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Austin Rivers
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Austin James Rivers (born August 1, 1992) is an American former professional basketball player who is currently a sports analyst for ESPN and NBC Sports. The son of basketball coach and former player Doc Rivers, he played for 11 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA). In the 2012 NBA draft, Rivers was selected with the 10th overall pick by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans), playing three seasons there before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. After three years with the Clippers, he was traded to the Washington Wizards in June 2018. In December of the same year, he joined the Houston Rockets. He also played in the NBA for the New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Key Information
Rivers led Winter Park High School to back-to-back Florida 6A state championships in 2010 and 2011. He also played in the 2011 Nike Hoop Summit for Team USA, and was a McDonald's All-American. He was one of the top rated high school basketball players in the class of 2011, being rated as high as No. 1 by Rivals.com. In October 2010, Rivers committed to Duke University.[1]
On January 16, 2015, Rivers became the first player in NBA history to play for his father, coach Doc Rivers, then-head coach of the Clippers.
High school career
[edit]In 2010, Rivers led Winter Park High School to the school's first state title in a 76–57 win against Dr. Phillips High School in the 6A state championship. Rivers scored 23 points in the game.[2] In June 2010, Rivers was a part of the gold medal-winning team at the FIBA Americas U18 Championship where he set a Team USA record for an U18 event with 35 points against Canada.[3] On August 5, 2010, Rivers was named to the fifth annual Boost Mobile Elite 24 game,[4] where he was named co-MVP after he had 25 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists.[5]
On September 30, 2010, Rivers committed to Duke University. His commitment was widely covered by ESPN and various other sports networks given his status as the Class of 2011's top recruit.[6] He officially signed with the program on November 16, 2010.[7]
On March 5, 2011, Rivers led Winter Park to back to back Florida 6A state championships with a 52–44 victory over Dr. Phillips High School, in which he had 25 points, 11 rebounds and 4 steals.[8] Rivers was named the 2011 Naismith Prep Player of the Year on March 10, 2011.[9] He was also an All-American and All-State honoree, and played in the 2011 Nike Hoop Summit for Team USA.
| Name | Hometown | School | Height | Weight | Commit date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin Rivers SG[10] |
Winter Park, Florida | Winter Park High | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) | 175 lb (79 kg) | Sep 30, 2010 | |
| Recruit ratings: Scout: | ||||||
| Overall recruit ranking: Scout: 1 (SG); 3 (national); 2 (school) Rivals: 1 (SG); 1 (national) ESPN: 3 (national) | ||||||
Sources:
| ||||||
College career
[edit]
As a freshman, Rivers played in Duke's exhibition games in China and Dubai during an international tour in August 2011. In the first game against the China men's national basketball team, Rivers scored 18 points on 8–19 shooting and led Duke to a 77–64 victory. In the second game (also against the Chinese national team), Rivers scored 12 points in a 78–66 victory, making several dunks during the first half. In the final game played in Beijing, Rivers chipped in 11 points as Duke topped the Chinese, 93–78.[11] In his team's 86–66 victory over the Dubai national team, he scored 16 points, including 10 in the second quarter, on an array of impressive drives.
On February 8, 2012, his three-point basket as time expired allowed Duke to overcome an 82–72 deficit with two minutes to play in an 85–84 victory over the University of North Carolina.[12] The victory ended North Carolina's 31-game winning streak at the Dean Smith Center.[13]
On March 16, 2012, Rivers' college career ended in the "Round of 64" of the NCAA tournament, when Duke lost to Lehigh University. Rivers shot 5-of-14 from the field, while playing 34 minutes. Lehigh led for most of the game, earning their first NCAA Tournament victory.[14]
On March 26, 2012, Rivers declared for the NBA draft, foregoing his final three years of college eligibility.[15]
Professional career
[edit]New Orleans Hornets / Pelicans (2012–2015)
[edit]
Rivers was selected by the New Orleans Hornets with the 10th overall pick the 2012 NBA draft. Rivers chose to wear the #25 jersey, the same number his father wore when he was in the NBA. The night before the draft, Rivers said, "I want to be like my dad, only better." Joining him as a rookie on the Hornets was Anthony Davis, the first overall pick of the draft. On July 24, 2012, Rivers signed his rookie scale contract with the Hornets.[16] Three days later, Rivers underwent successful surgery to clean up bone spurs in his right ankle.[17]
On October 31, 2012, Rivers made his NBA debut in the Hornets' season opener against the San Antonio Spurs. In 24 minutes as a starter, he scored 7 points on 1-of-9 shooting in a 99–95 loss.[18] On December 14, he scored a then career-high 27 points in a 113–102 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.[19] On March 6, 2013, he broke his hand and subsequently required surgery that forced him to miss the remainder of the season.[20] For his rookie season, he averaged 6.2 points on 37% shooting from the field and 33% from three-point range. In April 2013, the Hornets changed their name to the Pelicans.
