Former University of Kentucky basketball standout Antonio Reeves has officially signed with the Charlotte Hornets, making another stride in his professional career. For Kentucky basketball fans, watching former Wildcats find their footing in the NBA is always an exciting and prideful experience. Antonio Reeves, a beloved figure during his time in Lexington, is the latest player from the storied Kentucky program to continue his basketball journey at the professional level.
Reeves has agreed to a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets, as reported by NBA insider Shams Charania. This move places him among the three players currently holding two-way contracts with the Hornets, alongside KJ Simpson and Drew Peterson. With this agreement, Reeves has secured the final two-way roster slot, giving him an opportunity to split time between the Hornets and their G League affiliate.
Before landing in Charlotte, Reeves spent his rookie season with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he showcased a promising skill set and proved his value on the court. In 44 games with the Pelicans, he averaged 6.9 points per game—a solid contribution for a first-year player in the league. His performance demonstrated the poise, shooting ability, and basketball IQ that made him a fan favorite during his college years at Kentucky.
Reeves’ successful rookie campaign, while perhaps flying under the radar on the national level, was no surprise to those who followed his collegiate career. At Kentucky, Reeves was known for his clutch shooting, smooth scoring ability, and steady demeanor. He consistently delivered in high-pressure moments and earned the admiration of both coaches and fans. His transition to the professional game has been relatively smooth, which is a testament to his work ethic and readiness for the next level.
Now with the Hornets, Reeves joins a franchise that appears to be strategically looking to add cost-effective talent with upside. Jeff Peterson, Charlotte’s president of basketball operations, seems to be targeting players who can make meaningful contributions without demanding massive salaries. Two-way contracts offer teams the flexibility to develop young talent while minimizing financial risk, and Reeves fits that mold perfectly.
For Reeves, this move presents a golden opportunity. The Hornets are a team in transition, and there is room for emerging players to carve out roles if they prove themselves. If he can continue to show consistency in scoring, defend well, and adapt to the Hornets’ system, he could potentially earn a standard NBA contract down the line. His college track record and respectable rookie numbers suggest he’s more than capable of rising to the occasion.
The Kentucky basketball program, under head coach John Calipari, has long been known as a pipeline to the NBA, regularly producing players who go on to succeed at the highest level. Antonio Reeves is now part of that ongoing legacy. For Big Blue Nation, seeing Reeves take the next step with the Hornets only adds to the pride and excitement of watching former Wildcats thrive beyond the college hardwood.
In summary, Antonio Reeves’ signing with the Charlotte Hornets is both a significant personal milestone and another example of Kentucky’s impact on professional basketball. With his impressive rookie season behind him and a new opportunity in Charlotte ahead, Reeves will look to continue proving his value and expanding his role in the NBA. Kentucky fans—and now Hornets fans—will be watching closely to see how his story unfolds.
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