Who is Austin Reaves?

Austin Reaves is an American professional basketball player who plays as a shooting guard and point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Known for his clutch performances and versatile offensive game, Reaves has steadily emerged as one of the league’s premier backcourt players.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Austin Tyler Reaves
• Date of Birth: May 29, 1998
• Age: 28 years old
• Birthplace: Newark, Arkansas, USA
• Height: 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters)
• Weight: 197 pounds (89 kg)
• Position: Shooting Guard / Point Guard
• Team: Los Angeles Lakers
• Jersey Number: 15

Austin Reaves Age

Austin Reaves was born on May 29, 1998, making him 28 years old in 2026. Despite entering the NBA later than many first-round prospects, Reaves has rapidly developed into one of the league’s most productive guards.

His maturity and experience from college basketball have been significant factors in his success. Unlike many young players who require years of development, Reaves quickly adapted to the professional game.

Austin Reaves Draft Story

One of the most remarkable aspects of Reaves’ career is that he went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft.

Why Was Austin Reaves Undrafted?

Several factors contributed to his draft-night disappointment:

1. Limited athletic upside compared to elite prospects.
2. Questions regarding his defensive capabilities.
3. Concerns about his ability to create against NBA defenders.
4. Playing at programs that did not generate massive national attention.

Instead of becoming discouraged, Reaves used the snub as motivation.

College Career

Reaves began his college basketball journey at Wichita State before transferring to Oklahoma.

At Oklahoma, he emerged as one of the nation’s top guards, averaging impressive scoring numbers while demonstrating excellent passing and leadership abilities.

His performances earned him All-Big 12 honors and significantly improved his professional prospects.

Austin Reaves and the Los Angeles Lakers

After going undrafted, Reaves signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021.

Initially viewed as a developmental player, he quickly impressed the coaching staff with his work ethic and basketball intelligence.

Rookie Season

During his rookie campaign, Reaves earned valuable playing time and delivered several memorable performances.

Lakers fans immediately embraced him because of his:

• High basketball IQ
• Clutch shot-making
• Team-first mentality
• Defensive effort
• Ability to play multiple positions

Rise to Prominence

As the seasons progressed, Reaves became an indispensable part of the Lakers’ rotation.

He developed excellent chemistry with superstars and showed that he could perform under pressure.

His ability to score, facilitate, and create offense made him one of the team’s most reliable players.

Austin Reaves Stats

Reaves has improved every season since entering the NBA.

Career NBA Averages

• Points: 15.8 per game
• Assists: 4.5 per game
• Rebounds: 3.9 per game
• Three-Point Percentage: 36.8%

These numbers illustrate his remarkable development from an undrafted player into a legitimate NBA star.

Breakout 2025-26 Season

The 2025-26 campaign was the best season of Reaves’ career.

He averaged:

• 23.3 points per game
• 5.5 assists per game
• 4.7 rebounds per game

Despite dealing with injuries during portions of the season, Reaves posted career highs in multiple statistical categories and further established himself as one of the league’s elite guards.

Why Austin Reaves Became So Valuable

Several traits have elevated Reaves’ value around the NBA.

Elite Scoring

Reaves can score at all three levels:

• Driving to the basket
• Mid-range shooting
• Three-point shooting

Playmaking Ability

He consistently creates opportunities for teammates and can function as a primary ball-handler.

Clutch Performances

Reaves has repeatedly delivered in high-pressure situations, earning the trust of coaches and teammates.

Versatility

He can play both guard positions and adapt to various offensive systems.

Austin Reaves Contract History

Rookie Contract

After joining the Lakers as an undrafted free agent, Reaves initially signed a modest contract.

Four-Year Extension

In 2023, he signed a four-year deal worth approximately $53.8 million with the Lakers.

The contract was viewed as one of the NBA’s best bargains because Reaves significantly outperformed his salary.

Salary Breakdown

During the contract:

• Average annual salary: Approximately $13.4 million
• Guaranteed money: Fully guaranteed
• Final season option: Player option for nearly $14.9 million

His production quickly surpassed the value of the deal, making him one of the league’s biggest underpaid stars.

