Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers had a very busy summer.
Not only did he sign a new contract with his team, but he also spent plenty of time in the gym and represented America in the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
The tournament didn’t turn out like the Americans hoped but Reaves wants to play on behalf of his country again.
According to Dave McMenamin and ESPN, Reaves said he’s totally on board to be on Team USA in next year’s Olympic games.
“If I get that call to play, I’ll be the first one to say yes. But it’s not like I’m not realistic of myself,” Reaves said.
Austin Reaves keeps it real regarding the 2024 Paris Olympics.
(via @mcten) pic.twitter.com/O4ZED6nLU9
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) October 13, 2023
Reaves did wonderful work during his time with the team this summer.
He averaged 13.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game and was consistently playing with energy and drive.
He was the highlight of multiple games and received even more attention from basketball fans from all over the world.
Reaves would be a valuable asset to Team USA when it visits Paris next summer in hopes of redeeming itself and again winning a gold medal.
However, Reaves is realistic that there simply may not be space for him on the roster.
Team USA had a unique approach for the World Cup and relied upon the talent of many up-and-coming stars and not as many veteran All-Stars.
But that probably won’t be the case with the 2024 Olympics.
There are reports that LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Stephen Curry, and other superstars are ready to suit up.
If Team USA is filled with athletes like that, younger players such as Reaves might take a backseat.
Even with James, Durant, and the rest, Team USA could still use relentless and driven players like Reaves.
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