Jenna Barber and Austin Reaves, both Newark, Arkansas residents and Cedar Ridge High School graduates, have reportedly been dating since 2014. Jenna Barber, a University of Arkansas graduate, turned 22 in December and has worked at NewarkRx Pharmacy since August 2019. She’s also a member of the sorority Alpha Omicron Pi.

Jenna Barber frequently updates about her close-knit family on Facebook. It is unknown whether she will be in Denver for Game 1 of the Western Conference playoffs, where Austin Reaves’ first NBA playoff appearance continues. Reaves, a 24-year-old guard, signed with the Lakers as an undrafted free agent on a two-way deal in 2021. He rose to prominence during the Lakers’ first-round playoff series against the Grizzlies, as he scored 23 points in Game 1 victory. Reaves demonstrated his abilities by scoring nine consecutive points in the fourth quarter and proclaiming “I’m him” on the court in a viral video.

LeBron James, the Lakers’ star, hailed Reaves after his first playoff game and voiced trust in his ability. Reaves also gained the nickname “hero” in March, when he had his first double-double of the season with 25 points and 11 assists in a victory over the Suns. He signed a regular contract with the Lakers in September.

As a second-year player, Reaves has been a valuable role player for the Lakers, who had a difficult start to the season but are now on the cusp of their first NBA Finals appearance since winning the championship during the 2020 NBA bubble season. The Lakers will face the Nuggets in the Western Conference finals, which begin on Tuesday at 8:30 p.m.