One of basketball’s greatest underdog stories has reached historic heights.
Newark, Arkansas native and Cedar Ridge High School graduate Austin Reaves has agreed to a 4-year, $185 million maximum contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, making him the highest-paid undrafted player in NBA history.
Reaves starred at Cedar Ridge High School, leading the Timberwolves to 3 Arkansas state championships. As a senior, he averaged 32.5 points, 8.8 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game while earning Arkansas state tournament MVP honors. He also scored an incredible 73 points in a triple-overtime game during his high school career.
Despite those accomplishments, Reaves went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft before earning a roster spot with the Lakers.
Five years later, the 28-year-old has become one of the NBA’s top shooting guards. Last season, he averaged 23.3 points, 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game while helping lead the Lakers.
Basketball runs in the family. Both of Reaves’ parents played college basketball at Arkansas State University, and his work ethic and determination have transformed him from an overlooked prospect into one of the NBA’s biggest success stories.
His incredible journey includes:
• 2021 — Undrafted
• 2023 — Full-time Lakers Starter
• 2026 — Signs a 4-year, $185 Million Max Contract
From Cedar Ridge High School in Newark to the bright lights of Los Angeles, Austin Reaves has proven that perseverance and hard work can make history.
SEO JPEG Image: Austin Reaves celebrating in a Los Angeles Lakers uniform during an NBA game with an arena crowd in the background. No text.
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