Celebrating Trae Young: A Look Back at His Top Five Moments with the Atlanta Hawks
In honor of Trae Young’s birthday, it’s only fitting to reflect on the electrifying moments that have defined his career with the Atlanta Hawks. As he steps into his eighth season at 27 years old, Young is poised to enter what many consider the prime of his career. Here, we celebrate the five standout moments that have not only showcased his talent but have also endeared him to fans and cemented his legacy in Atlanta.
Memorable Playoff Moments Against the Knicks
The 2021 playoffs marked a significant chapter in Young’s career, with his first series spotlighted by a fierce matchup against the New York Knicks. Game 1 was particularly unforgettable, as Young hit a game-winning shot that sent shockwaves through Madison Square Garden. His celebration, which included a bold proclamation to the crowd, “IT’S QUIET AS F* IN HERE,” perfectly encapsulated the rivalry brewing between him and Knicks fans.
As the series progressed, Young continued to deliver, culminating in a decisive Game 5 performance where he scored 36 points and famously bowed on the Knicks logo, igniting a competitive spirit that would fuel their encounters for years to come. This series was a pivotal moment for Young, establishing him as one of the NBA’s rising stars.
An Electrifying 48-Point Game in the Eastern Conference Finals
Young’s performance in Game 1 of the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals against the Milwaukee Bucks is another cornerstone of his legacy. With the Hawks making just their second appearance in this prestigious round, Young took the stage, nearly achieving a triple-double with 48 points, seven rebounds, and 11 assists.
His dazzling play, marked by a signature shimmy before a deep three-pointer, not only showcased his skill but also sparked frustration in the Bucks’ camp, particularly with Giannis Antetokounmpo. This game was a testament to Young’s ability to rise to the occasion, especially when faced with skepticism from critics who doubted his capacity to lead the Hawks deep into the playoffs.
Game-Winning Heroics in the Face of Adversity
Fast forward to the 2023 playoffs, where Young faced an uphill battle in Game 5 against the Boston Celtics. With All-Star teammate Dejounte Murray sidelined due to a suspension, Young found himself in a do-or-die situation. Trailing by 13 points with just six minutes remaining, the Hawks rallied, culminating in a dramatic game-winning three-pointer launched from near the logo.
This moment exemplified Young’s resilience and clutch gene, proving once again that he thrives under pressure. His ability to deliver in crucial moments has become a hallmark of his career, capturing the hearts of Hawks fans and solidifying his status as a leader on the court.
Historic Performance Against the Lakers
In December 2024, Young etched his name into the history books with a remarkable 31-point, 20-assist game against the Los Angeles Lakers. This performance not only led the Hawks to victory but also made Young the first player in franchise history to achieve such a feat.
Despite being overshadowed by the presence of LeBron James and a vocal Lakers fan base, Young refused to back down. His game-winning three-pointer in overtime secured a thrilling 134-132 victory, showcasing his tenacity and ability to shine on a national stage.
Stunning Half-Court Game Winner Against the Jazz
One of the most jaw-dropping moments of Young’s career came during a match against the Utah Jazz. With the Hawks leading for most of the game, the Jazz mounted a comeback, tying the score and seemingly heading for overtime. However, Young had other plans.
With mere seconds left, he launched a half-court shot over Collin Sexton that swished through the net, stunning the Utah crowd and sealing the win for Atlanta. This moment exemplified Young’s flair for the dramatic and his knack for making the impossible look routine.
As Trae Young continues to evolve as a player, these unforgettable moments serve as a reminder of his impact on the court and in the hearts of Hawks fans. His journey is just beginning, and the best may still be yet to come.
