BREAKING: Oklahoma Basketball Hires Trae Young as Assistant General Manager; Young Donates $1M to the Sooners

In a stunning development for college basketball and the University of Oklahoma, NBA star and Oklahoma alum Trae Young has been hired as an Assistant General Manager for the Sooners’ basketball program. Young, who made the announcement via ESPN NBA, will also be donating $1 million to his alma mater, further solidifying his deep-rooted connection to Oklahoma basketball.

This move is not only a major win for the Sooners but also a significant milestone for college basketball, as one of the NBA’s brightest stars takes on a front-office role while still actively playing in the league. Young’s influence, experience, and financial commitment will provide Oklahoma with a tremendous boost, both on and off the court.

Trae Young’s Journey: From Sooner Star to NBA Superstar

Before becoming one of the NBA’s most electrifying players, Trae Young was the face of Oklahoma basketball during the 2017–18 season. Hailing from Norman, Oklahoma, Young was a five-star recruit and chose to stay home to play for the Sooners, instantly transforming the program.

In his lone season at Oklahoma, Young put up historic numbers, leading the nation in both points (27.4 PPG) and assists (8.7 APG) per game. His deep three-pointers, elite court vision, and clutch performances made him a household name, and he quickly became one of the most talked-about players in college basketball.

His incredible freshman campaign led to him being selected as the 5th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks, who then traded him to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Luka Dončić. Since then, Young has emerged as one of the NBA’s premier point guards, earning multiple All-Star selections and leading the Hawks to deep playoff runs.

Despite his success at the professional level, Young has never forgotten his Oklahoma roots. His commitment to the Sooners, both as a donor and now as an Assistant General Manager, speaks volumes about his dedication to giving back to the program that helped launch his career.

Why Oklahoma? Young’s Commitment to His Alma Mater

Trae Young’s decision to join Oklahoma’s basketball program in an Assistant GM role is significant for several reasons. While it is rare for an active NBA player to take on such a front-office position in the college ranks, Young has made it clear that he wants to help shape the future of the program.

Here are some key reasons behind his decision:

1. Player Development & Recruiting

As one of the biggest names in basketball, Young’s presence will be a game-changer for recruiting. Young’s ability to mentor players, share his knowledge, and provide guidance on what it takes to succeed at the college and professional levels will be invaluable.

His reputation as one of the best guards in the world will make Oklahoma a more attractive destination for elite high school recruits and transfer portal prospects. Young’s involvement in player development could also help Sooners guards refine their skills and prepare for the next level.

2. Building Oklahoma into a National Contender

Oklahoma has a rich basketball history but has struggled to compete consistently at the highest level. By stepping into a front-office role, Young aims to help the Sooners compete with powerhouse programs like Kansas, Baylor, and Texas.

With his NBA experience and deep basketball IQ, Young will bring a fresh perspective to team-building, player scouting, and program strategy. His $1 million donation also provides Oklahoma with resources that could be used for facility upgrades, recruiting efforts, or NIL initiatives to support student-athletes.

3. Strengthening the Connection Between College and the NBA

As an active NBA player, Young can provide Oklahoma with a direct pipeline to the league. His relationships with NBA coaches, scouts, and executives will be invaluable for Sooners players who aspire to make the jump to the professional ranks.

Young’s network and influence can also help Oklahoma schedule high-profile matchups, attract top-tier coaching staff, and boost the program’s national visibility.

Impact on Oklahoma Basketball: A New Era Begins

With Trae Young now in the front office, the Sooners are entering a new era of basketball. His involvement will have a ripple effect on multiple aspects of the program, from recruiting and player development to fundraising and marketing.

1. Recruiting: Oklahoma Becomes a Destination School

Young’s star power alone makes Oklahoma a more attractive program for recruits. Players who want to learn from an NBA All-Star and elite playmaker will now consider Oklahoma more seriously.

His NBA connections could also help secure high-profile transfer portal additions, as players looking for guidance on making the league will see Young as a mentor.

2. Boosting the NIL Landscape

In today’s college basketball world, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals play a significant role in recruiting. Young’s $1 million donation could help strengthen Oklahoma’s NIL opportunities, making it a more competitive program in the high-stakes recruiting battles for top talent.

3. Marketing & Branding: Oklahoma Basketball Gains National Attention

Having Young in an executive role immediately elevates Oklahoma’s brand. His popularity will bring increased media attention, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket sales, all of which benefit the program.

Oklahoma basketball will now have one of the most recognizable figures in the sport actively involved in decision-making. This move puts the Sooners on the map and could attract even more NBA players to take on advisory roles at their alma maters.

Final Thoughts: Trae Young’s Influence Extends Beyond the Court

Trae Young’s decision to become Assistant General Manager at Oklahoma is a monumental moment for both the Sooners and college basketball as a whole. It marks a rare instance of an active NBA player stepping into a major front-office role while still competing at the highest level.

His impact will be immediate and long-lasting—from improving recruiting and player development to elevating Oklahoma’s national profile. His $1 million donation further demonstrates his commitment to seeing the program succeed.

For Sooners fans, this is a historic moment that signals Oklahoma basketball is serious about competing at an elite level. With Young’s knowledge, leadership, and resources, the future looks brighter than ever for the Sooners.

As Young balances his NBA career with his new role at Oklahoma, all eyes will be on how he helps transform the program into a powerhouse. One thing is certain—his impact on Oklahoma basketball is just beginning.