 14.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, earning All-ACC Second Team honors.
NBA Career & Draft
Jake LaRavia declared for the 2022 NBA Draft, where he was selected 19th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves but was immediately traded to the Memphis Grizzlies on draft night.
He made his NBA debut with Memphis in October 2022 and has since played for several teams, including the Sacramento Kings, before signing a two-year, $12 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in July 2025.
Age, Height & Physical Profile
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Age: 24 years old (born November 3, 2001)
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Height: 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 m)
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Weight: ~235 lbs (106–107 kg)
LaRavia’s size and athleticism make him a modern forward capable of stretching the floor and defending multiple positions.
NBA Career Highs & Highlights
While LaRavia has yet to post a breakout star performance in the NBA, his college career high of 31 points remains a standout moment.
In the NBA, he has shown flashes of scoring and versatility, averaging solid contributions off the bench and showing steady improvement. In the 2025/26 season, he has been averaging around 8.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
Personal Life: Wife & Relationships
Jake LaRavia’s personal life has also been a point of interest for fans. He has been linked with Taja McLean, a mental health professional specializing in children and families. The couple began dating after a chance encounter in 2022 and officially married in late September 2025.
Taja McLean holds advanced degrees and runs her own counseling practice, which highlights the couple’s shared focus on both professional achievement and personal growth.
Net Worth & Contract
As of 2025, Jake LaRavia’s estimated net worth is generally reported to be between $3 million and $5 million, considering his NBA earnings, endorsements, and contracts.
His current contract with the Lakers is a fully guaranteed two-year deal worth approximately $12 million, averaging about $6 million per year.
Conclusion
Jake LaRavia’s story is one of steady progression—from high school standout to collegiate star and now an NBA professional making his mark in Los Angeles. With his size, skill set, and improving production, he remains a promising young forward with a growing profile both on and off the court. As LaRavia enters the next phase of his career, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see his continued development in the league.
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