Trae Young is one of the most recognizable point guards in the NBA, known for his elite shooting and playmaking. Fans often wonder about his family background, especially whether he has a brother who has played in the league.
This article breaks down Trae Young’s family connections, his brother’s presence in professional basketball, and how growing up with a sibling shaped his career path.
| Name | Relationship | NBA Experience | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trae Young | Older brother | Yes, drafted 5th overall in 2018 by Atlanta Hawks | Active, Atlanta Hawks |
| Michael Young Jr. | Younger brother | Undrafted, played in G League and overseas | Free agent / Overseas |
Trae Young’s Family Background
Parents and Upbringing
Trae Young was raised in Norman, Oklahoma, by his parents, Michael Young Sr. and Rhonda Young. Basketball was a central focus of his household, with his father coaching him from an early age.
Growing up, he had a younger brother, Michael Young Jr., who was born a few years later and also gravitated toward the game. Their backyard drills and competitive one-on-ones helped shape Trae’s relentless skill set.
Does Trae Young Have a Brother in the NBA
Michael Young Jr.’s Basketball Journey
Unlike his older brother, Michael Young Jr. did not take the same straight path to the NBA. After playing college basketball at TCU, he entered the 2022 NBA Draft but went undrafted.
He later signed a two-way contract with the Brooklyn Nets and spent time with their G League affiliate. While he has not secured a permanent NBA roster spot, he continues pursuing opportunities in professional basketball.
Sibling Rivalry and Motivation
Training Together and Pushing Each Other
Trae has mentioned in interviews that growing up with a brother who also played at a high level created a motivating environment. The pair often competed in shooting contests and scrimmages that sharpened both of their games.
This competition pushed Trae to refine his shot off the catch and improve his decision-making under pressure, traits that are evident in his current scoring and playmaking abilities.
Family Influence on Trae Young’s Career
Support System and Draft Preparation
Having a brother who shared the same goals helped Trae stay grounded during the recruiting and draft process. Their father’s coaching background combined with the sibling bond provided a strong support system.
This network allowed Trae to confidently enter the 2018 NBA draft, where the Oklahoma City Thunder selected him with the fifth overall pick. The Young family’s emphasis on discipline and preparation remains a cornerstone of his approach.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Trae Young has a younger brother, Michael Young Jr., who has basketball experience but not in the NBA.
- The sibling relationship has been a source of motivation and disciplined training for Trae.
- Family support played a significant role in Trae’s development and draft readiness.
- Understanding Trae’s background helps explain his work ethic and competitive mindset.
The Young Brothers’ Professional Basketball Paths
Comparing the careers of Trae Young and Michael Young Jr. highlights how different opportunities and decisions shape a player’s journey.
| Metric | Trae Young | Michael Young Jr. |
|---|---|---|
| College | University of Oklahoma | Texas Christian University (TCU) |
| NBA Draft Year | 2018 | 2022 |
| Draft Position | 5th overall | Undrafted |
| NBA Experience | Multiple All-Star selections, franchise player | Preseason/game contract, G League and overseas |
FAQ
Reader questions
Does Trae Young have a brother who also played college basketball?
Yes, Trae Young has a younger brother, Michael Young Jr., who played college basketball at TCU.
Has Michael Young Jr. ever played in the NBA regular season?
Michael Young Jr. has not played in an NBA regular season game. He has appeared in preseason games and spent time in the G League.
Are Trae Young and his brother still in touch and training together?
Yes, the Young brothers remain close and continue to train together when schedules allow, using their shared history to stay motivated.
Did their father coach both Trae and Michael in basketball?
Their father, Michael Young Sr., coached Trae extensively during his youth and provided guidance that helped shape his professional career.