On October 16, 2013, the Pelicans exercised their third-year team option on Rivers' rookie scale contract, extending the contract through the 2014–15 season.[21] On April 12, 2014, Rivers recorded season highs in points and rebounds with 20 and 10, respectively, in the Pelicans' 111–104 loss to the Houston Rockets.[22]
On October 24, 2014, the Pelicans declined to exercise their fourth-year team option on Rivers' rookie scale contract, thereby not extending the contract through the 2015–16 season.[23][24] On December 20, 2014, he scored a season-high 21 points in a 114–88 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.[25]
Los Angeles Clippers (2015–2018)
[edit]
On January 12, 2015, Rivers was traded to the Boston Celtics in a three-team trade involving the Pelicans and the Memphis Grizzlies.[26] Three days later, he joined his father on the Los Angeles Clippers after he was traded in a three-team trade involving the Celtics and the Phoenix Suns.[27] On January 16, Rivers made his debut for the Clippers and became the first son to play for his father in an NBA game.[28] On February 21, Rivers scored a then-career-high 28 points in a 129–98 win over the Sacramento Kings.[29] On May 8, he scored a playoff career-high 25 points in the Clippers' 124–99 victory that gave them a 2–1 lead in the Western Conference semi-finals against the Houston Rockets.[30]
On July 13, 2015, Rivers re-signed with the Clippers.[31] On February 6, 2016, he was ruled out for four to six weeks with a broken left hand.[32] On March 31, he scored a career-high 32 points in a 119–117 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.[33] On April 29, Rivers recorded 21 points and eight assists against the Portland Trail Blazers in game 6 of their first-round playoff series. However, with a 106–103 loss, the Clippers were eliminated from the playoffs. In the game, Rivers required 11 stitches above his left eye from a collision in the first quarter.[34]
On July 8, 2016, Rivers again re-signed with the Clippers.[35] On December 14, 2016, he scored a season-high 25 points on 7-of-10 from three-point range and 9-of-12 from the field in a 113–108 win over the Orlando Magic.[36] On January 4, 2017, he set a new season high with 28 points in a 115–106 win over the Memphis Grizzlies.[37] He averaged career highs of 12.0 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists during the 2016–17 regular season, but due to a strained left hamstring, Rivers missed the last six games of the regular season and the first four games of the playoffs before returning in game 5 of the Clippers' first-round playoff series against the Utah Jazz.[38]
On December 3, 2017, Rivers scored a season-high 30 points in a 112–106 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.[39] On December 22, 2017, he scored 30 of his career-high 36 points in the second half of the Clippers' 128–118 win over the Houston Rockets.[40] The following night, he set a new career high with 38 points in a 115–112 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.[41] Rivers missed 18 games between late December and early February with a heel bruise.[42][43]
Washington Wizards (2018)
[edit]On June 26, 2018, Rivers was traded to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Marcin Gortat.[44][45] On December 17, 2018, Rivers was traded with Kelly Oubre Jr. to the Phoenix Suns for Trevor Ariza.[46] Rivers was waived by the Suns the following day.[47]
Houston Rockets (2018–2020)
[edit]
On December 24, 2018, Rivers signed with the Houston Rockets.[48] On January 5, 2019, he scored a season-high 21 points in a 110–101 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.[49] On April 7, in a 149–113 blowout win against the Phoenix Suns, Rivers made the 27th three-pointer of the game with 1:09 left on the clock in the fourth quarter, beating the Rockets' own previous record of most made threes by one team in a game (26).[50][51] He appeared in 47 games while averaging 8.7 points, 2.3 assists and 1.9 rebounds in 28.6 minutes per game. The Rockets won 72% of their games after signing Rivers. He started 13 straight games as a Rocket from December 31 through January 25, averaging 11.6 points, 3.8 assists and 2.7 rebounds in 38.1 minutes per game. Houston was 15–5 when Rivers scored in double figures and 9–1 when he recorded at least four assists. He also had nearly as many steals (29) as turnovers (32) with the Rockets.[52] On August 9, 2020, Rivers scored a career-high 41 points off the bench and the Rockets used a big third quarter to pull away and cruise to a 129–112 victory over the Sacramento Kings in the Orlando bubble. Rivers made six 3-pointers as Houston improved to 4–1 at Disney on a night the Rockets played a second straight game without Russell Westbrook, who had a bruised right quadriceps.[53]
New York Knicks (2020–2021)
[edit]On November 27, 2020, Rivers was acquired by the New York Knicks via a sign-and-trade deal.[54] On March 25, 2021, Rivers was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a three team trade[55] and was waived three days later.[56]
Denver Nuggets (2021–2022)
[edit]On April 20, 2021, the Denver Nuggets signed Rivers to a 10-day contract[57] following a season ending injury sustained by Jamal Murray.[58] Ten days later, he was signed for the rest of the season.[59]
On September 1, 2021, Rivers re-signed with the Nuggets.[60]
Minnesota Timberwolves (2022–2023)
