Getty

Nicole Wilkett watches during a practice round prior to The Open Championship at St Andrews in Scotland in 2022.

Long before Austin Reaves became one of the Los Angeles Lakers’ most popular players, basketball was already deeply embedded in the Reaves family.

Nicole Wilkett helped shape Austin’s basketball journey from an early age alongside his father, Brian Reaves, as the future Lakers guard grew up in Newark, Arkansas.

As Austin’s profile has continued rising in Los Angeles, many NBA fans have become increasingly curious about the family behind the breakout guard.

Here’s what to know about Austin Reaves’ mother, Nicole Wilkett.

Nicole Wilkett Played College Basketball at Arkansas State

Nicole Wilkett played college basketball at Arkansas State, where she developed into a standout player.

Austin’s father, Brian Reaves, also played basketball at Arkansas State, making the sport a major part of the family long before Austin reached the NBA.

Austin has previously spoken about growing up in a highly competitive basketball household in rural Arkansas.

Austin Reaves Comes From a Deep Basketball Family

Basketball success runs throughout the Reaves family.

Austin’s older brother, Spencer Reaves, played professionally after starring at Central Missouri, while both parents brought college-level basketball experience into the home.

Fans and analysts have often connected Austin’s toughness, feel for the game, and confidence to the environment he grew up around.

Nicole Wilkett Has Supported Austin Throughout His Rise

Nicole Wilkett has remained a consistent presence throughout Austin’s basketball journey, from his high school days in Arkansas to his rise with the Lakers.

As Austin’s popularity exploded in Los Angeles, fans also began taking notice of the close relationship he shares with his family.

Austin has repeatedly credited his parents for the sacrifices and support that helped him reach the NBA.

Austin Reaves Became One of the Lakers’ Biggest Success Stories

After going undrafted in 2021, Reaves signed with the Lakers and quickly developed into one of the franchise’s biggest surprises.

He earned a reputation in Los Angeles for his fearless play, late-game confidence, and ability to deliver in big moments alongside stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

That rise also brought increased public attention to the people closest to him, including his mother Nicole Wilkett.

The Reaves Family Has Remained Close Through Austin’s NBA Fame

Despite Austin’s growing profile, the Reaves family has largely maintained a relatively private life away from the spotlight.

Fans occasionally get glimpses of the family dynamic during Lakers games, interviews, and major NBA moments.

Austin has consistently pointed back to his upbringing and support system when discussing his NBA journey.