Trae Young
The creative architect who led the Hawks to three playoff runs, including a trip to the conference finals in 2021.
Rayford Trae Young (born September 19, 1998) is an American professional basketball player for the Washington Wizards of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Oklahoma Sooners, where in his one season in 2017–18, he tied the then NCAA Division I single-game assists record with 22 and became the only player to ever lead the NCAA in both points and assists in a single season. Nicknamed "Ice Trae", he was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2018 NBA draft with the fifth pick, and traded the same day to the Atlanta Hawks, along with a future first-round pick, for the draft rights to Luka Dončić. He joined Dončić in a unanimous selection to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2019. He is a four-time NBA All-Star, and led the Hawks to three playoff runs, including a trip to the conference finals in 2021.
- Position
- Point Guard
- Draft Year
- 2018
- College
- University of Oklahoma
- Jersey Number
- 11
- Team
- Atlanta Hawks
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Young's arrival in Atlanta came via a draft-night trade on June 21, 2018, when the Hawks sent the draft rights to Luka Dončić to the Dallas Mavericks for Young and a protected future first-round pick. In his rookie season, he posted a then-career-high 49 points alongside 16 assists in a 168–161 quadruple-overtime loss to the Chicago Bulls on March 1, 2019. By his second season, he was named an NBA All-Star starter on January 23, 2020. On February 20, 2020, he scored a career-high 50 points in a 129–124 win against the Miami Heat. In the 2021 playoffs, Young made his debut with 32 points, 7 rebounds, and 10 assists in a 107–105 game 1 win over the New York Knicks, hitting a game-winning floater with 0.9 seconds left. He then dropped a playoff career-high 48 points, alongside 11 assists and seven rebounds, in a 116–113 game 1 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks in the conference finals. On August 3, 2021, he agreed to a five-year max extension with the Hawks worth $172 million guaranteed, potentially up to $207 million. On January 3, 2022, he scored a career-high 56 points, along with 14 assists, in a 136–131 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.
In Their Own Story
The arena hums with anticipation under the bright lights. Trae Young stands at the top of the key, ball secure in hand. The crowd holds its breath as he surveys the defense, eyes locking on a lane opening up. He drives, spins, and fires a pass that finds an open teammate for a layup. The roar erupts as the magic unfolds on the hardwood.
Reader's Guide
The culture surrounding Trae Young extends beyond simple fandom into a shared identity of hope and resilience among Hawks supporters. Watching him play at State Farm Arena is a ritual where every assist and three-pointer feels like a step toward restoring championship glory to Atlanta. Fans often gather before games, wearing number eleven jerseys as a symbol of unity. The energy in the stands reflects Young's own intensity, with chants rising when he creates opportunities for teammates. This tradition reinforces the idea that success is built on collective effort and local pride. For many young supporters across Georgia, Young represents accessibility and excellence. His journey from college to NBA stardom inspires a new generation of players in the region. The culture he helps foster ensures that the Hawks remain relevant and beloved within the broader sports community.
Did You Know?
- Young tied the then NCAA Division I single-game assists record with 22 on December 19, 2017, while also recording 26 points in a 105–68 win against Northwestern State.
- He is the only player to ever lead the NCAA in both points and assists in a single season.
- On February 20, 2020, Young scored a career-high 50 points in a 129–124 win against the Miami Heat, hitting 8-of-15 three pointers.
- In the 2021 playoffs, Young joined LeBron James, Chris Paul, and Derrick Rose as the only players in league history to record 30 points and 10 assists in their playoff debuts.
- From November 22, 2021 to January 7, 2022, Young had 17 consecutive 25-point games, breaking a tie with Dominique Wilkins for the franchise record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Trae Young and what team does he play for?
He is a star point guard who serves as the face of the franchise and leads the team's offense. Selected in the first round of the 2018 NBA Draft, he has become a central figure in modern Atlanta basketball.
What position does Trae Young play for the Hawks?
Trae Young plays the point guard position and wears jersey number 11 for the organization. He orchestrates the offense and serves as the main playmaker who controls how the team scores points.
Where did Trae Young go to college before joining the NBA?
Before entering the professional league, he played his college basketball at the University of Oklahoma. His performance there helped propel him to becoming a top pick in the draft.
Why is Trae Young considered a franchise icon in Atlanta?
Young embodies a fresh wave of skill and guidance that revitalized the franchise's competitive standing. Supporters consider him an active legend because of his offensive output and dedication to Atlanta.
Is Trae Young still an active player with the Atlanta Hawks?
Yes, he remains an active player who continues to lead the team on the court. His status is currently listed as a key member of the roster moving forward.