[edit]On July 14, 2022, Rivers signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves.[61] On February 4, 2023, Rivers was suspended by the NBA for three games without pay due to his role in an altercation during a game against the Orlando Magic the day before. During the altercation, Rivers threw punches at Magic center Mo Bamba.[62]
Broadcasting career
[edit]On October 23, 2023, it was announced that Rivers was hired by ESPN as an NBA analyst.[63]
Rivers joined NBC Sports for its college basketball and NBA coverage in 2025.[64][65]
Career statistics
[edit]| GP | Games played | GS | Games started | MPG | Minutes per game |
| FG% | Field goal percentage | 3P% | 3-point field goal percentage | FT% | Free throw percentage |
| RPG | Rebounds per game | APG | Assists per game | SPG | Steals per game |
| BPG | Blocks per game | PPG | Points per game | Bold | Career high |
NBA
[edit]Regular season
[edit]| Year | Team | GP | GS | MPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012–13 | New Orleans | 61 | 26 | 23.2 | .372 | .326 | .546 | 1.8 | 2.1 | .4 | .1 | 6.2 |
| 2013–14 | New Orleans | 69 | 4 | 19.4 | .405 | .364 | .636 | 1.9 | 2.3 | .7 | .1 | 7.7 |
| 2014–15 | New Orleans | 35 | 3 | 22.1 | .387 | .280 | .746 | 1.9 | 2.5 | .5 | .2 | 6.8 |
| L.A. Clippers | 41 | 2 | 19.3 | .427 | .309 | .582 | 2.0 | 1.7 | .7 | .2 | 7.1 | |
| 2015–16 | L.A. Clippers | 67 | 7 | 21.9 | .438 | .335 | .681 | 1.9 | 1.5 | .7 | .1 | 8.9 |
| 2016–17 | L.A. Clippers | 74 | 29 | 27.8 | .442 | .371 | .691 | 2.2 | 2.8 | .7 | .1 | 12.0 |
| 2017–18 | L.A. Clippers | 61 | 59 | 33.7 | .424 | .378 | .642 | 2.4 | 4.0 | 1.2 | .3 | 15.1 |
| 2018–19 | Washington | 29 | 2 | 23.6 | .392 | .311 | .543 | 2.4 | 2.0 | .6 | .3 | 7.2 |
| Houston | 47 | 13 | 28.6 | .413 | .321 | .510 | 1.9 | 2.3 | .6 | .3 | 8.7 | |
| 2019–20 | Houston | 68 | 4 | 23.4 | .421 | .356 | .703 | 2.6 | 1.7 | .7 | .1 | 8.8 |
| 2020–21 | New York | 21 | 2 | 21.0 | .430 | .364 | .714 | 2.2 | 2.0 | .6 | .0 | 7.3 |
| Denver | 15 | 5 | 26.9 | .418 | .375 | .706 | 2.3 | 2.6 | 1.2 | .1 | 8.7 | |
| 2021–22 | Denver | 67 | 18 | 22.1 | .417 | .342 | .727 | 1.7 | 1.3 | .8 | .1 | 6.0 |
| 2022–23 | Minnesota | 52 | 10 | 19.5 | .435 | .350 | .769 | 1.6 | 1.4 | .5 | .1 | 4.9 |
| Career | 707 | 184 | 23.8 | .419 | .349 | .653 | 2.0 | 2.1 | .7 | .2 | 8.5 | |
Playoffs
[edit]| Year | Team | GP | GS | MPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | L.A. Clippers | 14 | 2 | 17.9 | .438 | .371 | .632 | 1.7 | 1.1 | .7 | .3 | 8.4 |
| 2016 | L.A. Clippers | 6 | 2 | 24.0 | .426 | .235 | .667 | 2.7 | 2.7 | .5 | .0 | 10.3 |
| 2017 | L.A. Clippers | 3 | 2 | 30.1 | .346 | .308 | 1.000 | 2.7 | .7 | .3 | .3 | 8.0 |
| 2019 | Houston | 10 | 0 | 21.5 | .435 | .457 | .667 | 2.1 | 1.0 | .5 | .1 | 7.4 |
| 2020 | Houston | 12 | 0 | 17.6 | .311 | .257 | .769 | 2.5 | 1.3 | .6 | .1 | 4.8 |
| 2021 | Denver | 10 | 9 | 30.5 | .435 | .413 | .813 | 1.7 | 2.1 | .2 | .3 | 9.2 |
| 2022 | Denver | 5 | 0 | 21.6 | .444 | .333 | 1.000 | .6 | 1.2 | 1.4 | .2 | 4.2 |
| 2023 | Minnesota | 4 | 0 | 11.6 | .500 | .333 | – | 1.3 | .3 | .3 | .0 | 2.5 |
| Career | 64 | 15 | 21.4 | .412 | .357 | .727 | 1.9 | 1.4 | .6 | .2 | 7.1 | |
College
[edit]| Year | Team | GP | GS | MPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011–12 | Duke | 34 | 33 | 33.2 | .433 | .365 | .658 | 3.4 | 2.1 | 1.0 | .0 | 15.5 |
Personal life
[edit]Rivers was born in Santa Monica, California, the son of Milwaukee Bucks head coach and former player Doc Rivers and Kristen Rivers (née Campion).[66][67] Doc Rivers was a former player who had joined the Los Angeles Clippers the summer of his son's birth. His older brother, Jeremiah, played basketball for Georgetown and Indiana and later joined the Maine Red Claws, while his older sister Callie played volleyball for the University of Florida and is married to his former Duke teammate and current Golden State Warriors player Seth Curry.[68] His younger brother, Spencer, was a guard who played for UC Irvine from 2014 to 2019.[citation needed]
He was named Austin after former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Austin Carr, while his middle name, James, is in honor of his great-uncle Jim Brewer.[69]
His first child, a son with Brittany Hotard, was born in 2018. Rivers' two children with Audreyana Michelle, a son and a daughter, were born in March 2021 and June 2024.[70][71]
References
[edit]- ^ "Austin Rivers, 2011 Shooting Guard, Duke". Rivals.com. Retrieved June 12, 2025.
- ^ "Rivers Leads Winter Park to Title". TheLedger.com. March 6, 2010. Retrieved August 28, 2010.
- ^ "Austin Rivers impressed many with his performance at FIBA tourney". Sports Illustrated. July 2, 2010. Archived from the original on August 24, 2010. Retrieved August 24, 2010.
- ^ "Elite 24 Roster Revealed (First 12)". Slam Online. August 5, 2010. Archived from the original on August 6, 2010. Retrieved August 28, 2010.
- ^ "Austin Rivers is named co-MVP at ESPN all-star event". OrlandoSentinel.com. August 28, 2010.
- ^ "Austin Rivers commits to Duke". ESPN.com. September 30, 2010. Retrieved March 29, 2023.
- ^ "Duke Inks Four During Early Signing Period". GoDuke.com. November 16, 2010. Retrieved November 19, 2014.
- ^ Collings, Buddy (March 5, 2011). "Winter Park repeats as 6A champ with win over Dr. Phillips". Orlando Sentinel. Retrieved March 22, 2011.
- ^ Payne, Greg (March 11, 2011). "Austin Rivers earns national honor". ESPNBoston.com. Retrieved March 29, 2023.
- ^ Scout.com: Austin Rivers Profile. Scouthoops.scout.com. Retrieved on August 16, 2012.
