Trae Young’s Atlanta Hawks didn’t get a win on Friday night, but he entered into some pretty exclusive history in an epic four-overtime loss to the Chicago Bulls. Young had a number of big shots down the stretch and appeared to have hit the game-winning three before the Bulls forced overtime in a 168-161 shootout.
The rookie sharpshooter forced a second overtime with a game-tying layup with seconds left in the first extra session, and he finished with 49 points, 16 assists and 8 rebounds on the night. He was brilliant, even in a loss, and another big statistical performance had plenty of people talking. Young was the first rookie 45 points and 15 assists in a game, and he also tied LeBron James’ record for most 30-point, 10-assist games as a rookie.
Young was asked about the mark after the game and said it was “humbling” to be in the same conversation as a player like James.
"I trust in my ability. I trust in the work I put in."
Trae Young reacts to his 49-point, 16-assist night.@ATLHawks | #TrueToAtlanta pic.twitter.com/HvDxcp4UG4
— Bally Sports: Hawks (@HawksOnBally) March 2, 2019
“Being in a conversation with a guy like LeBron is humbling. It’s an honor,” James said. “At the same time, I’m trying to leave my own mark.”
Young has had an up and down rookie campaign but made it clear that his confidence hasn’t waned. And games like the one — and the shots that fell in big moments — are a result.
“I trust my ability. I trust the work I put in,” Young said. “I’m going to make a lot in my career. That was one of those moments I just wanted to make a play for my team and try to get a win.”
