Austin Reaves College Stats: From Wichita State To Arkansas

Hey guys! Ever wondered about the journey of Austin Reaves before he became a fan favorite in the NBA? Well, a huge part of his development happened during his college years. Let's dive deep into Austin Reaves' college stats, exploring his time at both Wichita State and Arkansas. Understanding his performance in college gives us a great perspective on his growth and potential as a player.

Early Days at Wichita State

Austin Reaves started his college basketball career with the Wichita State Shockers. During his freshman and sophomore seasons, he showed flashes of brilliance, hinting at the player he would eventually become. Although he wasn't the primary star of the team just yet, his contributions were significant. Let's break down his stats and impact during these early years.

Freshman Year (2016-2017)

In his freshman year, Austin Reaves played a supporting role, getting his feet wet in the world of college basketball. He appeared in 33 games, averaging 2.2 points and 0.7 rebounds per game. While these numbers might seem modest, it's important to remember that freshman year is often about adjusting to the speed and physicality of the college game. He shot 44.9% from the field and 31.3% from beyond the arc, indicating a solid shooting foundation that would improve over time. His assist-to-turnover ratio was nearly 1:1, showing a cautious approach to ball-handling as he learned the ropes. During this season, he had a few standout performances, providing glimpses of his future potential. His role was primarily to provide energy off the bench and contribute in small but meaningful ways. The experience he gained during this year was crucial for his development. He learned to navigate the demands of college basketball, understand team dynamics, and improve his overall game IQ. The coaching staff recognized his potential and worked with him to hone his skills, preparing him for a more significant role in the future.

Sophomore Year (2017-2018)

As a sophomore, Austin Reaves began to take on a slightly larger role for the Shockers. He appeared in all 32 games, averaging 8.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. His shooting percentages improved, as he hit 47.9% of his field goals and 35.5% of his three-pointers. These numbers reflected his increased confidence and comfort on the court. He also demonstrated improved court awareness and decision-making. He showed a greater willingness to take on scoring opportunities and create plays for his teammates. Defensively, he became more active, contributing more steals and deflections. One of his standout performances during this season included a game where he scored over 20 points, showcasing his ability to take over games when needed. His increased playing time and responsibilities allowed him to develop his all-around game, setting the stage for his transfer to Arkansas. The coaching staff continued to emphasize his development, focusing on his shooting mechanics, ball-handling skills, and defensive techniques. By the end of his sophomore year, it was clear that Austin Reaves was on the path to becoming a star player.

Transfer to Arkansas and NCAA Regulations

After his sophomore season, Austin Reaves made the decision to transfer to the University of Arkansas. Due to NCAA transfer rules at the time, he had to sit out the 2018-2019 season. This redshirt year was a crucial period for him to focus on individual development and adjust to a new team environment. While he couldn't participate in games, he practiced with the team and worked closely with the coaching staff to refine his skills.

During his redshirt year, Austin Reaves spent countless hours in the gym, working on his shooting, ball-handling, and overall strength and conditioning. He also focused on learning the Razorbacks' offensive and defensive systems. This year of dedicated training and preparation proved to be invaluable, as it allowed him to come back stronger and more prepared than ever. He also used this time to build relationships with his new teammates and integrate himself into the team culture. The coaching staff provided him with detailed feedback and guidance, helping him to identify areas for improvement and develop a plan to reach his full potential. The redshirt year was not just a period of waiting; it was a strategic investment in his future success. By the time he was eligible to play, he was fully prepared to make a significant impact on the court.

Thriving at Arkansas

Once eligible to play for the Arkansas Razorbacks, Austin Reaves truly blossomed. His junior and senior seasons were marked by significant improvements in his scoring, playmaking, and overall leadership. He became a central figure in the team's offense, showcasing his ability to score from anywhere on the court and create opportunities for his teammates. His time at Arkansas solidified his reputation as a versatile and dynamic player.

Junior Year (2019-2020)

In his junior year, Austin Reaves made an immediate impact, stepping into a prominent role for the Razorbacks. He started in all 32 games, averaging 14.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. His scoring output more than doubled from his sophomore year at Wichita State, demonstrating his rapid development. He shot 44.9% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range, showcasing his improved shooting accuracy. His assist numbers also increased, highlighting his playmaking abilities. One of his standout performances during this season included multiple games where he scored over 20 points, leading the team to crucial victories. He also demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, hitting clutch shots in key moments. Defensively, he continued to improve, contributing more steals and deflections. His overall impact on the team was undeniable, as he became one of the primary scoring options and playmakers. The coaching staff praised his work ethic and dedication, recognizing his commitment to continuous improvement. By the end of his junior year, Austin Reaves had established himself as one of the top players in the SEC.

Senior Year (2020-2021)

Austin Reaves' senior year was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, leading the Razorbacks to an impressive season. He earned All-SEC honors and was recognized as one of the top players in the conference. His shooting percentages remained high, as he hit 49.3% of his field goals and 30.5% from three-point range. He also improved his free-throw shooting, becoming a reliable option in late-game situations. One of his most memorable performances included a game where he scored over 30 points, showcasing his ability to take over games when needed. He also demonstrated his leadership skills, guiding the team through tough stretches and making crucial plays in critical moments. Defensively, he continued to be a valuable asset, contributing steals and deflections. His senior year solidified his status as a top NBA prospect, as he showcased his all-around game and ability to perform at a high level. The coaching staff lauded his leadership and dedication, recognizing his impact on the team's success. By the end of his senior year, Austin Reaves had left an indelible mark on the Arkansas basketball program.

Detailed Stats Overview

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a table summarizing Austin Reaves' college stats:

Conclusion

Looking at Austin Reaves' college stats, it’s clear that his time in college was a period of significant growth and development. From his early days at Wichita State to his standout performances at Arkansas, he consistently improved his game and showcased his versatility. These college years laid the foundation for his successful transition to the NBA. So, the next time you see him making a clutch play for the Lakers, remember the journey he took through college to get there!