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Trae Young: The Shooting Star Of Modern Basketball

Sain April 20, 2025

If you're into basketball, you've probably heard the name Trae Young more times than you can count. This guy is not just another player; he's a phenomenon, a game-changer, and a force to be reckoned with. Whether it's his jaw-dropping range, his silky-smooth crossover, or his unmatched court vision, Trae has become one of the most exciting players in the NBA today. So, buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the world of Trae Young, and trust me, it’s going to be a wild ride.

Trae Young is more than just a player; he's a story of resilience, grit, and passion. From his early days in Lubbock, Texas, to becoming a cornerstone of the Atlanta Hawks, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. This article isn’t just about stats and highlights; it’s about understanding what makes Trae tick, both on and off the court.

Let’s not sugarcoat it—Trae Young has faced his fair share of doubters. People questioned his size, his shooting style, and even his ability to compete at the highest level. But guess what? He didn’t just prove them wrong; he made them eat their words. Today, Trae is not only one of the best point guards in the league but also a cultural icon in the world of sports. So, if you’re ready to learn more about the man behind the magic, let’s get started.

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Early Life and Background

Trae Young’s story begins in Lubbock, Texas, where he was born on September 19, 1998. His parents, Rayford Young and Shanise Smith, were both athletes, which gave Trae a head start in the world of sports. Growing up, Trae was surrounded by basketball, and it wasn’t long before he started showing promise on the court. His father, Rayford, was a former basketball player at Mississippi Valley State University, while his mother played basketball at the University of Texas at Arlington. With such a strong foundation, it’s no surprise that Trae developed a love for the game at a young age.

Biography

Before we dive into his career, let’s take a quick look at some key facts about Trae Young. Below is a table summarizing his personal and professional details:

Full Name	Trae Edward Young
Date of Birth	September 19, 1998
Place of Birth	Lubbock, Texas, USA
Height	6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
Weight	180 lbs (82 kg)
Position	Point Guard
NBA Team	Atlanta Hawks

As you can see, Trae Young is not your typical NBA player. At 6'1" and 180 lbs, he’s smaller than most point guards, but don’t let his size fool you. What he lacks in height, he makes up for with his incredible skill set and basketball IQ.

College Career

Trae Young’s college career at the University of Oklahoma was nothing short of spectacular. In just one season, he set the college basketball world on fire with his scoring ability and playmaking skills. During the 2017-2018 season, Trae averaged an impressive 27.4 points and 8.7 assists per game, earning him the nickname “Trae the Exorcist.”

Some of his most memorable moments from college include:

Scoring 48 points against Texas Tech
Dishing out 10 assists in a game against West Virginia
Breaking the NCAA record for most points and assists in a single season

Although his time in college was brief, Trae left an indelible mark on the game, setting the stage for his transition to the NBA.

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The NBA Draft

After a stellar college career, Trae Young declared for the 2018 NBA Draft, where he was selected 5th overall by the Dallas Mavericks. However, in a draft-day trade, he was sent to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Luka Dončić. At the time, many people questioned the decision, but Trae quickly proved that the Hawks made the right move.

Adapting to the NBA

Trae’s first few months in the NBA were challenging. Critics pointed out his small frame and questioned whether he could succeed against bigger, more athletic defenders. But Trae didn’t let the doubters get to him. Instead, he worked tirelessly on his game, improving his defense and becoming a more efficient shooter.

By the end of his rookie season, Trae had established himself as one of the top rookies in the league, averaging 19.1 points and 8.1 assists per game. He even earned a spot in the 2019 NBA All-Star Weekend, participating in the Rising Stars Challenge and the Three-Point Contest.

Breakthrough Seasons

Trae Young’s breakout season came in 2020-2021, where he truly cemented his place as one of the best point guards in the NBA. That year, Trae averaged 25.3 points and 9.4 assists per game, leading the Atlanta Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals. His performance in the playoffs was nothing short of legendary, with standout games against the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers.

Key Playoff Moments

Here are some of Trae’s most memorable playoff moments:

Hitting a game-winning shot against the Knicks in Game 1 of the first round
Scoring 39 points in a crucial Game 7 victory over the 76ers
Breaking the NBA record for most threes made in a single playoff game

These moments not only showcased Trae’s talent but also his mental toughness and ability to perform under pressure.

Playing Style and Skills

Trae Young’s playing style is as unique as it is effective. Standing at just 6’1”, he relies on his incredible shooting range, quick release, and exceptional court vision to dominate opponents. His signature move is the step-back three-pointer, a shot that has become almost impossible to guard against.

Key Skills

Here are some of the skills that make Trae Young such a formidable opponent:

Unparalleled range from beyond the arc
Quick release on jump shots
Exceptional playmaking ability
Strong leadership qualities

What sets Trae apart from other point guards is his ability to create scoring opportunities not just for himself but for his teammates as well. His unselfish play and willingness to share the ball have made him a fan favorite in Atlanta.

Impact on the Atlanta Hawks

Trae Young’s impact on the Atlanta Hawks cannot be overstated. Since joining the team, he has transformed them from a mediocre franchise into a playoff contender. Under his leadership, the Hawks have made the playoffs in three consecutive seasons, something they hadn’t achieved in years.

Off the court, Trae has also become a community leader, using his platform to give back to those in need. Whether it’s hosting basketball clinics for underprivileged kids or donating to local charities, Trae has shown that he’s more than just an athlete; he’s a role model.

Challenges and Criticisms

No journey is without its challenges, and Trae Young’s career is no exception. Critics have pointed out his lack of defensive skills and his tendency to take high-risk shots. However, Trae has shown time and again that he’s willing to adapt and grow as a player.

How Trae Overcomes Criticism

Trae has always taken criticism in stride, using it as motivation to improve. Some of the ways he’s addressed these concerns include:

Improving his defensive stance and footwork
Working on his shot selection
Enhancing his leadership skills

By continuously evolving, Trae has proven that he’s not just a one-dimensional player but a complete basketball player.

The Future of Trae Young

As Trae Young continues to grow as a player, the future looks bright for both him and the Atlanta Hawks. With his unique skill set and leadership qualities, Trae has the potential to lead the Hawks to even greater heights. Many analysts believe that he could one day be mentioned in the same breath as NBA legends like Stephen Curry and Steve Nash.

But it’s not just about individual accolades for Trae. His ultimate goal is to bring an NBA championship to Atlanta, something the city has been longing for since the days of Dominique Wilkins.

Legacy and Influence

Trae Young’s influence extends beyond the basketball court. He’s become a cultural icon, inspiring a new generation of players with his unique style of play. His signature step-back three-pointer has become a staple in the NBA, and many young players aspire to emulate his success.

Off the court, Trae’s impact is equally significant. Through his charitable work and community involvement, he’s shown that being a professional athlete is about more than just winning games. It’s about making a difference in the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Trae Young is more than just a basketball player; he’s a phenomenon. From his humble beginnings in Lubbock, Texas, to becoming one of the best point guards in the NBA, Trae’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. His unique playing style, unmatched work ethic, and commitment to giving back to the community have made him a true role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.

So, what’s next for Trae Young? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—he’s just getting started. If you enjoyed this article, feel free to share it with your friends and family. And don’t forget to leave a comment below letting us know what you think about Trae Young. Who knows? Maybe one day we’ll see him lifting the Larry O’Brien Trophy!

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