Jake LaRavia
Jake LaRavia was born in Pasadena, California, but his family moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, when he was five years old. He played basketball for Lawrence Central High School in Indianapolis. His senior season was outstanding, with averages of 17.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 2.3 steals per game. LaRavia helped Lawrence Central win its first sectional title since 2012, being named an Indiana All-Star. Initially, he committed to playing college basketball for SIU Edwardsville, but reopened his recruitment after a coaching change, then opting for Indiana State. University Career Indiana State Sycamores (2019–2021) LaRavia played for two seasons at Indiana State University, where he had an immediate impact: 2019–2020 (Freshman): Was named to the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) All-Freshman Team and All-Newcomer Team. 2020–2021 (Sophomore): Averaged 12.5 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, being named to the Second Team All-MVC. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2021–2022) In 2021, LaRavia transferred to Wake Forest University. In his only season in the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference), he established himself as one of the conference’s top players, with averages of 14.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. His performances earned him a nomination to the Second Team All-ACC (2022). In March 2022, he declared for the NBA Draft, foregoing his remaining college eligibility. Professional Career in the NBA Draft and Memphis Grizzlies (2022–2025) LaRavia was selected as the 19th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, he was immediately traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. NBA Debut: On October 19, 2022, LaRavia made his NBA debut, recording five points and two rebounds in an overtime victory against the New York Knicks. G League: During his time with the Grizzlies, he also had stints with the Memphis Hustle, the team’s NBA G League affiliate. Sacramento Kings (2025) On February 6, 2025, LaRavia was involved in a three-team trade that sent him to the Sacramento Kings. Los Angeles Lakers (2025–Present) After the end of the 2024–25 season, LaRavia became an unrestricted free agent. In June 2025, he signed a two-year contract worth $12 million with the Los Angeles Lakers. Playing Style Jake LaRavia is recognized as a versatile player who can play as a small forward (SF) or power forward (PF). He is notable for his good mid-range shooting and his defensive intelligence. He is considered an efficient off-ball mover and has a good understanding of the game, which allows him to defend multiple positions on the court. Career Highlights Second Team All-ACC (2022) Second Team All-MVC (2021) MVC All-Freshman and All-Newcomer Team (2020)
