Trae Young’s impressive early shooting, including six consecutive 3-pointers, ignited the Atlanta Hawks in their victory over the San Antonio Spurs, 109-99, during Monday’s NBA action. Young finished with 36 points, surpassing the 10,000 career points mark, and contributed 13 assists.
Atlanta initially established a substantial 35-point lead, largely thanks to Young’s 10-14 field goals in the first half. However, his shooting cooled off after the break, making just 1-10, which allowed the Spurs to close the gap to 99-93.
Young acknowledged the Hawks’ strong first half but admitted they became too complacent later in the game. Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs’ towering 7-foot-3 rookie, was a key figure in the Spurs’ comeback, scoring all of his 26 points in the second half, along with 13 rebounds. His performance marked a strong return after missing a game due to a sprained ankle.
“Thankfully, we had as big a lead as we did and were able to hang on,” Young said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich praised Wembanyama’s scoring ability, especially near the basket, where he made 8-10 shots in the last quarter, helping the Spurs outscore the Hawks 33-22 in the final period. Young was relieved that Atlanta’s early lead was enough to secure the win.
“Our team has learned they need to throw the passes,” Popovich said of Wembanyama.
Dejounte Murray, a former Spurs guard rumored in trade talks, recorded 13 points and a season-high 13 rebounds for the Hawks. Atlanta had a dominant second period, scoring 11 straight points and leading by 35 at halftime.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Jeremy Sochan scored 23 points for the Spurs, and Julian Champagnie added 15 points, including five 3-pointers. Young, who had 29 points in the first half, reached 10,000 career points with a pair of free throws late in the third quarter. Jalen Johnson also stood out for Atlanta with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and six steals
“It was not on my mind at all,” Young said. “I was just trying to go out there and win and put on a show.”
The Spurs will face the Boston Celtics on Wednesday, while the Hawks will host the Orlando Magic.
