Austin Reaves’ nicknames: Looking at the story behind “Hillbilly Kobe” and “AR-15”

Austin Reaves has become a fan favorite with the LA Lakers fanbase. His contributions have earned him two nicknames.

Reaves has shown certain poise on the court, which is not seen in younger players, especially ones that go undrafted. The sophomore has been likened to Kobe Bryant and a semi-automatic rifle.

The origin of "Hillbilly Kobe" dates back to his college years at the University of Oklahoma. Reaves revealed that a graduate assistant first called him that before it stuck and followed him to the NBA:

"He came up to me one day and was like, ‘I figured it out.’ I was like, ‘What are you even talking about?’ He was like, ‘HBK.’ I was like, ‘What?’ He was like, ‘Hillbilly Kobe.’ Then, one of the teammates heard it and it stuck. For three years, that’s what they said around just Oklahoma and then I guess people caught wind of it elsewhere. I mean, it is what it is. I just move forward from it."

The second nickname is a combination of his name and jersey number (AR-15). The same idea has been used for several other players in the league.

However, Reaves has expressed his disapproval of both nicknames. Although it is an honor to be likened to one of the greatest players in league history, he does not feel the timing is right.

Regarding "AR-15," Reaves does not want his brand to be likened to a weapon, especially one that has been used in several mass shootings in the US. In an interview with ESPN, he said:

"I don't condone any gun violence that happens around our country. But you can't really control what [nickname] people give you. I mean, I didn't come out and say my name was that. There's been others, like the 'Hillbilly Kobe,' that probably aren't the best thing in the situation that's going on, with Kobe's passing."

Nonetheless, Reaves is confident the Lakers fans will come up with something more suitable. As of right now, fans are still stuck on "Hillbilly Kobe."

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NBA stars not thrilled with Austin Reaves rejecting nicknames

Austin Reaves of the LA Lakers steals the ball from Paul Reed of the Philadelphia 76ers.

Most NBA players have wholeheartedly accepted the nicknames fans have given them because it has more often than not come from a good place. That is why Reaves' refusal to embrace both names came as a shocker.

Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green was irate that Reaves was refusing to use the nicknames bestowed on him by fans. Although he highlighted that he understood the youngster's point, he did not think he was right to do so.

On the "Draymond Green Show," he said:

"Brother, you have not done enough in your career to be trying to shed nicknames that people gave you. I was really blown away when he said that. Brother, you should take those nicknames and try to run with them. I definitely understand the thinking behind the AR-15 one. But I don't think anyone hearing the words 'AR-15' on the basketball court and thinking weapons."

Kyle Kuzma, who was being interviewed, agreed with Green, saying Reaves should embrace "Hillbilly Kobe."

Austin Reaves is having an incredible campaign this season. He has improved his rookie numbers, averaging 11.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 52.5% from the field.

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