Trae Young Bio
Rayford Trae Young is an American professional basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks 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 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. Young was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018 and traded to the Atlanta Hawks, where he has become a four-time NBA All-Star and led the team to multiple playoff appearances.
Early Life and Background
Trae Young was born on September 19, 1998, in Lubbock, Texas, to parents Rayford and Candice Young. His father played basketball at Texas Tech and professionally overseas, which likely influenced Trae’s early interest in the sport. He has a younger brother and two younger sisters, and he was raised in Pampa, Texas, primarily by his mother and paternal grandparents. Young attended Norman North High School in Norman, Oklahoma, where he began to gain recognition for his basketball skills.
During his sophomore year, Young averaged 25 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds per game, helping his team win the 2015 area championship and earning the title of Oklahoma’s Sophomore of the Year. His junior year saw him improve significantly, averaging 34.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists, leading his team to a 28–4 record and a regional title. In his senior year, he averaged an impressive 42.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, solidifying his status as a top prospect.
Path to Basketball
Young was highly regarded in the 2017 recruiting class, being ranked among the best players by Scout.com, Rivals.com, and ESPN. He committed to play for the Oklahoma Sooners, becoming the university’s first five-star recruit since 2010. Young’s college career began with a standout performance, including a season-high 43 points and seven assists in a win over Oregon. He finished the season leading the NCAA in both points and assists, a historic achievement.
After an impressive freshman season, Young declared for the 2018 NBA Draft, where he was selected fifth overall by the Dallas Mavericks but was traded to the Atlanta Hawks on draft night. This marked the beginning of his professional career, which has been characterized by remarkable achievements and accolades.
Trae Young Career
Early Career (2018–2020)
Trae Young officially signed with the Atlanta Hawks on July 1, 2018, after being traded from the Dallas Mavericks. He made an immediate impact in the league, scoring a season-high 35 points and recording 11 assists in just his third game. Young was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2019, joining Luka Dončić as a unanimous selection.
In his second season, Young continued to impress, earning his first NBA All-Star selection in 2020. He showcased his scoring ability, including a career-high 50 points in a game against the Miami Heat. His performances solidified his reputation as one of the league’s premier point guards.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
Young’s breakthrough moment came during the 2021 NBA playoffs, where he led the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals. He averaged over 30 points per game in the playoffs, including a playoff career-high of 48 points in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks. His ability to perform under pressure and lead his team to victory garnered him national attention.
In subsequent seasons, Young continued to excel, earning multiple All-Star selections and leading the league in assists. He signed a five-year contract extension with the Hawks worth $172 million in 2021, further establishing his status as a franchise player.
Notable Works and Milestones
Trae Young’s signature work includes his historic college season where he became the only player to lead the NCAA in both points and assists. He has received numerous awards, including the Wayman Tisdale Award and NCAA scoring champion in 2018. Young’s dramatic moments include his game-winning performances in the playoffs and his record-setting games in the regular season.
Trae Young Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Trae Young has received several nominations for prestigious awards, including multiple NBA All-Star selections and All-NBA Team nominations.
Trae Young Awards Won
Trae Young has won several notable awards, including the Wayman Tisdale Award for National Freshman of the Year in 2018, the NCAA scoring champion title in the same year, and multiple NBA All-Star selections.
Trae Young Family
Trae Young is married to Shelby Miller, and the couple has two children, a son born in June 2022 and another child born in November 2023. He values family and often shares moments with them on social media.
Personal Life
Young is a Christian and has been involved in community service, including being named an Honorary Board Member at The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital in Oklahoma City. He has also had a street named after him in his hometown, recognizing his contributions and achievements in basketball.