- ^ "Duke Tops China, 93-78, Sweeps Series". Duke University. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ "Austin Rivers Game-Winning Shot vs. UNC (2012)". YouTube.com. February 8, 2016. Archived from the original on December 21, 2021. Retrieved March 8, 2016.
- ^ "Austin Rivers' 3-pointer caps Duke rally, stuns North Carolina". ESPN.com. February 28, 2012. Archived from the original on October 28, 2020. Retrieved November 19, 2014.
- ^ "Rapid Reaction: Lehigh 75, Duke 70". ESPN.com. March 17, 2012. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ "Rivers Officially Declares For NBA Draft". Hoops Rumors. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ "Rookies Davis, Rivers sign contracts with Hornets". NBA.com. Archived from the original on January 31, 2015. Retrieved November 19, 2014.
- ^ "Austin Rivers Undergoes Successful Surgery". New Orleans Pelicans. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ Notebook: Spurs 99, Hornets 95
- ^ Notebook: Timberwolves 113, Hornets 102
- ^ "Rivers Has Successful Surgery". New Orleans Pelicans. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ "Pelicans Exercise Third-Year Options on Anthony Davis and Austin Rivers". New Orleans Pelicans. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ Notebook: Rockets 111, Pelicans 104
- ^ Reid, John. "Pelicans pick up fourth-year option on Anthony Davis' contract, but not Austin Rivers'". NOLA.com. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ "Pelicans Decline Fourth-Year Option On Austin Rivers". basketball.realgm.com. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ Aldridge leads Trail Blazers over Pelicans 114-88
- ^ "Boston Celtics Complete Three-Team Trade". Boston Celtics. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ "LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS ACQUIRE AUSTIN RIVERS IN THREE-TEAM TRADE". Los Angeles Clippers. Retrieved November 22, 2020.
- ^ "Irving scores 37, Cavaliers hold on to beat Clippers 126-121". NBA.com. January 16, 2015. Retrieved January 16, 2015.
- ^ "Redick's 24 points help Clippers blow out Kings 126-99". NBA.com. February 21, 2015. Archived from the original on October 25, 2016. Retrieved February 22, 2015.
- ^ "Austin Rivers propels Clippers past Rockets 124-99". NBA.com. May 8, 2015. Retrieved May 9, 2015.
- ^ "CLIPPERS SIGN AUSTIN RIVERS AND COLE ALDRICH". NBA.com. July 13, 2015. Retrieved July 13, 2015.
- ^ "Clippers' Austin Rivers has been diagnosed with..." Twitter. February 6, 2016. Retrieved February 6, 2016.
- ^ "Adams' late basket lifts Thunder past Clippers 119-117". NBA.com. March 31, 2016. Retrieved April 1, 2016.
- ^ "Blazers advance 4-2 with 106-103 victory over the Clippers". NBA.com. April 29, 2016. Archived from the original on April 30, 2016. Retrieved May 2, 2016.
- ^ "Press Release: Clippers Re-sign Free Agents Crawford, Johnson, Mbah A Moute And Rivers". NBA.com. July 8, 2016. Retrieved July 8, 2016.
- ^ "Clippers hold off Magic 113-108 for third straight win". ESPN.com. December 14, 2016. Retrieved December 14, 2016.
- ^ "Clippers rally behind Rivers to beat Grizzlies 115-106". ESPN.com. January 4, 2017. Retrieved January 5, 2017.
- ^ "Austin Rivers to return for Los Angeles Clippers in Game 5". NBA.com. April 24, 2017. Retrieved April 25, 2017.
- ^ "Butler scores 33 points, T-Wolves outlast Clippers 112-106". ESPN.com. December 3, 2017. Retrieved December 4, 2017.
- ^ "Career night by Rivers leads Clippers over Rockets 128-118". ESPN.com. December 22, 2017. Retrieved December 23, 2017.
- ^ "Evans, Gasol help Grizzlies defeat Clippers 115-112". ESPN.com. December 23, 2017. Retrieved December 23, 2017.
- ^ "Clippers' Austin Rivers: Will play Friday". cbssports.com. February 9, 2018. Retrieved February 9, 2018.
- ^ "Clippers' Austin Rivers: Starting at point guard Friday". cbssports.com. February 9, 2018. Retrieved February 9, 2018.
- ^ Rosen, Zach (June 26, 2018). "Wizards boost backcourt with Rivers trade". NBA.com. Retrieved June 26, 2018.
- ^ Wojnarowski, Adrian (June 26, 2018). "Clippers send Austin Rivers to Wizards for Marcin Gortat". ESPN.com. Retrieved June 26, 2018.
- ^ "Phoenix Suns Complete Trade with Washington Wizards". NBA.com. December 17, 2018. Retrieved December 17, 2018.
- ^ "Phoenix Suns Waive Austin Rivers". NBA.com. December 18, 2018.
- ^ "Rockets Sign Free Agent Austin Rivers". NBA.com. December 24, 2018. Retrieved December 24, 2018.
- ^ "Trail Blazers beat Rockets as Harden's 40-point streak ends". ESPN.com. January 5, 2019. Retrieved January 6, 2019.
- ^ McGuire, Paul (April 7, 2019). "Houston Rockets 149, Phoenix Suns 111: New records set in blowout". Red94. Retrieved April 13, 2019.
- ^ "Suns vs. Rockets - Game Summary - April 7, 2019 - ESPN". ESPN.com. Retrieved April 13, 2019.
- ^ "Rockets Re-Sign Austin Rivers". Houston Rockets. Retrieved July 17, 2019.
- ^ "Rivers has career-high 41 as Rockets down Kings 129-112 - The Washington Post". The Washington Post.
