Hey guys, let's dive into a question many basketball fans have been asking: Was Austin Reaves in the G League? It's a common query, especially for players who make a significant impact in the NBA after seemingly coming out of nowhere. Reaves, with his smooth game and clutch performances for the Los Angeles Lakers, has captured the attention of many. His journey to NBA stardom is a testament to hard work and perseverance, and understanding his path, including any potential G League stints, gives us a fuller picture of his development. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and let's unravel the story of Austin Reaves' early career and see if the G League was a chapter in his basketball journey.

Austin Reaves' College Career and Draft Journey

Before we talk about the G League, it's crucial to understand Austin Reaves' path to the NBA, which didn't involve a direct jump from high school. Reaves played his college ball at Wichita State and then transferred to the University of Oklahoma. During his collegiate career, he showed flashes of the scoring ability and playmaking that would later define his NBA game. He wasn't a highly touted five-star recruit, but he steadily improved and proved himself to be a capable scorer and playmaker at the NCAA Division I level. He declared for the NBA Draft in 2020. However, things didn't go as planned on draft night. Despite his solid college numbers, Reaves wasn't selected by any team in the 2020 NBA Draft. This is where many players consider alternative routes, such as the G League, to develop their skills and try to catch the eye of NBA scouts. The fact that he went undrafted is a key piece of information when discussing his professional career trajectory. It means he had to fight for his opportunity, and that's precisely what he did. His journey highlights that not everyone follows a straight path to the league, and sometimes, the road less traveled can lead to great success. The disappointment of not being drafted must have been significant, but it clearly fueled his determination to prove the doubters wrong. He didn't let that setback define him; instead, he used it as motivation to push even harder. His college stats at Oklahoma were respectable, averaging 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game in his junior year, showcasing his all-around game. These numbers, while good, weren't always enough to guarantee draft selection in a talent-rich league like the NBA. The G League often serves as a proving ground for players like Reaves who have the potential but need more time to develop or showcase their abilities against professional competition. So, the question of his G League involvement becomes even more pertinent given his draft status.

The Path After the Draft: G League or Undrafted Free Agency?

So, after going undrafted in the 2020 NBA Draft, what was next for Austin Reaves? Did he sign with a G League team, hoping to work his way up? Or did he take a different route? This is where the narrative gets interesting. Instead of immediately joining a G League affiliate, Austin Reaves signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. What's an Exhibit 10 contract, you ask? Essentially, it's a one-year, minimum-salary contract that includes a guarantee that if the player is waived and then signs with the team's G League affiliate, the contract converts into a two-way contract. It also often includes a small signing bonus and a guarantee that the player will receive a bonus if they are waived and then added to the G League roster. This type of contract is a common pathway for undrafted players to get a training camp invitation and a chance to prove themselves. It's a bit of a gamble for both the player and the team. The player gets a shot, and the team gets a low-risk look at a potential talent. In Reaves' case, this contract meant he was invited to the Lakers' training camp. He wasn't guaranteed a roster spot, but he had the opportunity to compete. The Lakers, being a team with a rich history and high expectations, offer a unique environment for any player trying to make a name for themselves. The pressure is immense, but the potential reward is even greater. This contract structure allowed the Lakers to keep Reaves in their system, either on the main roster or with their G League team, the South Bay Lakers, without fully committing a guaranteed roster spot initially. It's a strategic move that many teams employ to scout talent. So, while he didn't technically start in the G League, the possibility was very much alive and intertwined with his Exhibit 10 deal. The Exhibit 10 contract is crucial because it bridges the gap between being undrafted and potentially finding a stable professional role. It's a contract that signals belief from a team, even if it's not a full guarantee.

Reaves' Breakthrough with the Lakers

Austin Reaves' journey with the Los Angeles Lakers is a fantastic example of how hard work and seizing opportunities can lead to success. After signing that Exhibit 10 contract, he impressed the Lakers' coaching staff and front office during training camp and the preseason. He showed a maturity beyond his years, a good basketball IQ, and a knack for making the right plays. This strong showing led to him earning a two-way contract with the team. A two-way contract is a special type of deal in the NBA that allows a player to split time between the NBA team and its G League affiliate. Players on two-way contracts can play a limited number of games for the NBA team, typically around 45 days or 45 games, before a decision needs to be made about their future. It's a crucial step for players like Reaves, as it offers them consistent professional basketball experience in both leagues. While on his two-way contract, Reaves saw action for both the Lakers and the South Bay Lakers (their G League team). This experience was invaluable. He got to play significant minutes in the G League, hone his skills, and adapt to the professional game. Simultaneously, he was getting exposure to the NBA, learning from veteran players, and absorbing the team's system. His performance, particularly his scoring efficiency and playmaking, continued to impress. As the season progressed, Reaves earned more playing time with the main Lakers squad. He demonstrated an ability to score from all three levels, handle the ball, and defend. His confidence grew with each game, and he started to become a reliable contributor off the bench. Eventually, the Lakers saw enough potential and impact to convert his two-way contract into a standard, fully guaranteed NBA contract. This was a major milestone, solidifying his place on the roster and signaling their long-term belief in him. So, while Austin Reaves did not begin his professional career exclusively in the G League, his time on a two-way contract meant he did play games for the South Bay Lakers. This period was critical for his development and transition into becoming a key player for one of the most storied franchises in the NBA. His rise is a testament to the opportunities available through two-way contracts and the development programs within NBA organizations.

The Verdict: Did Austin Reaves Play in the G League?

Let's get straight to the point, guys. Did Austin Reaves play in the G League? The answer is YES, but not in the way you might initially think. He didn't get drafted and then sent down to the G League for an extended developmental period like some players do. Instead, as we've discussed, Reaves went undrafted in 2020. He then signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, which allowed him to participate in training camp. Because he impressed enough, he earned a two-way contract. It was this two-way contract that officially led to him playing games for the Lakers' G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. So, while his primary goal and eventual success came with the main Lakers squad, his time on the two-way contract means he absolutely suited up and played in G League games. This experience was crucial for his development, allowing him to get significant playing time and refine his game against professional competition outside the intense spotlight of the NBA. It provided him with a vital stepping stone, bridging the gap between his undrafted status and becoming a key contributor for the Lakers. His journey highlights the importance of the G League as a development system, even for players who ultimately find their niche in the NBA. It's a place where talent can be nurtured and opportunities can be earned. So, next time you see Reaves hitting a big shot for the Lakers, remember that his path likely included valuable minutes and growth on the G League hardwood. It's a testament to his dedication and the effectiveness of the G League in developing NBA talent. He proved that even without being drafted, with the right opportunities and hard work, you can make a significant impact in the league. His story is an inspiration to many aspiring basketball players out there who might be facing similar paths.