Austin Reaves Max Contract

The biggest story surrounding Reaves in 2026 is his new maximum contract.

According to multiple reports, Reaves declined his player option and agreed to a massive four-year, $185 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. The deal includes a player option in the final season.

Contract Breakdown

Projected salaries include:

• 2026-27: $41.3 million
• 2027-28: $44.6 million
• 2028-29: $47.9 million
• 2029-30: $51.2 million player option

The agreement makes Reaves the highest-paid undrafted player in NBA history.

Why Did the Lakers Give Austin Reaves a Max Contract?

The Lakers had several reasons for making such a major financial commitment.

Proven Production

Reaves has consistently improved every season.

Prime Age

At 28 years old, he is entering his basketball prime.

Perfect Fit

He complements the Lakers’ star players and has become a foundational piece of the organization.

Leadership

Reaves’ work ethic and professionalism make him an ideal player around whom teams can build.

Is Austin Reaves Worth a Max Contract?

This question has sparked debate throughout the NBA community.

Arguments Supporting the Deal

1. Elite offensive production.
2. Strong shooting percentages.
3. Excellent playmaking skills.
4. High basketball IQ.
5. Proven ability to perform under pressure.

Concerns

1. Defensive limitations.
2. Significant financial commitment.
3. Future salary-cap implications.

However, considering the current NBA market and his continued improvement, many executives believe Reaves earned the contract through his performance.

Austin Reaves’ Impact on the Lakers

Reaves has evolved from an undrafted role player into one of the franchise’s most important stars.

His emergence provides the Lakers with:

• Reliable scoring
• Secondary playmaking
• Floor spacing
• Leadership
• Long-term stability

The organization clearly views him as a cornerstone player capable of helping the franchise compete for championships.

Austin Reaves’ Playing Style

Offensive Skills

Reaves excels at:

• Pick-and-roll creation
• Drawing fouls
• Finishing at the rim
• Three-point shooting
• Mid-range scoring

Basketball IQ

Perhaps his greatest strength is his understanding of the game.

He consistently makes smart decisions, rarely forces shots, and effectively reads defenses.

Competitive Mentality

Reaves plays with confidence and toughness, qualities that have endeared him to Lakers fans.

What’s Next for Austin Reaves?

The expectations surrounding Reaves are now greater than ever.

With his massive new contract and star status, he is expected to:

• Continue producing All-Star-caliber numbers
• Lead the Lakers’ backcourt
• Help the franchise contend for championships
• Establish himself among the NBA’s elite guards

The next phase of his career will determine whether he can fully justify one of the richest contracts ever given to an undrafted player.

Final Thoughts

Austin Reaves’ journey is one of the most inspiring stories in modern basketball.

Going undrafted in 2021 could have derailed his dreams. Instead, it motivated him to work harder and prove doubters wrong.

Today, he is:

• A key player for the Los Angeles Lakers
• One of the NBA’s most efficient guards
• A proven scorer and playmaker
• The recipient of a four-year, $185 million maximum contract
• The highest-paid undrafted player in league history

Reaves’ story demonstrates that talent, determination, and relentless effort can overcome any obstacle. As he enters the prime years of his career, the basketball world will be watching to see whether he can elevate his game even further and lead the Lakers back to championship glory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How old is Austin Reaves?

Austin Reaves is 28 years old. He was born on May 29, 1998.

Was Austin Reaves drafted?

No. Austin Reaves went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft.

What team does Austin Reaves play for?

He plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA.

What position does Austin Reaves play?

He plays as a shooting guard and point guard.

What are Austin Reaves’ career averages?

His career averages include approximately 15.8 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game.

What is Austin Reaves’ new contract?

Reaves reportedly agreed to a four-year, $185 million maximum contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2026.

Is Austin Reaves the highest-paid undrafted player ever?

Yes. His new contract reportedly makes him the highest-paid undrafted player in NBA history.