- ^ "Knicks Sign Austin Rivers". NBA.com. November 27, 2020. Retrieved November 27, 2020.
- ^ "Thunder Acquires Tony Bradley, Austin Rivers, Two Second-Round Draft Picks and Generates Trade Exception". NBA.com. March 25, 2021. Retrieved March 25, 2021.
- ^ "Thunder Waives Austin Rivers". NBA.com. March 28, 2021. Retrieved April 16, 2021.
- ^ "Denver Nuggets Sign Austin Rivers to 10-Day Contract". NBA.com. April 20, 2021. Retrieved April 20, 2021.
- ^ "Nuggets' Murray has torn ACL, out indefinitely". ESPN.com. April 13, 2021. Retrieved April 20, 2021.
- ^ "Denver Nuggets sign Austin Rivers". NBA.com. April 30, 2021. Retrieved April 30, 2021.
- ^ "Denver Nuggets Re-Sign Austin Rivers". NBA.com. September 1, 2021. Retrieved September 1, 2021.
- ^ "Free agent Austin Rivers agrees to 1-year deal with Minnesota Timberwolves". ESPN.com. July 15, 2021. Retrieved July 15, 2022.
- ^ "NBA Communications on Twitter: "The following was released by the NBA."". Twitter. Retrieved February 4, 2023.
- ^ "11-Year NBA Veteran Reportedly Joining ESPN". Fastbreak On SI. October 23, 2023. Retrieved January 11, 2025.
- ^ Lerner, Drew (February 10, 2025). "NBC Sports hires Austin Rivers as college hoops analyst". Awful Announcing. Retrieved October 10, 2025.
- ^ "NBC Sports Finalizes Game Analyst Team and Adds Final Play-By-Play Voice for NBA Coverage Beginning This Fall". NBCUniversal. July 24, 2025. Retrieved October 10, 2025.
- ^ "Dad says Austin Rivers 'to slow it down and wait' on recruiting trail". USA Today. July 28, 2010. Retrieved August 24, 2010.
- ^ Williams, Lena (January 28, 1993). "Moving Is Just Part of the Game Plan". The New York Times.
- ^ Dowd, Katie (September 14, 2019). "Seth Curry and Callie Rivers wed in Malibu ceremony". SFGate. Retrieved September 15, 2019.
- ^ Schmitt Boyer, Mary (March 31, 2013). "Austin Rivers, Austin Carr now old buddies: Cleveland Cavaliers Insider". The Plain Dealer. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Knicks' Austin Rivers: Out Thursday". CBS Sports. March 18, 2021.
- ^ "Reese Rivers 🌸🤍🥹 06-21-24". Instagram. June 27, 2024.
External links
[edit]- Career statistics from NBA.com · Basketball Reference
- Duke Blue Devils bio
- NBADraft.net profile
- Scout.com profile
- Rivals.com profile
Austin Rivers
View on GrokipediaEarly life and education
Early life
Austin James Rivers was born on August 1, 1992, in Santa Monica, California.[6] He is the son of NBA coach and former player Doc Rivers and his wife, Kristen Rivers.[7] Rivers has three siblings: older brother Jeremiah, older sister Callie, and younger brother Spencer.[6] His sister Callie is married to professional basketball player Seth Curry.[8] From an early age, Rivers was immersed in the world of professional basketball due to his father's career. Doc Rivers played as a point guard for the Los Angeles Clippers during the 1991–1992 NBA season, coinciding with Austin's birth and infancy, providing the young Rivers with direct exposure to the sport's highest level. In 1999, when Doc Rivers was hired as head coach of the Orlando Magic, the family relocated to Winter Park, Florida, a suburb of Orlando.[9] There, Rivers began his initial youth basketball experiences, joining local teams where he initially viewed himself as one of the weaker players but gradually built foundational skills amid the competitive environment.[10] This early period, influenced heavily by his father's guidance, fostered Rivers' aspirations to pursue a career in basketball.[11]High school career
Rivers attended Winter Park High School in Winter Park, Florida, throughout his high school career from 2007 to 2011.[12] As a junior in the 2009–10 season, he led the Wildcats to their first Florida Class 6A state championship with a 76–57 victory over Dr. Phillips High School in the final, scoring prolifically throughout the tournament.[13] In his senior year of 2010–11, Rivers guided Winter Park to a repeat title, defeating Dr. Phillips again 52–44 in the championship game where he contributed 25 points and 11 rebounds.[14] Rivers earned Florida Mr. Basketball honors in 2011 for his outstanding performance, which included leading the state in scoring.[15] He was selected as a McDonald's All-American that same year, playing for the West team in the prestigious all-star game.[16] He was also named the 2011 Naismith National High School Player of the Year.[17] During his senior season, he averaged 28.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while helping the team achieve a 29–5 record.[18] As the top-ranked recruit in the class of 2011, Rivers drew interest from elite college programs including Duke, North Carolina, and Florida before committing to Duke University on September 30, 2010.[19] His decision bolstered Duke's recruiting class, where he was seen as a key addition to the backcourt following his father's storied NBA legacy.[6] In 2016, Winter Park High School retired Rivers' jersey number 25.[20]College career
Austin Rivers played one season of college basketball for the Duke Blue Devils during the 2011–12 season under head coach Mike Krzyzewski. As a highly touted recruit from Winter Park High School in Florida, Rivers committed to Duke on September 30, 2010, choosing the program over several other top suitors.[21] He appeared in all 34 games as a freshman, starting 33, and averaged 15.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 43.0% from the field.[21] His scoring prowess earned him recognition as the ACC Rookie of the Year and a spot on the ACC All-Freshman Team.[22][23] One of the highlights of Rivers' college tenure came on February 8, 2012, when he hit a dramatic buzzer-beating 3-pointer to secure an 85–84 victory over rival North Carolina in Chapel Hill, ending the Tar Heels' 31-game home winning streak.[24] In that game, Rivers scored a season-high 29 points on 9-of-16 shooting.[](https://www.espn.com/m mens-college-basketball/game/_/gameId/320390153/duke-north-carolina) The win helped propel Duke to a strong finish in conference play, where the Blue Devils posted a 13–3 record to secure second place in the ACC regular season standings behind North Carolina.[25] Duke entered the 2012 ACC Tournament as the No. 2 seed but fell to Florida State in the semifinals, 62–59.[25] In the NCAA Tournament, Duke earned a No. 2 seed in the Midwest Region but suffered a shocking first-round upset loss to No. 15 Lehigh, 75–70, on March 16, 2012, in Greensboro, North Carolina.[26] Rivers contributed 19 points in the defeat but could not prevent the early exit.[27] Following the season, on March 26, 2012, Rivers announced his decision to forgo his remaining college eligibility and declare for the 2012 NBA Draft, hiring an agent in the process.[28]Professional basketball career
