Trae Young – Biography
Early life in Oklahoma
Trae Young was born on September 19, 1998, in Lubbock, Texas, but grew up in Norman, Oklahoma. His father, Rayford Young, played professional basketball overseas, which exposed Trae to the sport from an early age. With strong family support and access to high-level training, Trae quickly developed advanced ball-handling and shooting skills that set him apart from his peers.
High school standout
Young attended Norman North High School, where he became a local sensation. During his senior year, he averaged an impressive 42.6 points and 5.8 assists per game. His deep shooting range and flashy playmaking drew national attention. By the time he graduated, he was ranked among the top high school players in the country and earned a scholarship to play for the University of Oklahoma.
College breakout season
In his lone season at Oklahoma, Young took the college basketball world by storm. He led the nation in both scoring and assists, averaging 27.4 points and 8.7 assists per game. His ability to shoot from deep, combined with his elite passing, earned comparisons to NBA stars like Stephen Curry. Despite facing tough defenses, Young’s confidence and offensive creativity made him one of the most exciting players in college basketball.
NBA draft selection
In the 2018 NBA Draft, Young was selected fifth overall by the Dallas Mavericks but was immediately traded to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Luka Dončić. The trade set up high expectations for Young, who arrived in Atlanta ready to prove himself as a franchise cornerstone.
Rookie year impact
Young’s rookie season exceeded expectations. He averaged 19.1 points and 8.1 assists per game, showcasing his elite vision, quickness, and long-range shooting. His fearless play and ability to hit clutch shots quickly made him a fan favorite. By the end of his first season, he was a finalist for the NBA Rookie of the Year award.
Becoming an All-Star
In his second season, Young elevated his game, averaging 29.6 points and 9.3 assists per game. His offensive explosion earned him his first NBA All-Star selection in 2020. Young became known for his deep three-point shooting, creative passing, and confidence to take over games, even against top opponents.
Playoff breakthrough
The 2020-2021 season marked Young’s arrival as a playoff superstar. Leading the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals, he delivered multiple standout performances, including a 48-point game against the Milwaukee Bucks. His poise under pressure, leadership, and clutch scoring silenced many critics and cemented his place among the league’s elite young talents.
Leadership role
As the face of the Atlanta Hawks, Young continues to lead with his dynamic offensive game. His ability to score from anywhere on the court while setting up teammates has made Atlanta a constant playoff contender. Though still early in his career, Young’s leadership and competitive spirit remain central to the team’s success.
Playing style
Young is known for his exceptional shooting range, elite ball-handling, and high basketball IQ. His pick-and-roll mastery and ability to draw fouls make him a difficult matchup. While his defense has been questioned, his offensive brilliance more than compensates. Many consider him one of the best young point guards in the NBA today.
Off-court personality
Off the court, Young is active in community work and maintains a strong connection with fans. He launched the Trae Young Foundation, which focuses on mental health awareness and supporting underprivileged youth. Known for his humility and approachable demeanor, he’s earned respect not just for his game but also for his character and generosity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where was Trae Young born?
Trae Young was born in Lubbock, Texas, but grew up in Norman, Oklahoma.
Which college did he attend?
Young played one season at the University of Oklahoma, where he led the nation in scoring and assists.
Which NBA team does he play for?
Young plays for the Atlanta Hawks, who acquired him in a draft-day trade in 2018.
How many All-Star selections does he have?
Trae Young has earned multiple NBA All-Star selections early in his career.
What is his playing style?
He is known for his deep shooting, creative passing, and leadership as a dynamic point guard.