10 Things to Know: Stanford's Reid Travis

As we await tonight’s eligibility deadline, it’s important to keep in mind that no matter what happens, John Calipari has a plan. One potential ace in his sleeve is Reid Travis, the grad transfer from Stanford who could easily plug a hole on next year’s roster should PJ Washington, Jarred Vanderbilt, and/or Wenyen Gabriel decide to stay in the draft.

We’ve mentioned Travis from time to time on this site, but with the clock ticking, here’s a little bit more about him.

1. He was third in the Pac-12 in scoring and rebounding

Travis averaged 19.5 points and 8.7 rebounds last season, which ranked third in the Pac-12 in both categories. In fact, he was top three in the Pac-12 in ten categories overall, including made and attempted free throws, total points, total rebounds, and double doubles. In turn, he was named First Team All-Pac-12 for the second year in a row and was a NABC First Team All-District Selection.

2. He made his mark on the Stanford record books

Travis is one of only three players in Stanford history with at least 1,400 points and 700 rebounds in less than 100 career games. He ranks 10th on Stanford’s career rebounding list (758 rebounds) and 16th on the career scoring list (1,427 points). A three-year captain, he received the Hank Luisetti Most Valuable Player Award this past season.

3. He injured his leg as a sophomore, which earned him an extra year of eligibility

A top five power forward and McDonald’s All-American coming out of high school, Travis had a promising first year at Stanford, but suffered a leg injury early in his sophomore season, which earned him an extra year of eligibility. He’ll graduate next month and, once the semester is over, can transfer to the program of his liking with no restrictions.

4. He declared for the NBA Draft but was not invited to the Combine

Travis is also testing the waters of the NBA Draft, so he’ll have to let the NCAA know tonight if he’s staying in the draft or returning to college. He did not receive an invitation to the Combine and isn’t listed on any major mock drafts, but has worked out for several teams including Cleveland, Brooklyn, Denver, Minnesota, and Golden State.

(Update: Jeff Goodman is reporting Travis has withdrawn from the draft and Kentucky is the favorite.)

5. Kentucky and Duke may battle for his services

If John Calipari loses even one of the three players to the draft, Travis could be his first call. At 6’8″, 245 lbs., he’s a workhorse inside that could easily fill the void if PJ Washington goes pro. Even if PJ comes back, Kentucky would benefit from having Travis’ experience and consistency in the post. For that reason, reports suggest Mike Krzyzewski is also interested in picking him up, meaning Travis’ chances of being on a national title contending roster next season are high.

6. His nickname is R2D2

In an interview with Stanford’s kid reporter Gavin, Travis revealed that he gave himself the nickname R2D2 in high school, but it didn’t catch on in college. Maybe it can make a comeback in Lexington?

7. He played quarterback in high school

If he comes to Kentucky, get ready to hear that a million times per game.

8. Here he is with Anthony Davis

#tbt at the Academy with @AntDavis23. pic.twitter.com/irP60iGMra

— Reid Travis (@2ReidTravis2) January 24, 2014

The two met at the LeBron James Skills Academy in 2013.

9. Regardless of who comes back, I want him on my squad

The more I read about Travis, the more I like him. A smart, dependable double-double machine with over three years of experience playing at the college level? Come. On. Down.

10. He likes pineapple on his pizza

Nobody’s perfect. We’ll forgive you for that one, Reid.

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