New Orleans Pelicans (2012–2015)
Austin Rivers was selected by the New Orleans Hornets with the 10th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft out of Duke University.[29] As the son of former NBA player and coach Doc Rivers, he entered the league with high expectations as a versatile combo guard known for his scoring ability and athleticism.[30] The Hornets, who had relocated from Charlotte and were in the midst of a rebuilding phase, viewed Rivers as a key piece to develop alongside emerging talent like Anthony Davis.[31] In his rookie season of 2012–13, Rivers faced significant challenges, including a preseason ankle injury that required arthroscopic surgery to remove bone chips, delaying his debut until late October.[32] He appeared in 61 games, starting 26 due to injuries to other backcourt players like Eric Gordon and Greivis Vásquez, but struggled with efficiency and consistency in a limited role off the bench for much of the year.[33] Rivers averaged 6.2 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game in 23.2 minutes, shooting 37.4 percent from the field.[1] His season was further disrupted in March when he fractured a bone in his right hand against the Los Angeles Lakers, causing him to miss the final 21 games.[34] Despite the setbacks, Rivers showed flashes of potential, particularly in transition scoring and perimeter defense, as the team finished with a 27–55 record under coach Monty Williams.[35] The franchise underwent a rebranding ahead of the 2013–14 season, officially becoming the New Orleans Pelicans in May 2013 to reflect local heritage and distance from the original Charlotte Hornets identity.[36] Rivers demonstrated notable improvement in his sophomore year, benefiting from a full offseason to refine his shot and decision-making. He played in all 69 games, averaging 7.7 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 19.4 minutes per game, with a slight uptick in field-goal percentage to 40.1.[1] Coach Williams experimented with Rivers in the starting lineup for stretches, particularly when injuries sidelined veterans, allowing him to handle the ball more and improve his playmaking.[37] By season's end, Rivers averaged 16.0 points over the Pelicans' final four games, signaling growing confidence and earning praise from Williams for his maturation as a combo guard.[37] The Pelicans improved to 34–48, buoyed by Rivers' development alongside Davis, though the team still missed the playoffs.[38] Entering the 2014–15 season, Rivers continued to battle for minutes amid backcourt competition from Jrue Holiday and Tyreke Evans, starting 7 of his 35 games with the Pelicans before the trade deadline.[1] He averaged 6.8 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 22.1 minutes, maintaining a bench role focused on perimeter shooting and energy plays.[1] Persistent trade rumors swirled around Rivers throughout the year, fueled by the Pelicans' need for frontcourt depth and his impending restricted free agency.[39] On January 15, 2015, he was dealt in a three-team trade to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for assets including a first-round pick, ending his tenure in New Orleans after two and a half seasons.[39] Over 165 regular-season games with the Hornets/Pelicans, Rivers averaged 6.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game in 21.6 minutes, starting 33 contests while adapting to a rebuilding roster marked by injuries and transitions.[1] His time in New Orleans laid the foundation for his NBA career, emphasizing resilience amid early professional hurdles.Los Angeles Clippers (2015–2018)
On January 15, 2015, the Los Angeles Clippers acquired Austin Rivers from the Boston Celtics in a three-team trade also involving the Phoenix Suns, reuniting him with his father, Doc Rivers, who served as the team's head coach.[39] This move marked the first instance in NBA history of a father coaching his son on the same team, drawing significant attention to the family dynamic while Rivers adjusted to a reserve role alongside established stars like Chris Paul and Blake Griffin.[40] In the remaining 41 games of the 2014–15 regular season, he averaged 7.1 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game off the bench, contributing to the Clippers' 56–26 record and their advancement to the Western Conference Semifinals, where they fell to the Houston Rockets in seven games.[1][41] Rivers solidified his position as a key reserve during the 2015–16 season, appearing in 67 games with just seven starts and posting averages of 8.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, helping the Clippers secure the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference with a 53–29 record.[1] His defensive energy and perimeter shooting provided valuable depth in the backcourt, particularly during playoff matchups, as the team reached the first round but lost to the Portland Trail Blazers in six games.[42] Playing under his father's guidance fostered professional growth amid public scrutiny, with Rivers later reflecting that the experience honed his resilience and work ethic without favoritism.[43] By the 2016–17 season, Rivers' role expanded significantly, starting 29 of 74 games and achieving season averages of 12.0 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, often sharing the court with Paul at point guard and Griffin at power forward in lineups designed to maximize spacing and transition play.[1][44] The Clippers again earned a playoff berth as the No. 4 seed (51–31 record) but were eliminated in the first round by the Utah Jazz in a three-game sweep.[44] His improved scoring efficiency and playmaking became integral to the team's offensive flow, particularly as injuries tested the roster's depth. Rivers reached his peak with the Clippers in 2017–18, starting 59 of 61 games and delivering career-high averages of 15.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, showcasing enhanced shot creation and leadership in the backcourt.[1] However, the team struggled to a 42–40 record and missed the playoffs for the first time during his tenure, signaling the onset of a rebuild.[45] Over his three full seasons from 2015–16 to 2017–18, Rivers appeared in 202 regular-season games, averaging 12.0 points and 2.8 assists while evolving from a bench contributor to a starting-caliber guard.[1] On June 26, 2018, amid the franchise's shift toward youth and asset accumulation, he was traded to the Washington Wizards for center Marcin Gortat, ending the notable father-son partnership.[46]Washington Wizards and Houston Rockets (2018–2020)
