What a year it has been for Austin Reaves. From impressing in the playoffs last season to leaving a strong impression in the FIBA World Cup 2023 thus far. Nicknamed AR15 he has come off the bench in all three showings against New Zealand, Greece, and Jordan. The guard is showing his doubters why he is deserving of the four year 56 million contract with the Lakers. Reaves has made history for Team USA by becoming the only Team USA Member aside from Lebron James to have at least a 15/5/5 stat since 1994.
Austin Reaves Impresses In FIBA World Cup, USA Undefeated
Against New Zealand
From the first game in the FIBA group stage against New Zealand the crowd was cheering him on as he seems to be a fan favorite in the Philippines. The Laker’s aggressive and fast style was showcased on Saturday August 26 with a 99-72 win for America’s team. AR15 had 12 points, 6 assists, and 2 rebounds in 22 minutes of action. Reaves started strong with an assist to Paolo Blanchero early in the first quarter. Alongside a couple of threes has left the fans wanting for more as he does his signature celebration pose.
Furthermore, late in the third quarter he showcased his defense with a couple of steals that led to a drive in layup. He left the game with a team high 5 assists and a team high +20 in just 13 minutes. The game announcer even suggested the Laker was arguably the best player of the night.
Against Greece
FIBA appreciated his performances by awarding AR15 the player of the game award. He had 15 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds in 17 minutes. He left halftime with an impressive 6 points, 1 assist and a steal within just seven minutes. Gave out huge 6th man vibes by scoring the most point off the bench. He was first in points, second in rebounds, first in assists, and 4/7 from the field. However, going against Jordan he had a bit of a setback.
Against Jordan
Although he had a minor setback he still did pretty good against Jordan with 8 points, 1 assist, 2 rebounds in 19 minutes of playtime. Also Reaves was heavily guarded at one point by a Jordan defender but AR15 showed he has ice in his veins with 3 second left on the shot clock before halftime with a step-back three heavily contested and swished it in. The young star finished the game with a quick bullet pass to Cameron Johnson to end the game with a 110-62 win for Team USA leaving them undefeated so far in the tournament. So what is next for Team USA and Austin Reaves in the FIBA World Cup.
What’s Next for Reaves
Team USA looks ready to face Montenegro in the next round on Friday September 1st in the next FIBA round. It will be interesting to see how Reaves will display his talents off the bench against Montenegro. With the way Austin Reaves has been playing for Team USA he is due for a big season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Furthermore, Reeves looks to be a possible 3rd option for Lebron James and Anthony Davis. Therefore, maybe a breakout season in both the NBA and FIBA could land the 25 year old with many All Star votes.
