### Atlanta Hawks Make Strategic Move in 2025 NBA Draft by Selecting Hometown Star Asa Newell The Atlanta Hawks made headlines during the 2025 NBA Draft by selecting Asa Newell, a standout from the University of Georgia, with the 23rd overall pick. This decision not only reflects the team's commitment to enhancing their frontcourt depth but also marks a significant moment for Newell, who has deep ties to Atlanta, having grown up as a fan of the Hawks. The Hawks' strategy involved trading down from the 13th pick to acquire additional future draft capital, which could prove beneficial in the long run. This move is seen as a calculated risk that could pay off, especially given the potential value of the unprotected 2026 first-round pick acquired in the trade with the New Orleans Pelicans [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_get_steal_of_the_draft_with_asa_newell_pick_after_genius_trade/s1_17201_42377121]. ### Breakdown of the Hawks' Draft Strategy and Selection 1. **Draft Trade Dynamics**: - The Hawks traded their 13th pick to the New Orleans Pelicans for the 23rd pick and an unprotected 2026 first-round pick [https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2025/06/26/hawks-draft-georgias-asa-newell-2025-nba-draft]. - This trade was strategic, allowing the Hawks to gain future assets while still selecting a promising player. 2. **Selection of Asa Newell**: - Newell was chosen due to his impressive collegiate performance, averaging 15.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and showcasing defensive versatility [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_trade_down_select_georgia_big_man_at_no_23/s1_14822_42376691]. - His local ties and familiarity with the Hawks' culture make him a fitting addition to the team [https://www.ajc.com/sports/2025/06/things-aligned-right-for-the-hawks-asa-newell-to-land-in-atlanta]. 3. **Future Implications**: - The unprotected pick from the Pelicans could be valuable, especially if New Orleans struggles in the upcoming season [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_get_steal_of_the_draft_with_asa_newell_pick_after_genius_trade/s1_17201_42377121]. - The Hawks are looking to build a competitive roster around stars like Trae Young, and Newell's addition could enhance their frontcourt depth significantly [https://www.fox5atlanta.com/sports/nba-draft-atlanta-hawks-georgia-asa-newell]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Asa Newell's College Performance**: - Points per game: **15.4** - Rebounds per game: **6.9** - Shooting percentages: **54.3% FG, 29.2% 3PT, 74.8% FT** [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_trade_down_select_georgia_big_man_at_no_23/s1_14822_42376691]. - **Trade Details**: - Original pick: **13th** - New pick: **23rd** - Additional asset: **Unprotected 2026 first-round pick** [https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2025/06/26/hawks-draft-georgias-asa-newell-2025-nba-draft]. ### Conclusion: A Calculated Risk with Potential Rewards In summary, the Atlanta Hawks' decision to draft Asa Newell at the 23rd pick represents a blend of strategic foresight and local connection. 1. **Strategic Trade**: The trade down from 13 to 23 allowed the Hawks to secure future assets while still selecting a promising player. 2. **Local Talent**: Newell's background as a Georgia native and his strong collegiate performance make him a valuable addition to the team. 3. **Future Outlook**: The unprotected pick from the Pelicans could yield significant benefits if New Orleans underperforms, enhancing the Hawks' long-term strategy. Overall, the Hawks are positioning themselves for both immediate and future success, making this draft a pivotal moment in their ongoing development [https://www.ajc.com/sports/2025/06/georgia-product-asa-newell-taken-by-the-atlanta-hawks-in-the-first-round-of-the-2025-nba-draft].