Trae Young Reveals Unique Bond With Rap Superstar on Tonight Show

Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young made a guest appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on October 28, offering fans a glimpse into his mindset heading into the new NBA season — and teasing his growing off-court profile in music and entertainment.

The two-time All-Star shared laughs with Fallon about their shared birthday and reflected on his ambitions both on and off the court. Though Young wasn’t overly talkative, his comments gave a small look at what continues to drive him: competition, culture, and connection to Atlanta.

“It’s a great day,” Young said with a grin. “Every birthday I get a message and I see it. Me and Jimmy Fallon. Same day. Great day. One day we’ll have a joint birthday party.”

Trae Young: Eyes on a Championship

As the conversation turned toward basketball, Young made it clear that his ultimate focus remains the same. “I want to win a championship, obviously,” he said, noting being the assist champion in multiple seasons is a highlight, but he’d rather win NBA championships. “It’s cool. When you do it once or twice, there’s other things you prioritize even more.”

While the Hawks have struggled to reach the same postseason heights they did during their 2021 Eastern Conference Finals run, Young remains one of the league’s most dynamic guards. Last season, he averaged 24.2 points and 11.6 assists per game, leading the league in assists, though the Hawks struggled to put together a winning season, finishing 40-42.

The Hawks’ success this year will hinge on whether Young can help steer the team back into contention under head coach Quin Snyder, who begins his first full season at the helm.

From Ice Trae to the Studio

One of the interview’s most lighthearted moments came when Young discussed his connection with rapper Quavo, a fellow Atlanta icon and longtime supporter. The two recently collaborated on a Billboard feature that saw them “switch lives” — with Quavo trying his hand on the hardwood and Young getting a turn in the recording studio.

“Recorded a song with Quavo,” Young said. “We did it for Billboard. We were able to switch lives. I was able to see how he made a song. He welcomed me to Atlanta from Day One. He’s like a big brother.”

It’s not the first time Young has been tied to the music scene. His nickname “Ice Trae” became popular after Quavo shouted him out in Migos’ 2018 song Ice Tray — a moment that helped solidify the Hawks star’s connection to Atlanta’s hip-hop identity.

What’s Next for Trae Young

Young’s appearance on The Tonight Show served as a reminder of how far his influence stretches beyond basketball. But as he made clear, winning remains the top priority.

“It’s cool,” Young said with a small smile. “But I want to win. That’s what it’s about.”

The Atlanta Hawks have got out to a slow start this season, but have a favorable two-game stretch coming up, matching up against the Brooklyn Nets and Indiana Pacers as they try to get back on track.

See the full interview in the YouTube video below.

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