On June 26, 2018, the Los Angeles Clippers traded Austin Rivers to the Washington Wizards in exchange for center Marcin Gortat.[46] In the 2018–19 season, Rivers served as a bench guard for the Wizards, appearing in 29 games and averaging 7.2 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 39.2% from the field.[1] On December 15, 2018, the Wizards traded Rivers and Kelly Oubre Jr. to the Phoenix Suns for Trevor Ariza, but the Suns waived Rivers the following day.[47] He signed with the Houston Rockets on December 24, 2018, for the remainder of the season.[48] Joining a Rockets team led by James Harden and Chris Paul, Rivers filled a backup guard role, providing scoring and defensive versatility off the bench. In the remaining 47 regular-season games of 2018–19, he averaged 8.7 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 36.6% from three-point range.[1] During the playoffs, Rivers contributed to Houston's run to the Western Conference Finals, where they lost to the Golden State Warriors in seven games; he appeared in all 10 postseason contests, averaging 7.4 points per game. In the 2019–20 season, Rivers remained with the Rockets as a key reserve, playing in 68 games and averaging 8.0 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game while shooting 38.7% from the field.[1] The season was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a restart in the NBA bubble at Walt Disney World, where the Rockets advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals before falling to the Los Angeles Lakers in five games; Rivers averaged 4.8 points in 12 playoff appearances. Across his tenures with the Wizards and Rockets from 2018 to 2020, Rivers played 144 regular-season games, averaging 8.3 points and 2.0 assists per game.[1]New York Knicks (2020–2021)
On November 27, 2020, Rivers was acquired by the New York Knicks via a sign-and-trade deal from the Houston Rockets, agreeing to a three-year, $10 million contract with the final two years non-guaranteed.[49] This move came after Rivers became a free agent following his release from the Rockets earlier in the offseason, marking his seventh NBA team in eight seasons.[50] During the 2020–21 season, shortened to 72 games due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Rivers served primarily as a bench guard for the Knicks under first-year head coach Tom Thibodeau, often functioning as the sixth man in the backcourt alongside starters Derrick Rose and Elfrid Payton.[51] In 21 games with New York, he averaged 7.3 points, 2.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 0.6 steals in 21.0 minutes per game, starting twice.[1] His shooting efficiency included 43.0% from the field and 36.4% from three-point range, providing spacing and scoring punch off the bench during a Knicks resurgence that saw them improve from a 21-45 record the prior season.[1] Notable performances included a 25-point outburst in just 11 first-half minutes against the Utah Jazz on January 26, 2021, where he shot a perfect 10-of-10 from the field, though the Knicks fell 105-99.[52] Rivers' contributions helped stabilize the Knicks' rotation amid injuries and the league's health protocols, as New York started the season 15-8 and climbed to fourth in the Eastern Conference.[53] However, his role diminished after the Knicks acquired Derrick Rose in February 2021, limiting him to under five minutes in his final two appearances. On March 25, 2021, Rivers was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder as part of a three-team deal that brought veteran point guard George Hill to New York. The Thunder waived Rivers on March 28, 2021, without him appearing in a game for the team.[54] On April 20, 2021, he signed a 10-day contract with the Denver Nuggets, which was converted to a contract for the remainder of the season. The Knicks went on to clinch a playoff berth for the first time since 2013, finishing 41-31, though Rivers did not participate in the postseason.[55]Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves (2021–2023)
On April 20, 2021, the Denver Nuggets signed Rivers to a 10-day contract following a season-ending injury to Jamal Murray, which was later converted to the remainder of the 2020–21 season. In 15 games with Denver that season, he averaged 3.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game in 26.9 minutes, starting 5 contests.[1] Following his time with the New York Knicks earlier in the 2020–21 season, Rivers signed a one-year contract with the Denver Nuggets on August 1, 2021.[56] In the 2021–22 season, he assumed a bench role for the Nuggets, appearing in 67 games while starting 18, and averaged 6.0 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 22.1 minutes per game.[1] An early-season injury sidelined him for eight games in December, limiting his initial rhythm, but he settled into a consistent rotation spot as a perimeter defender and shooter thereafter.[57] The Nuggets advanced to the playoffs but were eliminated in the first round by the Golden State Warriors in five games, during which Rivers contributed off the bench in all five contests, averaging 4.2 points and 1.2 assists in 21.6 minutes per game.[1] As a free agent following the 2021–22 campaign, Rivers agreed to a one-year, veteran-minimum contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves on July 14, 2022, reuniting him with former Nuggets executive Tim Connelly, who had joined Minnesota's front office.[58] During the 2022–23 regular season, he played in 52 games for the Timberwolves, starting 10, and posted averages of 4.9 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 19.5 minutes per game, primarily serving as a backup guard with occasional starts amid backcourt injuries.[1] His scoring efficiency from beyond the arc—shooting 36.7% on 2.3 attempts per game—provided spacing for Minnesota's young core, though his role diminished late in the season.[1] The Timberwolves qualified for the playoffs as the eighth seed in the Western Conference but fell to the Nuggets in the first round (4–1), with Rivers appearing in four games and averaging 2.5 points in limited minutes off the bench.[1] Across his final two seasons with the Nuggets and Timberwolves, he appeared in 119 regular-season games, averaging 5.5 points and 1.3 assists per game, along with 1.6 rebounds in 20.8 minutes.[1]International and retirement (2023–present)
