Latest news with #TraeYoung
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Trae Young talks about the evolution of WNBA: "20 years from now, there are going to be a few players that play like Caitlin Clark"
Trae Young talks about the evolution of WNBA: "20 years from now, there are going to be a few players that play like Caitlin Clark" originally appeared on Basketball Network. After toiling in relative obscurity over the last couple of decades, the WNBA has entered a new era of popularity and recognition led by Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Sabrina Ionescu and Paige Bueckers. The evolution of women's basketball has paved the way for a more entertaining style of play. Whether it's Clark shooting 3-pointers from near halfcourt or Reese dominating the glass or Paige asserting her dominance in her first season as a pro, the WNBA is now attracting more attention than ever before and influencing a new generation of young athletes. According to Atlanta Hawks All-Star Trae Young, this is a welcome development that will continue to drive women's basketball to new heights. Better versions of today's players in the future Basketball is a sport that continues to evolve. As players benefit from improved training methods and advanced technology, it won't be long before pundits and fans see even better versions of today's players. "It's just like every other sport. The evolution in everything is going to continue to get better," Young said on the "From The Point Podcast." "I mean, the players now are watching Caitlin and seeing what they're doing and want to just add that to their game and maybe add a little bit of spice, you know what I'm saying?" Ever since she arrived last year, Clark, who plays for the Indiana Fever, has seized control of the mythical title of face of the league. A deadly long-distance shooter who has incredible court vision and a ferocious competitive drive, she has quickly become a fan favorite. As her popularity continues to grow, so does her influence on the next generation. "Twenty years from now, there's going to be a few — you know what I'm saying — players that play like Caitlin just because of what she's done and the impact she's had on little kids and little girls around the world," Young league, different feel One veteran broadcaster who witnessed the WNBA's birth in 1996 is Mike Breen. He shared that while the league had bona fide women's hoop superstars like Cynthia Cooper, Rebecca Lobo and Sheryl Swoopes, the skill level that players possess these days is much more advanced than back in the day. "Back in '96, compared to now, the skill level is almost like two different sports," Breen noted. "Back then, the players were good. They were fundamentally sound, but there weren't a lot of good shooters. Now everybody can shoot; everybody can handle. They've got range. They've got flair to their game." Young expressed his enthusiasm for witnessing the sport's growth and evolution. At just 26, he acknowledges that he has plenty of time before earning the status of a veteran. Nevertheless, he pledged his unwavering support for basketball's continued development, both in the NBA and WNBA. "It's always going to get better," Young shared. "And I'm not going to be one of them old heads when I'm done playing, hating on the young guys that are, I mean, getting better or getting more love for certain things that, I mean, we helped kind of build, you know what I'm saying? And they've learned from us and just added a little bit of new stuff." "So I'm not going to be one of those guys, but I definitely, I feel like the women's game is always going to grow because of that reason," he story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jul 24, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Trae Young slams new Superman movie for weak portrayal of his favorite superhero
Trae Young is in the Atlanta Hawks now (Image via Getty Images) The Atlanta Hawks forward Trae Young recently made headlines as he voiced his dissatisfaction with the way Superman was portrayed in the most recent film adaptation. The NBA icon, who is well-known for being open on social media, expressed his opinions regarding the movie on X. On the other hand, he again went viral after responding to Iman Shumpert's criticism with a vicious dig. Trae Young fires back at Superman portrayal and Iman Shumpert's criticism in viral fashion Trae Young , a die-hard Superman fan, recently voiced his displeasure with the famous superhero's portrayal. He took to X on July 21 and wrote: 'These Superman movies starting to make him look weak or it's just me??? That's my favorite superhero btw I'm asking cause I'm really upset..' Superman has been regarded as a representation of power, optimism, and invincibility for many generations. However, devoted admirers like Trae Young don't like how the recent film adaptations of the character have tended towards vulnerability. On the other hand, after retaliating against a former NBA champion for offensive remarks on ESPN, the Atlanta Hawks player again made headlines. Iman Shumpert talked about Trae Young during a recent NBA Today appearance. Shump wasn't convinced that the superhero movie enthusiast could become a great NBA player. The former NBA champion specifically criticized him for reportedly being too undersized