Austin Reaves, the rising star of the Los Angeles Lakers, has been making waves on the court with his impressive performances.
But off the court, fans have been curious about his personal life, particularly his romantic relationship. So, who does Austin Reaves date? The answer is Jenna Barber, his long-time girlfriend and high school sweetheart.
Austin Reaves and Jenna Barber: A Love Story That Began in High School
Austin Reaves and Jenna Barber have been dating since 2014, making their relationship nearly a decade long. The couple first met at Cedar Ridge High School in Newark, Arkansas, where they both grew up. Their love story began in their teenage years and has continued to flourish despite the challenges of long-distance relationships and Reaves’ rising NBA career.
Who is Jenna Barber?
Jenna Barber was born on December 20, 2000, making her 23 years old as of 2023. She hails from Newark, Arkansas, the same hometown as Austin Reaves. Barber comes from a close-knit family and has two sisters: a twin sister named Jordan Wheeler, who works as a speech-language pathologist assistant, and a younger sister named Jaden Barber.
Educational Background and Career Aspirations
After graduating from Cedar Ridge High School, Jenna Barber pursued higher education with dedication:
- She attended the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville, earning an associate’s degree in Science in 2020.
- Barber then enrolled at the University of Arkansas, where she graduated in December 2022.
- Currently, she is furthering her education at Logan College of Chiropractic, showcasing her ambition in the healthcare field.
During her college years, Barber was also a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, indicating her involvement in campus life and community activities.
Supporting Austin Reaves’ Basketball Career
Throughout Austin Reaves’ journey from college basketball to the NBA, Jenna Barber has been a constant source of support. Her dedication to cheering on Reaves is evident in her social media posts and attendance at games:
- Barber frequently attends Lakers games at the Crypto.com Arena.
- She has shared numerous photos of herself supporting Reaves from the stands.
- In January 2023, she posted on social media, expressing her love for Lakers basketball and specifically mentioning Reaves’ jersey number: “some of my favorite things: lakers basketball, traveling, good company.
A Private Relationship in the Public Eye
Despite being in a relationship with an NBA player, Jenna Barber maintains a relatively low profile. The couple has managed to keep their personal life private, with Reaves rarely discussing his relationship in public. However, Barber’s social media presence, particularly on Facebook, offers glimpses into their life together.
Key Facts About Their Relationship
- Dating since: 2014
- Relationship duration: Approximately 9 years
- Current status: Not married or engaged
- Children: None
Overcoming Long-Distance Challenges
The couple’s relationship has endured several periods of long-distance separation:
- When Reaves moved to Wichita State for college basketball
- During his transfer to Oklahoma to play for the Sooners
- After Reaves signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021
Despite these challenges, Barber has made efforts to attend Reaves’ games and support his career, even traveling to events like the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
The Taylor Swift Rumor: A Test of Their Relationship
In September 2023, a false rumor circulated that Austin Reaves was dating pop superstar Taylor Swift. This rumor, which went viral on social media, was quickly debunked by Reaves himself. The incident highlighted the strength of Reaves and Barber’s relationship, as both handled the situation with grace and humor.
Reaves addressed the rumor on the “All The Smoke” podcast, stating:
“I have never met her, never talked to her. All bulls–t. They said we were in a bar in Arkansas. That’s crazy. It’s not true.”
Looking to the Future
As Austin Reaves continues to make a name for himself in the NBA, his relationship with Jenna Barber remains a steady constant in his life. While they are not yet engaged or married, their long-term commitment and shared history suggest a strong foundation for the future.
Takeaways
To sum up, who does Austin Reaves date? The answer is Jenna Barber, his girlfriend of nearly a decade. Their enduring relationship began in high school and has thrived through the challenges of distance and fame.
As fans admire Reaves’ skills on the court, many also celebrate the love story he shares with Jenna off the court—a testament to loyalty and mutual support amidst a demanding professional journey.
