The Los Angeles Lakers have seen a ton of NBA greats move through their ranks. Over the years, some of the greatest players and biggest names have put on the purple and gold. Many have argued over their favorite Lakers, but seldom does the debate cease to exist.

But among the many prestigious names that have captured the heart of the Lakers’ faithful, one has stood out. From the current roster, a young man from Arkansas has captivated LA and one young fan, the late Kobe Bryant‘s nephew.

The Lakers want ‘Hillbilly Kobe’

From a relative nobody to an undrafted kid with potential, Austin Reaves was a minor piece in the grand Lakers scheme. However, from undrafted to undeniable, his success story is an inspiration.

Over the course of the 2022-2023 season, especially the playoffs, Reaves cemented himself as a bona fide starter. He was, without question, the third-best player on a contending LA team.

Additionally, he’s swept the entire fanbase along too. Even though names like Kyrie Irving, long-linked to the franchise, were available in free agency, Lakers land craved for Reaves. Moreover, this love has reached out to the Lakers family as well, including the late Kobe Bryant’s extended family.

For his birthday, Kobe Bryant’s sister had a dilemma. Her son was a huge fan of Reaves, and a message from the Lakers #15 would mean the world to him.

Thankfully, ‘Hillbilly Kobe’ could come through for his young fan. He recorded a video of himself wishing the young Bryant on his birthday. It reduced the young fan to tears in a heartwarming moment.

For AR, it’s been a busy summer, including an appearance on the All The Smoke podcast with Matt Barnes. He revealed how he found out about it through Kobe’s sister. “It’s the playoffs, I know you’re focused, but Kobe’s nephew loves you,” which led to Reaves’ heartwarming act.

The appearance on the podcast saw Reaves reveal a few more things, too.

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Austin Reaves highlights his favorite LeBron James trait

Over the last few months, Reaves has become a household name. Whether it was playoff exploits or dating rumors, HBK has been a constant in the news cycle. Weeks after signing a $56 million contract to stay with the Lakers, Reaves joined the All The Smoke podcast for a quick chat.

Among the men in the discussion was Lakers legend LeBron James. For Reaves, it was LeBron’s personality that won him over. To go on for 20 years straight in a demanding sport, you need a healthy mindset, and according to Reaves, that’s what James brings to the table.

For Austin, it has been a long journey. From betting on himself to make it to the league, to being a solid part of it, Reaves is carving out a legacy like no other. What’s more, his latest act will bolster the Lakers fanbase behind the young stalwart.

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