and a defensive liability for a team that wanted to win a title. Slamming the NBA star, he said: 'Trae Young statistically, what he brings to a game of basketball, I get it. At 6'3, it's tough to say can he switch onto a 5 at the end of the game, can he guard a bigger guard… Can he make a 2-guard a scoring champion?' Trae Young in action (Image via Getty Images). In response to a fan who criticized Shump for his remarks, Trae Young said that he had defeated him in their most recent matchup. Responding to the comment, he wrote: 'That's why I let them live… What I did to him on the court when we played, you'd think he'd have more respect when my name gets brought up! I could keep going… No hate this way, tho (sic).' Meanwhile, Trae Young's comment on the new Superman movie reflects a larger discussion among superhero fans over how comic book characters are changing and being reinterpreted for contemporary audiences. Also read: Trae Young reacts to $229M Atlanta Hawks update with iconic Michael Jordan Meme Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Atlanta Hawks Star Trae Young's Father Blasts ESPN and Iman Shumpert Over Harsh Contract Criticism: 'Do Your Homework'
Trae Young (Image via Getty). A recent episode of NBA Today has stirred up heated debate in the NBA world, leading to a strong response from Rayford Young , father of Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young . After ESPN aired a segment questioning Young's worthiness of a max contract, Rayford took to social media to call out both the network and analyst Iman Shumpert for what he deemed lazy, outdated analysis. ESPN Debate Questions Trae Young's Value On the July 18, 2025 edition of NBA Today, ESPN analysts discussed the future of Trae Young with the Atlanta Hawks as he becomes eligible for a contract extension. Panelists—including former NBA guard Iman Shumpert and insider Bobby Marks—debated whether Young had earned a max deal. The conversation focused heavily on Young's defensive shortcomings and whether those outweighed his elite offensive skills. Iman Shumpert, never one to shy away from blunt commentary, argued that Young's defense holds the Atlanta Hawks back, especially in the postseason: 'At 6'3', it's tough to hide him in certain switchable situations. You want your point guard to at least fight over screens, get in passing lanes, and Trae's just not there defensively. That hurts your team's ceiling.' The comments reignited an old debate about Young's perceived defensive limitations and whether he's grown enough as a two-way player to anchor a contender. Rayford Young Responds: 'Opinions Are Cheap—Facts Matter' Rayford Young, who's known for defending his son in public forums, wasn't about to let the criticism slide. On July 20, he responded on X, calling out both ESPN and Iman Shumpert directly. His frustration centered on what he viewed as a lack of updated insight into his son's development. 'If ESPN and Shumpert would do their homework, they'd see how much Trae's game has evolved. It's easy to criticize from the sideline but look at his numbers, his work ethic, and what he means to Atlanta. Opinions are cheap—facts matter.' The post quickly gained traction, with Atlanta Hawks fans rallying around the younger Young. Many pointed to his improved defensive stats, clutch postseason performances, and undeniable offensive production as proof that he's more than deserving of a max extension. The Bigger Picture: Media vs. Player Circles This isn't the first time Rayford Young has taken issue with national media portrayals of his son—and it likely won't be the last. He's long been vocal about what he sees as selective storytelling when it comes to Trae's on-court effort and off-court leadership. And ESPN, often criticized for sensationalized narratives, remains a frequent target for such backlash. Criticism of Iman Shumpert also echoed a common sentiment: that former players sometimes fall back on dated scouting reports instead of analyzing a player's actual growth. Trae Young by the Numbers - 2024-25 Season Averages: Over 25 points and 9 assists per game - Offensive Ranking: Top five in both assists and usage rate - Defensive Metrics: Improvement in defensive rating and activity; Atlanta adjusted its schemes to maximize his impact - Intangibles: Known for leadership, charity work, and strong ties to the Atlanta community The back-and-forth is more than just another sports media spat—it reflects a growing trend where players' families and local communities push back on mainstream narratives. For Atlanta Hawks fans, Rayford's response isn't just about protecting Trae—it's about demanding accuracy and depth from national analysts. Iman Shumpert has yet to reply publicly, though ESPN insiders maintained that NBA Today is a debate-driven show that encourages bold takes and differing perspectives. Also read: Stephen Curry Names $197,230,450 Memphis Grizzlies Star the Most Athletic Player in the NBA—Over His Own Teammate For now, the spotlight remains on Trae Young: whether he earns that max extension, whether his defense continues to improve, and whether national media will finally catch up with the version of him that Atlanta already sees. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Hawks Rumored to Reunite With Former All-Star Center: Insider
