The 2023 FIBA World Cup has witnessed some electrifying performances so far. NBA stars shined brighter than ever as they took over the tournament. Team USA especially have asserted their dominance in the tournament yet again with three consecutive victories, including a 48-point blowout against Team Jordan. However, a Los Angeles Lakers star has been so impressive that he received praise from The King, LeBron James himself.

LeBron James hopped on the bandwagon of NBA stars hailing the dominant Team USA recently. While he hailed multiple players on the roster, he specifically called out his Lakers teammate’s brilliance. The Chosen One crowned the $53,827,872 star his “favorite player” after a sensational performance. Now, he has taken a page out of the King’s book, further elating James.

A Lakers star recreates an iconic LeBron James stat

LeBron James had one of the most memorable Team USA stints in history. The Akron Hammer took every tournament he represented Team USA in by storm, putting up unreal numbers in the process. One such was a historic 15 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists stat line for Team USA that has not been recreated since. Until Austin Reaves happened.

James’ Lakers teammate, Austin Reaves became the first player not named LeBron James to put up the iconic stat line since 1994. He went off against Team Jordan, putting up 15 points and 6 assists while grabbing 5 rebounds. And believe it or not, he achieved this incredible feat off the bench.

His sensational effort earned him the Player of the Game honors as well. This also helped Team USA secure a dominant win over Team Greece to solidify their hold over the top spot in Group C.

Austin Reaves had a spectacular NBA season with the Lakers that prompted his $53,827,872 contract extension with the franchise. He carried this remarkable form to the FIBA World Cup, going off for spectacular performances throughout. From the very first game, the 25-year-old showcased his terrific shot-making skill as well as an immaculate defensive ability.

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However, can he guide the Team USA roster to the coveted gold medal?

What is Reaves’ ceiling on Team USA’s roster?

Austin Reaves put up a scintillating display of basketball brilliance on his way to the iconic stat line. He also made several heads turn with his consistency in the tournament so far. However, his team is stacked with talent that is no less than his and have all shown out similarly. So how important is Reaves to the Team USA roster?

Although a lot of Team USA players had incredible moments in the tournament so far, Reaves has been the most consistent of all. The 25-year-old has displayed phenomenal consistency, currently averaging an impressive 11.7 PPG and along with 4.3 APG. In fact, the Lakers shooting guard also received more praise from The King for his efforts in the tournament.

Given his consistency and potential, Reaves will play a pivotal role in Team USA’s quest for a gold medal. He has come off the bench as one of the primary options and has guided the second unit brilliantly. Team USA could use this ability more than ever as they enter the knockout stages of the tournament.

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