Reaves Family Genealogy & History

Austin Tyler Reaves, born May 29, 1998, is a standout American basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Known for his impressive college career with Wichita State Shockers and Oklahoma Sooners, Reaves became notable for his scoring ability and clutch performances. Joining the Lakers as an undrafted free agent, he quickly made an impact, earning nicknames like "Hillbilly Kobe" for his skills. His career highlights include a triple-double against the Denver Nuggets and leading the Lakers to victory in the NBA In-Season Tournament. Reaves re-signed with the Lakers in 2023 for four years, solidifying his position as a key player.

Ryan Reaves, born January 20, 1987, is a distinguished Canadian professional ice hockey right winger currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL. Throughout his career, Reaves has showcased his skills with notable teams including the Minnesota Wild, St. Louis Blues, Pittsburgh Penguins, Vegas Golden Knights, and New York Rangers. Known for his role as an enforcer, Reaves has contributed significantly to his teams, notably scoring the series-winning goal for the Golden Knights in the 2018 Stanley Cup Finals qualification. His professional journey highlights his resilience and dedication, with crucial contracts and trades marking his career trajectory.

Ryan Reaves is the son of Willard Reaves, a former gridiron football player who played in both the Canadian Football League (CFL) and the National Football League (NFL). This athletic lineage underscores a family deeply rooted in professional sports, influencing Ryan’s early engagement with hockey and football.

Willard Sheldon Reaves, born on August 17, 1959, is a distinguished former gridiron football running back and politician known for his impactful sports and political careers. As a key player for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the CFL, Reaves led the league in rushing three times and was a three-time CFL All-Star. His remarkable 1984 season earned him the CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award and contributed to the Blue Bombers' Grey Cup victory. Transitioning to politics, Reaves served as the deputy leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party and ran for the Fort Whyte division in 2022 and 2023.

Willard Reaves is the great-great-grandson of Bass Reeves, a historic figure who was the first black lawman west of the Mississippi River and a notable U.S. deputy marshal. This illustrious heritage links Reaves to a legacy of pioneering law enforcement, further highlighted by the 2023 TV series "Lawmen: Bass Reeves," which delves into his ancestor's life and career.

Jordan Reaves, born on January 25, 1990, is a Canadian professional football defensive lineman known for his time in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Edmonton Elks. Reaves transitioned from playing basketball with the Brandon Bobcats to football, where he showcased his versatility by playing various roles, including defensive back and defensive lineman. His career highlights include re-signing with the Roughriders in 2018 and playing 11 regular-season games with the Elks in 2023, recording seven special teams tackles. Keywords: Jordan Reaves, Canadian Football League, Saskatchewan Roughriders, Edmonton Elks, Brandon Bobcats.

Jordan Reaves is the youngest son of former Winnipeg Blue Bomber running back Willard Reaves, a member of the 72nd Grey Cup winning team. He is also the younger brother of Ryan Reaves, a professional hockey player with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Notably, Jordan is the great-great-great-grandson of Bass Reeves, the first black U.S. deputy marshal west of the Mississippi River, whose life is featured in the 2023 TV series "Lawmen: Bass Reeves."