Austin Reaves: College Career, Stats, And Highlights

by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into the incredible college journey of Austin Reaves. Before he became a fan-favorite in the NBA, Reaves carved out an impressive career in college basketball. We're going to explore his time with the Wichita State Shockers and then his transfer to the Arkansas Razorbacks. Get ready for a deep dive into his stats, achievements, and some unforgettable highlights!

Early Days at Wichita State

Austin Reaves started his college basketball journey with the Wichita State Shockers. He joined the team in the 2016-2017 season. During his freshman year, Reaves played a relatively limited role but showed flashes of potential. He appeared in 33 games, averaging 22.5 minutes per game, and contributed 4.1 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. Though these numbers weren't eye-popping, it was clear that Reaves had a knack for the game and a solid foundation to build upon.

In his sophomore season (2017-2018), Austin's role expanded significantly. He became a more integral part of the Shockers' lineup, playing an average of 34.4 minutes per game. His scoring output increased substantially, with Reaves averaging 8.1 points per game. He also improved his rebounding, pulling down 3.1 boards per game, and dishing out 1.6 assists per game. One of the most memorable moments from his time at Wichita State was his performance against Charleston, where he scored 23 points, showcasing his ability to take over games offensively. During his time with the Shockers, Reaves demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn, which set the stage for his later success.

Reaves's time at Wichita State was crucial in developing his skills and understanding of the game. He learned to play under pressure, make quick decisions, and contribute to a winning team. These early experiences laid the groundwork for his future achievements. While he may not have been a star right away, his dedication and hard work were evident, setting him up for a breakout performance later in his college career.

Transfer to Arkansas

After two seasons with the Wichita State Shockers, Austin Reaves made a pivotal decision to transfer to the University of Arkansas Razorbacks. This move marked a significant turning point in his college basketball career. Due to NCAA transfer rules at the time, Reaves had to sit out the 2018-2019 season. Although he couldn't play in games, this redshirt year was far from a waste. It provided him with an invaluable opportunity to hone his skills, adapt to a new team environment, and learn the Razorbacks' system. He practiced with the team, lifted weights, and worked closely with the coaching staff to improve his game.

The redshirt year allowed Reaves to focus on specific aspects of his game that needed improvement. He worked on his shooting, ball-handling, and decision-making. This dedicated time to refine his skills paid off immensely when he finally stepped onto the court for the Razorbacks. The coaching staff at Arkansas recognized his potential and worked with him to unlock his full capabilities. This period of focused training was instrumental in his development as a player.

Furthermore, the year off allowed Austin to build strong relationships with his new teammates. He integrated into the team culture and developed chemistry with the other players, which would prove essential when he finally began playing games. The transfer to Arkansas was not just a change of scenery; it was a strategic move that allowed him to grow both as a player and as a person, setting the stage for a remarkable final chapter in his college career.

Junior Year Breakout

Austin Reaves's junior year with the Arkansas Razorbacks marked his official debut with the team, and he didn't disappoint. After sitting out the previous season due to transfer rules, Reaves was eager to make an impact, and that's exactly what he did. He started all 32 games for the Razorbacks, averaging 30.5 minutes per game. His scoring output jumped to an impressive 14.4 points per game, showcasing his growth as an offensive threat. He also contributed 4.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game, demonstrating his all-around abilities on the court.

One of the standout performances of his junior year was his game against Texas A&M, where he scored 25 points, highlighting his ability to score against tough competition. Reaves displayed his versatility by scoring in double figures in 25 games, establishing himself as a reliable and consistent player for the Razorbacks. His playmaking abilities also shone through, as he consistently made smart passes and created scoring opportunities for his teammates. Beyond the stats, Reaves brought a level of leadership and composure to the team that was invaluable.

During this season, Austin showcased his ability to handle pressure situations, often taking and making crucial shots in close games. His basketball IQ and court awareness were evident, as he consistently made smart decisions and capitalized on defensive lapses by the opposition. Reaves's junior year was a testament to his hard work and dedication, proving that his transfer to Arkansas was indeed the right move. He transformed from a role player into a key contributor, setting the stage for an even more remarkable senior season.

Senior Year Stardom

In his senior year at the University of Arkansas, Austin Reaves truly blossomed into a star. He elevated his game to new heights, becoming the go-to player for the Razorbacks and solidifying his status as one of the top players in the SEC. Reaves started all 25 games, averaging an impressive 34.9 minutes per game. His scoring output soared to 18.3 points per game, leading the team and demonstrating his evolution into a premier offensive threat. He also contributed 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game, showcasing his all-around impact on the court.

Reaves had several memorable performances during his senior year, including a game against Kentucky where he scored 23 points, demonstrating his ability to perform against top-tier opponents. Another highlight was his performance against Missouri, where he recorded a career-high 34 points, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. His ability to score, pass, and rebound made him a triple-threat, and his leadership on and off the court was instrumental in the team's success. Reaves's senior year was not just about individual accolades; it was about leading his team and making those around him better.

Austin earned numerous awards and recognition for his outstanding play. He was named to the All-SEC First Team, a testament to his exceptional performance throughout the season. He was also a finalist for the Jerry West Award, given to the nation's top shooting guard. His impact extended beyond the basketball court, as he became a fan favorite and a role model for aspiring young players. Reaves's senior year was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, solidifying his legacy as one of the great players in Arkansas Razorbacks history.

College Stats Overview

To truly appreciate Austin Reaves's college career, let's take a quick look at his stats. Across his time at Wichita State and Arkansas, he consistently improved, demonstrating his dedication to growth.

  • Wichita State (2016-2018):
    • Freshman Year: 4.1 PPG, 1.8 RPG, 1.1 APG
    • Sophomore Year: 8.1 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 1.6 APG
  • Arkansas (2019-2021):
    • Junior Year: 14.4 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 3.3 APG
    • Senior Year: 18.3 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 4.6 APG

These numbers illustrate Reaves's consistent development and his increasing impact on the court. His senior year stats, in particular, highlight his transformation into a star player.

Highlights and Achievements

Throughout his college career, Austin Reaves accumulated several notable highlights and achievements:

  • All-SEC First Team (2021): Recognized as one of the top players in the Southeastern Conference.
  • Jerry West Award Finalist (2021): Acknowledged as one of the best shooting guards in the nation.
  • Career-High 34 Points vs. Missouri (2021): Showcased his scoring prowess in a standout performance.
  • Multiple 20+ Point Games: Consistently demonstrated his ability to score against tough competition.
  • Key Role in Arkansas's NCAA Tournament Appearances: Helped lead the Razorbacks to success in March Madness.

These achievements highlight Reaves's impact on his team and his recognition as one of the top players in college basketball.

Impact and Legacy

Austin Reaves left a lasting impact and legacy at both Wichita State and Arkansas. He is remembered for his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his team. Reaves inspired his teammates and fans with his exceptional play and his leadership on and off the court. His journey from a relatively unknown player to a college star is a testament to his perseverance and determination.

Reaves's success also opened doors for future players, showing them that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. His impact extended beyond the basketball court, as he became a role model for aspiring young athletes. Reaves's legacy will continue to inspire generations of basketball players, reminding them to never give up on their dreams.

So there you have it, guys! Austin Reaves's college years were nothing short of spectacular. From his early days at Wichita State to his breakout performances at Arkansas, he proved that hard work and dedication truly pay off. And now, he's making waves in the NBA. Keep an eye on this guy – he's got a bright future ahead!