JUST IN: Austin Reaves to Compete in the American Century Championship on the Green…..

The Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason is in full swing, with players enjoying their extended vacations before the 2024-25 season begins.

Austin Reaves is a pivotal figure this offseason, potentially serving as a key trade asset in a blockbuster deal or being recognized by the Lakers as a core player alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. After being benched midway through the 2023-24 season, Reaves returned to the starting lineup and played a crucial role in the team’s second-half surge to secure a playoff spot.

Reaves was a dependable contributor during the Play-In Tournament and the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs, although the Lakers were eliminated in five games by the Denver Nuggets. Despite the early exit, Reaves demonstrated his ability to perform on the biggest stage.

With the Lakers still a month away from the 2024 NBA Draft and free agency, Reaves is enjoying his free time by playing golf. He is set to compete in the American Century Championship later this summer, according to Michael Corvo of ClutchPoints:

“I don’t think I’m playing in any more Korn Ferry qualifiers. I’m playing (the Good Good Midwest Open) in Indiana with Garrett Clark. It’s going to be a lot of fun. And then I’m playing in the American Century. The tournament that (Stephen Curry) won last year.”

Earlier this offseason, Reaves participated in the Korn Ferry Tour Qualifier, performing well in his first competitive golf tournament. He aims to build on that success at the American Century Championship, which takes place in Lake Tahoe from July 12-14. Reaves hopes to follow in Steph Curry’s footsteps, who won the tournament last year.

Reaves, an avid golfer, is confident in his game and has even expressed confidence in competing against Curry. Golf has provided Reaves with additional opportunities to boost his popularity and brand, and it will be exciting to watch him compete later this summer.

The tournament field will vie for $750,000 in prize money, with a $150,000 first prize. The event has raised nearly $8 million for charities, including the Stowers Institute for Medical Research.

While the Lakers should explore all trade options, Reaves remains their most valuable trade asset. However, the organization reportedly remains highly supportive of Reaves and prefers to keep him out of any trade deals.