Austin Reaves has quickly developed into one of the NBA’s most notable young talents, transforming himself from an undrafted prospect into a key contributor for the Los Angeles Lakers and a member of the United States national basketball team.
Reaves’ journey to NBA prominence has been one of perseverance and determination. After going undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft, the former Oklahoma standout earned an opportunity with the Lakers by signing a two-way contract and eventually securing a permanent role within the organization. His rise has been particularly impressive considering the limited expectations surrounding him when he entered the league.
The 28-year-old guard revealed that he turned down the possibility of being selected 42nd overall by the Detroit Pistons, choosing instead to pursue an opportunity where he believed he could maximize his development. That decision has since paid off, with Reaves becoming one of the most reliable players in Los Angeles’ rotation and a vital piece of the franchise’s future plans.
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His growth was rewarded when he agreed to a four-year, $186 million maximum contract extension with the Lakers, a historic deal that made him the highest-paid undrafted player in NBA history. The contract reflected not only his production on the court but also the value the organization places on his versatility, competitiveness, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Recently, Reaves generated attention beyond his performances after sharing his all-time NBA starting five during an appearance on the popular podcast “Pardon My Take.” While discussions about the greatest lineups in basketball history often lead to debate, Reaves’ selections drew additional interest after he included himself among some of the biggest names the sport has ever produced.
“All of the older people, don’t be mad at me because I’m talking personally from what I have seen and watched. Stephen Curry at the one. I have got to put myself in there, I can’t coach? Steph at the one, me at the two. It’s so much easier if I didn’t have to put myself in there because I would put Kobe Bryant at the two. We are gonna go Kobe at the three, LeBron James at the four and Shaquille O’Neal at the five,” Reaves said.
Austin Reaves listed his all-time starting five, which also included himself. (via Pardon My Take):
“Steph at the one, me at the two. It’s so much easier if I didn’t have to put myself in there because I would put Kobe [Bryant] at the two. We’re gonna go Kobe at the three, Bron… pic.twitter.com/JO3zXEQwg5
— 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐩𝑮𝒐𝒍𝒅 🏆 (@PurpGoldLakers) July 27, 2026
Reaves acknowledged that leaving himself out would have made the selection easier, but his final lineup featured four players widely regarded among the greatest to ever compete in the NBA: Stephen Curry, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Shaquille O’Neal.
His decision to include Bryant carries additional significance given Reaves’ long-standing connection to the Lakers. Growing up as a fan of the franchise, Reaves admired Bryant’s mentality, work ethic, and competitive approach—qualities that have influenced many players who followed him.
Bryant is widely considered one of the greatest shooting guards in basketball history, earning five NBA championships, two NBA Finals MVP awards, and an 18-time All-Star selection during his legendary career with the Lakers.
At point guard, Reaves selected Stephen Curry over other all-time greats such as Magic Johnson, a choice that highlights the impact Curry has had on the modern game. The Golden State Warriors star has transformed the way basketball is played with his revolutionary shooting ability and influence on offensive strategy.
Curry has won four NBA championships, two league MVP awards, and has established himself as one of the most prolific shooters in league history. Over his career, he has averaged 24.8 points and 6.3 assists per game while becoming the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made.
Reaves placed LeBron James at power forward, another selection that reflects the respect he has for a player he has shared the court with in Los Angeles. James and Reaves have spent five seasons together with the Lakers, forming a productive partnership as the franchise continues to compete for championships.
Often considered one of the greatest players in basketball history, James has consistently produced elite numbers throughout his career. During his time with the Lakers, he has averaged 25.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game, while leading the NBA in assists during the 2019-20 season—the same campaign in which he guided Los Angeles to its 17th NBA championship.
Rounding out Reaves’ lineup is Shaquille O’Neal at center. The dominant big man played a crucial role in the Lakers’ early-2000s dynasty, winning three consecutive championships and earning three Finals MVP awards. His combination of size, strength, and skill made him one of the most unstoppable forces the league has ever seen.
While all-time NBA lineups are always subjective and often spark passionate debates among fans, Reaves’ selections reflect the players who have had the biggest influence on his basketball journey. His inclusion of himself alongside legends also highlights the confidence that has helped fuel his remarkable rise from an undrafted rookie to one of the Lakers’ most important players.
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