SALT LAKE CITY — Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks made a game-winning play in the closing moments of their match against the Utah Jazz, delivering a stunning 49-foot three-pointer just before the final buzzer sounded. This dramatic shot clinched a 124-121 victory for the Hawks on Tuesday night, concluding a performance where Young recorded 24 points and 20 assists while limiting his turnovers to just two.
The thrilling victory was set up by a clutch three-pointer from Collin Sexton of the Jazz, which tied the score four seconds prior. Reflecting on the closing seconds, Young expressed his belief in his team’s ability to score at any moment. “When there’s time left, I always feel like we can score,” he stated, demonstrating his confidence in high-pressure situations.
As the franchise leader for the Hawks in assists and made three-pointers, Young showcased his exceptional ability to command the game. He dished out seven assists before making his first basket early in the second quarter, leading Atlanta to a substantial 16-point advantage in the first half. However, Utah fought back to create a fiercely contested finish to the match.
Young emphasized his role as a facilitator on the court. “This is part of what I do,” he remarked. “I always get guys involved, always been able to find people. I feel like I’m the kind of guy who can pass you open. You don’t just have to be open for me to get you the ball. I can see things and get you into a good spot.” His highlights during the final stretch of the game underscored his capabilities as a playmaker.
Following the Jazz momentarily seizing a 114-113 lead with back-to-back dunks from Walker Kessler, Young quickly responded. He sank a step-back three-pointer to reclaim the lead and assisted De’Andre Hunter for another three-pointer shortly after. Young then added two crucial free throws with just 8.8 seconds remaining, sealing the game for Atlanta.
Hawks coach Quin Snyder praised Young’s awareness and efficiency in gameplay, noting, “He has taken a lot of pride in being efficient and knowing when it is time to give the ball up and when it’s time to impress himself on the game from a scoring standpoint.”
When it came time for the buzzer-beater, Young barely needed to dribble, opting for a swift shot from beyond halfcourt. He was confident in the trajectory of the ball from the moment he received the inbounds pass. “I knew we had three seconds,” he recalled. “I could take a couple of dribbles and be closer to halfcourt and then I made sure I used my legs and put some air into the ball and that was important.”
