Penn State Basketball: Josh Reaves continues his journey with the Mavericks

Penn State basketball star Josh Reaves didn’t hear his name get called at the 2019 NBA Draft, but he found his new team shortly after.

The 2019 NBA Draft came and went on Thursday night as they wrapped up another successful event. For the Penn State basketball program, the initial outcome wasn’t as thrilling. With senior guard, Josh Reaves in the player pool, those in Happy Valley expected him to get called up at some point.

Although Reaves wasn’t projected to go so high, there was still hope out there for him to go at some point in the second round. After 60 picks, the NBA Draft wrapped up, and Reaves was left without a team. He didn’t get drafted, but the next step for him was to ink a deal with a team that’s interested.

So the Dallas Mavericks came calling, and Reaves found his new home for the next part of his basketball journey. After signing a two-way deal early on Friday morning, Reaves is officially out of Penn State, and in with the Dallas Mavericks.

Penn State’s head coach Pat Chambers was especially excited for the one and only starter who won’t return to the lineup next season. “There has never been any question in my mind that Josh could play at the professional level, he has the athleticism, skills, and mindset to be a contributor for any team and have a long and prosperous career. We’re extremely proud of him.”

https://twitter.com/PennStateMBB/status/1142059641918111744

"“I went into all my workouts with the mentality of putting my head down and showcasing my abilities, athletically and how I developed over time. I know it’s not the end of the journey; I know the hard work is not going to stop by any means. This is a step in the right direction. I’m really blessed to have this opportunity and going to try to make the most of it.”"

Despite going through both rounds undrafted, the Mavericks should be excited to see what Reaves can offer on the floor. He already comes into the NBA with a skillset to be potentially elite on defense right off the bat.  Although he’s not the sharpest shooter, Reaves can put on a show with his showstopping dunks when it comes to the offensive side of his game. It’s going to take a lot of hard work to develop his game at the next level further, but the former Penn State guard is up for the challenge.