After two seasons at Wichita State, former Cedar Ridge standout Austin Reaves is leaving, but he’s not sure where he’s going.
Wichita State has been one of the premier mid-major programs in the country under Gregg Marshall’s tutelage the last few years and a consistent NCAA Tournament team.
Now Reaves has decided to take his talents elsewhere, and we had the chance to talk to him about his decision.
Q: Why are you leaving Wichita State?
Reaves: I just felt it was time to move on. I loved my time in Wichita and I can’t thank Coach Marshall and his staff enough for the opportunity to play for one of the best programs and for one of the greatest fan bases in sports. I wish nothing but the best for the University, the basketball program and the fans moving forward!
Q: When did you know it was time to leave?
Reaves: It built over time. I was just focused on winning with my teammates and playing as long as we could. But when the season came to an end I talked with family and support system and decided it was time to move on.
Q: Who was the first school to contact you?
Reaves: Either Oklahoma or Northern Iowa.
Q: Any pressure to come back to Arkansas or Arkansas State?
Reaves: No. I’m listening to everyone. But fit and my personal happiness playing basketball is my priority. The state of Arkansas is my home and I hope to represent Arkansas and make people proud wherever I go.
Q: How many visits will you take?
Reaves: I’m not sure. I will take as many as I need to find the right place for me.
Q: Who are your top choices as of now?
Reaves: Oklahoma, Northern Iowa, Michigan, Purdue, Indiana, Iowa State, Kansas State and Texas Tech.
Q: Who is advising you in this process?
Reaves: My mom and dad, my brother Spencer and Dillon Buchanan.
Q: Will an in-state school get a visit?
Reaves: As of right now, no. But I am still listening to everyone. I am fortunate to have a lot of great programs interested in me.
Q: You were under-recruited in high school. Does it mean something to you to finally be recruited the way you should have been?
Reaves: I wouldn’t say I was under recruited. Wichita State is one of the best programs in the country. I was thrilled to be a Shocker! But I’m grateful to know that so many great programs see something in me to pursue my abilities.
Last season, Reaves averaged 8.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game for the Shockers with 11 starts.
He will have to sit out the 2018-19 season but he will be eligible for two seasons starting in 2019-20 with whatever he school he ultimately chooses.
