(Photo by Ezra Acayan/Getty Images)
Although some American fans were nervous about Team USA after their loss to Lithuania a few days ago, Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers had nothing but confidence.
That confidence paid off on Tuesday morning, as the Americans beat Italy and earned their spot in the FIBA World Cup semifinals.
Speaking to Ferdz Sports after the game, Reaves said that he did what needed to be done following a weak performance against Lithuania.
He watched film, saw where he struggled, and sought improvements.
But he never lost faith in himself.
“At the end of the day, you never lose confidence in what you do as a basketball player. And anybody that tries to make me lose confidence, good luck to them,” Reaves said.
Confidence is key to Reaves’ game and he has been showing a lot more of it lately.
Although he might not look like the type, he can be quite boisterous and outspoken on the court.
Over the last season, he has been much more expressive and animated as he has found more of a rhythm with the Lakers.
As Reaves has gotten better, so have his Lakers and he is now a crucial part of that team’s lineup.
He has carried that confidence into the World Cup and has become one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
Since the start of his career, he has faced adversity and doubters who didn’t expect much from him.
But he seems to enjoy silencing critics and repeatedly proving himself.
Reaves’ confidence has propelled him to a starting spot with the Lakers and now an important role within Team USA.
The post Austin Reaves Shares His Thoughts After Bounce-Back Game Against Italy appeared first on The Cold Wire.