After concluding his NBA tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he appeared in 52 games during the 2022–23 season, Rivers did not sign with another professional team following the expiration of his contract in 2023.[1] He officially retired from basketball in October 2025 at age 33, capping an 11-season career in which he played 707 regular-season games across seven franchises, averaging 8.5 points per game.[59][60] Rivers reflected on his transition as one he had anticipated and planned for years in advance, emphasizing the importance of retiring on his own terms rather than chasing diminishing opportunities as a veteran journeyman.[59] As the son of longtime NBA coach and former player Doc Rivers, he acknowledged the unique pressures of being a second-generation athlete but expressed satisfaction with achieving a decade-plus of professional play despite early hype as a top high school recruit.[59] His motivations for stepping away included a desire to prioritize family time and explore media opportunities, which aligned with his growing interest in broadcasting during the latter stages of his career.[59]Post-playing career
Broadcasting career
Following the end of his playing career after the 2022–23 NBA season, Austin Rivers transitioned into broadcasting by joining ESPN as an NBA studio analyst in October 2023.[61] He contributed to shows such as NBA Today and SportsCenter, providing analysis during the 2023-24 NBA season.[61] This role marked his initial foray into media, leveraging his 11-year NBA experience across multiple teams.[62] In 2025, Rivers expanded his broadcasting presence by signing with NBC Sports, where he serves as a game analyst for both college basketball and NBA coverage.[63] His college basketball duties began in February 2025, including calls for games like Indiana-Michigan State on Peacock.[64] For the NBA, he contributes to NBC's coverage of up to 100 regular-season games starting in fall 2025, with additional playoff assignments and occasional studio work on NBC and Peacock.[63] This non-exclusive deal allows him to continue select ESPN contributions.[64] As of November 2025, Rivers continues to provide game analysis for NBA on NBC programming, including discussions on key player performances during the 2025-26 season.[65] Rivers has been noted for his commentary on player-coach dynamics, drawing from his experience playing under his father, Doc Rivers, during his time with the Los Angeles Clippers.[66] He has made guest appearances on programs like The Pat McAfee Show, discussing topics such as NBA Finals matchups and Team USA performances in 2024.[67] His work has received praise for offering an authentic insider perspective, particularly on the challenges faced by second-generation athletes in professional sports.[68]Other ventures
After concluding his playing career following the 2022–23 NBA season, Austin Rivers has sponsored the SE Elite Grassroots Academy, a 501(c)(3) non-profit AAU basketball organization based in Orlando, Florida, which provides competitive playing opportunities and skill development for youth athletes in the region.[69] The program, officially named Austin Rivers SE Elite, focuses on middle school players through tryouts and grassroots circuits, emphasizing community-based basketball access for underserved young talent in Central Florida.[70] Rivers' involvement supports mentorship efforts, drawing from his own experiences to guide emerging players on and off the court.[71] In addition to his sponsorship role, Rivers hosts the podcast Off Guard with Austin Rivers on The Ringer network, co-hosted with longtime friend Pausha Haghighi, where they offer insider perspectives on NBA topics through conversations and analysis.[68] Launched post-playing career, the show highlights his transition into media production beyond traditional broadcasting.[72] Rivers has explored endorsement opportunities in clothing and media post-playing career, though no major new deals have been publicly announced as of 2025. His community efforts through SE Elite underscore ongoing involvement in youth development without notable post-NBA awards.[73]Career statistics and accomplishments
NBA statistics
Austin Rivers played 707 games in his NBA regular season career, accumulating 5,996 points for an average of 8.5 points per game, 1,442 rebounds at 2.0 rebounds per game, and 1,513 assists at 2.1 assists per game.[1] His career shooting splits were 41.9% from the field and 34.9% from three-point range.[1] Advanced metrics highlight a player efficiency rating (PER) of 9.7 and a true shooting percentage of 51.6%, reflecting his efficiency as a combo guard.[1] The following table summarizes his regular season per-game averages by year and team, focusing on key categories such as games played, minutes per game, field goal percentage, three-point percentage, free throw percentage, and points per game.| Season | Team(s) | G | MP | FG% | 3P% | FT% | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-13 | NOH | 61 | 23.2 | .372 | .326 | .546 | 6.2 |
| 2013-14 | NOP | 69 | 19.4 | .405 | .364 | .636 | 7.7 |
| 2014-15 | NOP, LAC | 76 | 20.6 | .409 | .298 | .675 | 7.0 |
| 2015-16 | LAC | 67 | 21.9 | .438 | .335 | .681 | 8.9 |
| 2016-17 | LAC | 74 | 27.8 | .442 | .371 | .691 | 12.0 |
| 2017-18 | LAC | 61 | 33.7 | .424 | .378 | .642 | 15.1 |
| 2018-19 | WAS, HOU | 76 | 26.7 | .406 | .318 | .526 | 8.1 |
| 2019-20 | HOU | 68 | 23.4 | .421 | .356 | .703 | 8.8 |
| 2020-21 | NYK, DEN | 36 | 23.5 | .424 | .369 | .710 | 7.9 |
| 2021-22 | DEN | 67 | 22.1 | .417 | .342 | .727 | 6.0 |
| 2022-23 | MIN | 52 | 19.5 | .435 | .350 | .769 | 4.9 |
| Career | 707 | 23.8 | .419 | .349 | .653 | 8.5 |
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