Since entering the NBA in 2018, Trae Young has quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier talents. Known for his exceptional shooting range, playmaking ability, and high basketball IQ, Young has delivered a plethora of memorable moments that have captivated basketball fans worldwide. This article delves into the top 10 career highlights of Trae Young, showcasing the milestones that have defined his young career.

1. NBA All-Star Selection

One of the most significant achievements in any player’s career is being selected for the NBA All-Star Game. In 2020, Trae Young earned his first All-Star selection, showcasing his rise as one of the elite players in the league. This recognition not only highlighted his individual talents but also brought attention to the Atlanta Hawks, a franchise on the upswing.

2. Historic Rookie Season

Trae Young’s rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 19.1 points, 8.1 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game, he quickly became a fan favorite. His impressive performances included:

• Leading all rookies in assists.
• Setting a franchise record for most three-pointers made by a rookie.
• Becoming the first rookie in NBA history to record a 30-point, 10-assist game.

These achievements set the stage for his promising future and established him as a cornerstone for the Hawks’ rebuilding process.

3. 2021 Playoff Run

Trae Young’s most memorable moments came during the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Leading the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals, he played a pivotal role in their unexpected success. Key highlights from this playoff run include:

• Eliminating the New York Knicks in the first round, where he averaged 29.2 points and 9.8 assists per game.
• Scoring 48 points in a decisive Game 1 victory against the Philadelphia 76ers.
• Displaying poise and leadership, particularly in clutch situations against the top-seeded teams.

This playoff run not only solidified Young’s status as a star but also reinvigorated the Hawks’ fanbase.

4. 50-Point Game Against the Miami Heat

On March 17, 2022, Trae Young delivered a career-defining performance by scoring 50 points against the Miami Heat. This game stood out for several reasons:

• Young shot 17 of 33 from the field, including 7 of 13 from three-point range.
• He contributed 10 assists, showcasing his dual-threat capability.
• This performance marked his first career 50-point game, further solidifying his scoring prowess.

Such performances demonstrate Young’s ability to take over games and put the team on his back when it matters most.

5. Historic Assist Milestones

Trae Young is not just a scorer; he’s also one of the NBA’s elite playmakers. He has consistently ranked among the league leaders in assists, and several milestones highlight his incredible passing ability:

• Young became the youngest player in NBA history to reach 1,000 career assists.
• He recorded over 800 assists in both the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 seasons.
• His vision and ability to read defenses make him a nightmare for opposing teams.

These achievements underline his playmaking skills, making him a dual threat on the court.

6. Iconic Game-Winning Shots

Trae Young has earned a reputation for hitting clutch shots, often stepping up in pressure situations. Some iconic game-winning moments include:

• A buzzer-beater against the Chicago Bulls in January 2021, showcasing his cold-blooded nature.
• A dramatic three-pointer to seal a victory against the Philadelphia 76ers in the playoffs.
• His ability to perform in crunch time has made him a go-to player for the Hawks.

These clutch performances have not only won games but have also solidified his reputation as a clutch performer.

7. Breaking Records for Three-Pointers

Known for his deep shooting range, Trae Young has broken numerous records for three-pointers. Some notable achievements include:

• Holding the record for the most three-pointers made by a player before turning 23 years old.
• Consistently ranking among the top shooters in the league for three-point percentage.
• Establishing himself as a player who can stretch defenses, making life easier for his teammates.

His shooting ability has transformed the way the game is played, making him a vital asset for the Hawks.

8. Leading the Hawks to a Winning Record

In the 2021-2022 season, Trae Young led the Hawks to a winning record, showcasing his growth as a leader. This achievement is significant because:

• It marked a turnaround for the franchise, which had struggled in previous seasons.
• Young’s leadership on the court was instrumental in developing younger players.
• The Hawks secured a playoff spot, marking a successful season for the team.

Young’s leadership qualities are evident, and his ability to uplift those around him reflects his growth as a player.

9. International Recognition

Trae Young’s skills have not gone unnoticed on the international stage. He has represented Team USA, contributing to their success in international competitions. Highlights include:

• Helping Team USA secure a gold medal at the FIBA U19 World Cup.
• Being selected for the USA Basketball Men’s National Team, showcasing his talent on a global platform.
• His performances have raised his profile internationally, making him a global ambassador for basketball.

This recognition has further solidified his status as one of the top players in the world.

10. The Future Looks Bright

As Trae Young continues to evolve as a player, the future looks exceptionally bright. His combination of skill, work ethic, and determination suggests that he is on track to achieve even greater heights. Key factors that contribute to his promising future include:

• His continuous improvement in shooting efficiency and decision-making.
• The potential for additional All-Star selections and accolades.
• His leadership role with the Hawks and their potential for future success in the playoffs.

With each passing season, Young’s potential seems limitless, making him a player to watch in the coming years.

Trae Young’s career highlights thus far encapsulate the journey of a young superstar who has already made a significant impact on the NBA. From his historic rookie season to his playoff heroics and record-breaking shooting, Young has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the basketball court. As he progresses in his career, fans can expect even more thrilling moments from this extraordinary talent. With his combination of skill, leadership, and determination, Trae Young is poised to be a defining player in the NBA for years to come.