In a significant development for college basketball, the University of Oklahoma (OU) has appointed former Sooners star and current Atlanta Hawks point guard, Trae Young, as the Assistant General Manager for its men’s basketball program. Announced on March 31, 2025, this move underscores Young’s enduring commitment to his alma mater and his hometown of Norman, Oklahoma.
A Homegrown Talent Returns
Trae Young’s basketball journey is deeply rooted in Norman. As a standout at Norman North High School, he earned McDonald’s All-American honors and was a coveted five-star recruit. Choosing to stay close to home, Young played for the Sooners during the 2017-2018 season, where he made history by leading the nation in both scoring (27.4 points per game) and assists (8.7 per game). His exceptional performance garnered him first-team All-American honors and set the stage for his professional career.
New Role and Responsibilities
In his capacity as assistant general manager, the 26-year-old NBA All-Star will undertake several key responsibilities:
- Player Evaluation: Assessing high school prospects and transfer portal candidates to bolster the team’s roster.
- Strategic Planning: Collaborating on roster management strategies to enhance team performance.
- Brand Development: Assisting student-athletes in building and maximizing their personal brands, an increasingly vital aspect in the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities.
- Fundraising Initiatives: Supporting university efforts to secure resources that will further elevate the men’s basketball program.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Young stated, “As someone who grew up in Norman and played at the University of Oklahoma, stepping into the role of assistant GM for OU Basketball is a huge honor. This program has such a rich history, which I am fortunate to have been and continue to be a part of.”
Financial Commitment to the Program
Demonstrating his dedication, Young has pledged a $1 million donation to support the Sooners’ men’s basketball program. This generous contribution is aimed at fostering a culture of excellence and providing resources necessary for the team’s success. OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione lauded Young’s commitment, noting, “He has a strong affinity for this place and his commitment to ensuring our community is a thriving one is truly unmatched.”
Balancing Professional and Administrative Roles
Despite his new administrative duties, Young remains an active player for the Atlanta Hawks, where he leads the NBA in assists this season. His decision to take on this role while continuing his professional career highlights a growing trend among NBA players seeking to influence and contribute to collegiate athletics. Notably, Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry accepted a similar position as assistant general manager for Davidson College earlier this year.
Conclusion
Trae Young’s appointment as assistant general manager for OU men’s basketball signifies a heartfelt return to his roots and a profound investment in the future of the program. His blend of on-court excellence and off-court leadership is poised to inspire current and future Sooners, reinforcing the university’s commitment to fostering talent and achieving athletic success.