Hawks Rumored to Reunite With Former All-Star Center: Insider originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Atlanta Hawks aren't done with their summer transactions. After acquiring All-Star big man Kristaps Porzingis from the Boston Celtics, the Hawks have been linked to pursue a veteran free agent center. The team is making moves to give star guard Trae Young and the young core a chance to return to the playoffs. Advertisement The Hawks have missed the playoffs for the second straight year. The last time Atlanta was in the postseason was in 2023. They were eliminated in the first round by the Boston Celtics. Since then, the Hawks have tried to return to the postseason. However, the roster they've had over the past two seasons aren't competitive. This time, they have a chance to strengthen their frontcourt by potentially reuniting with Al Horford. Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson drives to the basket while Boston Celtics center Al Horford defends. Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports According to ESPN's Marc Spears, the Hawks are among the teams interested in the free agent center. Horford has yet to sign with a team and is also considering retiring from basketball. Spears also reported that the five-time All-Star was supposed to sign a deal with the Golden State Warriors last week. However, a deal did not happen. Advertisement 'Golden State, obviously, expected him to sign last week. He didn't,' the insider said. 'Lakers, Milwaukee, and Atlanta, I believe, are also interested in a nearly 40-year-old guy who also has retirement on the table. Spears revealed that Horford spends his summers in Boston and Atlanta, which is where his family is. The Hawks could have an advantage to sign him since it will keep the Dominican big man close to his wife and kids. 'He's still considering retiring; he's not in any hurry. He's got a sixth kid coming on the way, he lives in Atlanta and Boston in the offseason. But I'm hearing that whether it's Golden State and to a lesser extent the Lakers, being away from the family that far isn't going to be in that decision.' Advertisement Horford has history in Atlanta, as he was drafted by the franchise in 2007 with the third pick. He spent most of his prime years with the Hawks. In the nine years he was a part of the organization, the 6-foot-9 center averaged 14.3 points, 8.9 rebounds and 2.7 assists. The former Florida star was a four-time All-Star and a one-time All-NBA player with the Hawks. Ending his career with the team that took a chance on him would be a perfect way. Related: Hawks Among Favorites to Land $251 Million 3-Time All-Star in NBA Trade This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
'Destroying your competition': Atlanta Hawks' Trae Young sends cryptic post amid offseason break
Image credit: Getty Images Trae Young shared a cryptic tweet on Saturday that created a stir on social media. The post seemingly reflects his current frame of mind. Taking to X on Saturday, Young wrote, 'Relationships matter, but destroying your competition matters more. ' His post came just days after reports surfaced about the Atlanta Hawks star guard potentially receiving a contract extension — despite critics questioning his form and performance on the court. He remains a part of the team, although many have questioned his role and even hinted at the possibility of a trade. Fans back Trae Young An X user with the handle J5 reacted to Young's tweet, saying, 'That's the mentality I need right now. Focusing on winning above all else. Competition doesn't care about your feelings.' Another user, AI Viral Insights, commented, 'Spoken like a true competitor.' Many also pulled him down for his performance in the post season. The Atlanta Hawks have missed the playoffs in the past two seasons, and the question — has the time for a trade come? — has resurfaced. Following the team's lacklustre performances and failure to reach the postseason, fans have been slamming both the team and its players, including Young. Dyson Daniels stands in support of Trae Young Atlanta Hawks guard and Australia native Dyson Daniels recently spoke in support of Young. 'I was able to come here and play alongside Trae Young. He made my life a lot easier, and our games really complement each other — him on the offensive end, me on the defensive end helping him out. So I think for me, it's just about coming into Atlanta with the right mindset, ready to turn the page," Daniels told Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints. "I wasn't happy with how my two years went in New Orleans, so I was happy with how this year went. But I feel like I could win Most Improved Player again — that'll be another goal of mine going into [next] year,' he added. Young has also been making headlines for potentially securing a new contract — a four-year extension worth a whopping $229 million from the Atlanta Hawks. He even took to his Instagram Stories and shared a Michael Jordan meme. Also Read: Trae Young reacts to $229M Atlanta Hawks update with iconic Michael Jordan Meme Young's current contract, worth $215 million over five years, expires after the 2025–2026 season. He has been the team's ambassador since 2018, averaging 25 points and 10 assists per game. Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!
