Trae Young was a fan of the Atlanta Hawks‘ selection of Asa Newell in the NBA draft, and the All-Star has been particularly impressed with his disposition and mindset.
Newell was the 23rd pick after averaging 15.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, one steal and one block on 54.3% shooting from the field last season at Georgia. He was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team, ranking 20th in the country in offensive rebounds (110).
The Georgia native spent his junior and senior years of high school at the Montverde Academy in Central Florida, helping the team to a title alongside the likes of Cooper Flagg, Liam McNeeley and Derik Queen. Young appreciates the experience Newell brings to the team.
The reason why I liked him coming out was just because of his background and history of playing at Montverde. Obviously, being in Georgia is exciting, too, that he got to stay home, but going to Montverde, I almost went there my senior year, so I understand what type of player they recruit; they don’t recruit everybody. For him to even go there and be able to sacrifice and do whatever he needed to do to win a national championship, I think that shows the type of character he has. I was excited to have somebody like that because I know we can get along, and I know he just wants to win and will do whatever it takes to win.
Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh said after the draft that the team was intrigued with his skill set and ability to make winning plays on the court. Newell made a name for himself on the offensive glass with his size, mobility and athleticism.
The 6-foot-10 forward had an up-and-down preseason, averaging 7.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.2 blocks and one assist on 40.7% shooting from the field in four appearances. But he showcased his ability with a double-double on Oct. 13 with 19 points and eight rebounds.
“I think he competes consistently,” Hawks coach Quin Snyder said. “It is a unique thing when you’re just wired that way. I think in addition to that, his ability to process the game quickly for a young guy. He makes quick decisions. He has got good instincts. Those are things that are hard to teach. … I think the competitiveness that he has had day in and day out, whether it be in practice or open-gym games, has been something that, when you have those things, it really gives you the best opportunity to get better.”
Newell had his first opportunity to contribute for Snyder and the Hawks, earning spot minutes in the fourth quarter of a comeback win over the Orlando Magic on Friday. He recorded five points down the stretch to help the Hawks overcome a 12-point deficit in the period.
The 20-year-old knows he could see sporadic playing time this season, but is working daily to be prepared for when his name is called. He wants to showcase that trait each time he steps onto the floor, which he credits his brother, Jaden, for helping develop.
“It just came playing in the driveway, playing with my brother, you know?” Newell said. “Having an older brother really helps, always pushing each other to be the best.”