Antonio Reeves works out with the Utah Jazz

On3 imageby:Nick Roush05/26/23

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Antonio Reeves is contemplating his next move, all while working out for potential future employers.

The former top-scorer for Illinois State that spent one season as a Kentucky sharpshooter (14.4 points per game, 40% from three) has multiple options he could potentially pursue. If you gave him truth serum, the NBA would probably be his top choice if he can convince a team to call his name in the NBA Draft.

Even though he did not get invited to the NBA Combine, this week Antonio Reeves did get a couple of invitations to work out for NBA teams. He first trained with the Milwaukee Bucks. Friday afternoon he shared an image on Instagram of the Utah Jazz practice jersey he rocked during a pre-draft workout.

Antonio Reeves Momentum Swing

In addition to the NBA option, Antonio Reeves could return for another year at Kentucky. That was once the most likely option, but Jack Pilgrim shared on Wednesday that is no longer the case.

“Reeves has shifted to the wildcard category, if not likely to leave,” Pilgrim said. “It’s a change of tune the school wasn’t anticipating, believing from the beginning the standout scorer would test the waters for feedback from NBA teams before ultimately announcing a return. Now, the grad transfer route is being explored, a path that could be opened by finishing his degree this summer to qualify for immediate eligibility elsewhere.

“Keeping his name in the draft hasn’t been ruled out, but a return to college is no longer Kentucky or bust. Why? It comes down to NIL and role. There is concern that the freedom Reeves was able to play with last year won’t be the same with the incoming freshmen taking the majority of touches and spotlight. He wants to expand his role and brand in his final season of eligibility, not take a step back in favor of 18-year-olds. If he’s not going to keep his name in the draft or pursue other pro opportunities now, he wants to make sure a return to college is worth his time as a soon-to-be 23-year-old.”

Antonio Reeves and two other Kentucky Wildcats, Oscar Tshiebwe and Chris Livingston, have until midnight on May 31 to withdraw from NBA Draft consideration or return to the college ranks. Time is ticking.

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