Austin Rivers is a prominent American professional basketball player known for his versatility as a shooting guard and point guard. He began his professional journey in the NBA after being selected as the 10th overall pick by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2012 NBA Draft. During his three seasons with the Hornets, Rivers showcased his scoring ability and playmaking skills, averaging 6.2 points per game and contributing significantly to the team’s offensive strategies.
In 2015, Rivers was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he truly began to shine. His tenure with the Clippers was marked by impressive performances, including a career-high 20.0 points per game during the 2016-2017 season. Rivers played a crucial role in the Clippers’ playoff runs, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure and solidifying his reputation as a clutch player.
After a brief stint with the Washington Wizards in 2018, Rivers joined the Houston Rockets, where he continued to make an impact. His experience and leadership were invaluable to the Rockets, particularly during the 2019 playoffs, where he contributed to the team’s deep postseason run. Rivers’ adaptability allowed him to thrive in various roles, further enhancing his skill set.
Following his time with the Rockets, Rivers played for the New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, and Minnesota Timberwolves, accumulating over 5,900 points in his NBA career. Now transitioning into a sports analyst role for ESPN, Rivers continues to share his basketball insights, inspiring the next generation of players with his extensive knowledge and experience in the game.