The Matchups Are Set for the NBA Cup Semifinals
Eastern Conference: Atlanta Hawks vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Western Conference: Houston Rockets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
The Atlanta Hawks, led by their star guard Trae Young, delivered a stunning performance to defeat the New York Knicks 108-100 in the NBA Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday night. The victory not only sent the Hawks to the semifinals in Las Vegas but also reinforced Young’s knack for silencing the Madison Square Garden crowd—a skill he’s become infamous for over the years. To the offensive chants against his name, he responded with action.
Playoff Atmosphere at MSG
The intensity of the NBA Cup was palpable, as fans witnessed a game that felt more like a playoff showdown than a mid-season tournament. When asked about the added pressure, intensity and spice the Cup brings, Young acknowledged the unique ambiance it creates. “It brings a different environment, a different energy,” he said postgame. “The stakes and what the Cup brings juice everybody up a little bit more. That’s why these games are so fun and so intense.”
The Hawks’ victory wasn’t just about Young’s contributions, though his 22 points and 11 assists were pivotal. De’Andre Hunter and Jalen Johnson outshone the Knicks’ frontcourt, with Hunter scoring 24 points and Johnson adding 21 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists. Their collective effort allowed Atlanta to erase a 12-point deficit and dominate the second half.
The Crowd Factor
Madison Square Garden, notorious for its hostile reception of Young, was no different Wednesday night. Reflecting on the chants directed at him with the f. word, Young admitted with nonchalance, “I didn’t hear it until later in the game when I was shooting free throws… The elimination part makes it even more exciting and intense for not only me but everybody.”
Despite the crowd’s attempts to rattle him, Young’s focus remained unshaken. He emphasized his mental preparedness: “The crowd can only do so much. They can’t guard me, they can’t block my shot. As a player, you just focus on what’s in the lines and trust the work you’ve put in.”
From MSG to Las Vegas
The win advanced Atlanta to the semifinals, where they’ll face the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks. The Hawks, initially considered underdogs, have proven their mettle by knocking out both the defending champion Boston Celtics and the league-leading Cleveland Cavaliers during group play.
Giving Back Off the Court
Beyond his on-court heroics, Young also highlighted his work with the Trae Young Family Foundation. Centered on mental health and supporting underprivileged children, the foundation offers resources and activities to help young people navigate their struggles. “It’s all about giving back to the kids,” Young said. “Focusing on mental health and giving them resources that help them get away from whatever struggles they’re going through.”
Western Conference Semis
In the Western Conference, the Houston Rockets—who defeated the Golden State Warriors 91-90 on Wednesday night—will face the Oklahoma City Thunder, victors over the Dallas Mavericks in the other quarterfinal. See you in Las Vegas for Saturday’s semifinals.
