Austin Reaves has blossomed into one of the NBA’s most impressive success stories—going from undrafted free agent to a key starter on a contending team. And according to Reaves, much of that growth and development can be traced back to one person: LeBron James. Speaking to reporters, Reaves opened up about how LeBron has shaped his career, both on and off the court.
“Yeah, I mean, as all of y’all have probably seen from my rookie year, when a tweet got posted from when I was 12 talking about, I basically was just talking shit on LeBron, wasn’t a huge LeBron fan, I was a Kobe fan, so automatically I didn’t love him.”
“But obviously always respected his game and then just being around him every single day, the joy he brings to the team. He’s never in a bad mood. For him to welcome me when I was on a two-way contract to where I am today and treat me the same. I owe him a lot for what he’s helped me accomplish.”
Reaves’ journey from overlooked prospect to a legitimate All-Star caliber player has been nothing short of remarkable. In his fourth season with the Lakers, he’s averaging a career-high 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists while shooting 46.0% from the field and 37.7% from beyond the arc.
He has evolved into a versatile offensive threat who can score, create, and lead—something that seemed unlikely during his humble beginnings.
When Reaves first joined the Lakers, he was fighting for minutes and looking to prove he belonged. LeBron quickly saw potential in the gritty guard and made a point to support him, even while pushing him to get better.
That trust became especially evident in Reaves’ second year, when LeBron began leaning on him in high-pressure moments—most notably during the playoffs in 2023.
Whether it was late-game ball-handling duties or taking the final shot, Reaves earned LeBron’s confidence. That’s not something James gives lightly.
Now in his fourth season and his first under rookie head coach JJ Redick, Reaves has fully stepped into a leadership role. With Luka Doncic joining the team in a blockbuster mid-season trade, Reaves has proven he’s more than just a role player—he’s the third star in what many are calling the Lakers’ new big three.
And you can see the chemistry and trust between LeBron and Reaves, especially during moments of triumph. After the Lakers clinched the 3rd seed with a win over the Houston Rockets, both of them celebrated in pure joy.
LEBRON JAMES 💜💛 AUSTIN REAVES
LAKERS TEAM CHEMISTRY >>>>> pic.twitter.com/bRSVIlVklZ
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) April 12, 2025
LeBron put Reaves in a playful headlock, and the two were seen laughing and smiling before jumping up like little kids. It marked the first time they had secured a direct playoff berth together—avoiding the play-in entirely—and their emotions reflected the bond they’ve built over the years.
His chemistry with both LeBron and Luka has made the Lakers one of the most dynamic offensive teams in the league.
If Reaves continues on this trajectory, an All-Star appearance next season seems inevitable.
But no matter how far his individual career takes him, he’ll never forget who helped him believe in his own greatness. LeBron James didn’t just mentor Austin Reaves—he empowered him.
