Image Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

“Big Reason I Am Here” – Austin Reaves Credits Anthony Davis For Mentorship After Lakers Victory

Image Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Austin Reaves has continued his breakout season with the Los Angeles Lakers, delivering another standout performance against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. Following the victory, the guard offered heartfelt credit to his former teammate Anthony Davis, acknowledging the veteran’s influence on his All‑Star caliber ascent.

Reaves, who dropped 38 points on 80 percent shooting in the 129‑119 win, reflected on his journey and the role Davis played in his early years. The two reunited at Crypto.com Arena, where a jersey swap highlighted their bond. “I mean, he’s one of the best players to have ever touched a basketball. I don’t know why he wanted my jersey but for me to get his it is pretty fun,” Reaves said.

He continued by expressing gratitude for Davis’ mentorship. “I got a lot of love for AD. He is a big reason that I am where I am right now,” Austin Reaves explained. “From day one, he was telling me to be myself, don’t be anybody else, continue to work and really just be myself on the court, so I owe him a lot, I wish him nothing but the best.”

AUSTIN REAVES TONIGHT:

38 POINTS
8 REBOUNDS
3 ASSISTS
12/15 FGM
6/8 3PM
41 MINUTES

ALL-STAR pic.twitter.com/y3I27L4Y50
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) November 29, 2025

Austin Reaves Recalls Shared Years and Championship Run With Davis

Anthony Davis was among the senior figures when Reaves joined the Lakers in 2021. Together, they captured the NBA Cup in 2023 and shared three and a half seasons before Davis was traded to the Mavericks in February. Their reunion underscored the respect Reaves still holds for his former teammate.

Since Davis’ departure, Austin Reaves has flourished alongside Luka Doncic, averaging 27.9 points and 7.0 assists this season. His rapid rise has positioned him as an early favorite for what could be his first All‑Star selection.

After the win, Austin Reaves also discussed his growing chemistry with LeBron James and Doncic. “I finally made some three’s so that was nice,” he said. “Like you said, Luka draws so much attention and Bron’s obviously Bron, they are going to get the majority of the attention and I kind of run around out there and find open spots and make shots.”

The Lakers’ sixth consecutive victory secured their place in the Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinals, where they will host the San Antonio Spurs.