Added: Aug 11, 2023
In this podcast episode, Austin Reaves, a professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers, joins the hosts for a spontaneous conversation. They discuss various topics, including Reaves' recent contract signing, his own shoe line, playing with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers' playoff run, and his personal goals for the upcoming season.Reaves begins by expressing his excitement about signing a new contract with the Lakers. He mentions that he wanted to stay in LA and feels that his hard work has paid off. He also mentions that there were rumors about the San Antonio Spurs being interested in signing him, but he ultimately wanted to return to the Lakers. The conversation then shifts to the topic of the NBA offseason and the various moves made by other teams. Reaves acknowledges that he pays attention to what other teams are doing but remains confident in the Lakers' roster. He believes that they have a chance to beat any team with the core they have and the new additions they made. The hosts ask Reaves about his own shoe line, which he recently launched with a Chinese shoe company called RIGOR. Reaves explains that they initially approached him for an endorsement deal, but after a successful season, they offered him his own shoe. He is excited about the opportunity and mentions that his shoes will be available for purchase on the company's website. The conversation then turns to Reaves' experience playing with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Reaves expresses his admiration for both players and mentions that he feels comfortable playing alongside them. He credits their talent and skill for making his job easier on the court. He also mentions that LeBron has given him advice to be himself and not defer to him on the court. The hosts bring up the Lakers' playoff run and their loss to the Denver Nuggets in the previous season. Reaves acknowledges that they had high expectations going into the series but believes that they were close to winning some of the games. He mentions that Nikola Jokic was a tough opponent and played at a different level. He also mentions that the team tried various strategies to stop him but ultimately fell short. The conversation then shifts to the topic of social media and its impact on players. Reaves mentions that he is not a big social media user and doesn't pay much attention to negative comments or criticism. He finds some of the comments funny, especially those from people who bet on games and get upset when they lose. He believes that social media can be both good and bad but doesn't let it affect him personally. The hosts ask Reaves about his golfing hobby, and he mentions that he plays golf almost every day. He started playing in college and fell in love with the sport. He also mentions that he plays golf with his teammate D'Angelo Russell and they sometimes place bets on their games. Reaves discusses his work ethic and how he has always had to work hard to prove himself. He mentions that he didn't have many scholarship offers out of high school and went undrafted in the NBA. However, he always believed in himself and knew that he just needed an opportunity to showcase his skills. The conversation concludes with Reaves expressing his goal of winning a championship with the Lakers. He mentions that playing in the playoffs and experiencing the intensity and level of play has been the most fun he has had in basketball. He is determined to continue working hard and improving his game to contribute to the team's success.