The moment the pick was announced, a collective roar erupted in Atlanta, a mixture of surprise and pure, unadulterated hometown pride. Asa Newell, the immensely talented forward out of the University of Georgia, was officially headed to the NBA.1 The twist? He wasn’t selected by the Atlanta Hawks at their originally slotted pick. Instead, he heard his name called at number 23 by the New Orleans Pelicans, only for the news to quickly follow: he was immediately being traded to the Atlanta Hawks.
For Newell, a native of Atlanta who had spent his formative years in Athens, this was a dream realized in the most poetic fashion – remaining at home to begin his professional basketball journey. It was a strategic move by the Hawks, who traded back from the 13th pick, sending it to the Pelicans along with the rights to Maryland’s Derik Queen, in exchange for the 23rd pick and a coveted unprotected 2026 first-round pick (the most favorable of New Orleans or Milwaukee’s). This clever maneuver allowed the Hawks to acquire a highly-regarded prospect they had coveted, while also bolstering their future draft capital.
Asa Newell’s path to the NBA has been marked by steady progression and a quiet determination that belied his five-star recruit status. Standing at 6-foot-9 with a 6-foot-11 wingspan and a solid 223 pounds, he possesses the modern NBA frame for a versatile forward.2 He spent his high school years at the prestigious Montverde Academy, where he was a teammate of other 2025 NBA Draft first-rounders like Cooper Flagg and Derik Queen, honing his skills against elite competition.3 This exposure at one of the nation’s top preparatory programs prepared him for the leap to Division I basketball.
His single season at the University of Georgia was nothing short of spectacular, especially for a freshman. Newell quickly became the Bulldogs’ unquestioned leader, averaging an impressive 15.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, while shooting an efficient 54.3% from the field.4 He led Georgia to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in a decade, a testament to his immediate impact on a program that had yearned for national relevance. He earned SEC All-Freshman Team honors and matched Anthony Edwards’ program record for SEC Freshman of the Week selections with four.5
Newell’s collegiate performance painted a clear picture of his NBA potential:
- Offensive Versatility: He proved to be a polished scorer around the rim, utilizing his athleticism for dunks and finishes in traffic. He also showcased a developing face-up game, capable of attacking off the dribble from the perimeter. While his three-point shooting (29% on 2.7 attempts per game) needs improvement, his free-throw percentage (74.8%) indicates a strong shooting foundation and touch that bodes well for his long-range development.6 He demonstrated the ability to hit mid-range jumpers and runners, showcasing a versatile scoring package that could expand with coaching.
- Athleticism and Motor: Newell plays with a relentless motor, constantly running the floor in transition, chasing offensive rebounds (averaging 3.3 offensive boards per game), and engaging defensively.7 His quick second jump allows for consistent put-backs and plays above the rim.
- Defensive Potential: With his length and mobility, Newell projects as a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions.8 He’s quick laterally, capable of switching onto perimeter players, and possesses good instincts as a help defender and rim protector (1.0 blocks per game).9 As he adds more strength to his frame, his ability to defend more physical bigs will only improve.
- Unselfishness and High IQ: Scouts lauded his unselfish play, his willingness to make the extra pass, and his overall feel for the game. He’s described as a “winning player” who consistently makes smart plays.
The trade itself was a masterclass by the Hawks’ front office. By moving back 10 spots from 13 to 23, they not only secured a player they reportedly had high on their board anyway, but also gained an unprotected first-round pick in 2026. This pick, originating from the Pelicans (or the Bucks, whichever is more favorable), could be highly valuable, especially if New Orleans continues to struggle with injuries or team performance. The Pelicans, who finished 21-61 in the 2024-25 season, could easily find themselves in the lottery again, giving the Hawks potentially two lottery picks in the 2026 draft. This offers incredible flexibility for future roster construction, whether through drafting more talent or using the picks in a trade for an established star.
For Asa Newell, joining the Hawks represents an ideal landing spot. The team, under new leadership, is looking to reshape its roster and add athleticism and versatility. Newell fits perfectly into a frontcourt that already features talents like Kristaps Porzingis, Onyeka Okongwu, and Jalen Johnson. His ability to run the floor, finish above the rim, and defend multiple positions aligns with the modern NBA game.10 While his initial role might be limited as he continues to develop his three-point shot and add strength, he provides immediate depth and long-term potential. Playing alongside playmakers like Trae Young, Newell’s rim-running and lob-threat abilities will be immediately utilized.
The Georgia ties are undeniable and add a special layer to this story. Born in Atlanta, Newell lived in Athens for the first decade of his life, with his grandmother and great-grandmother both working on the University of Georgia campus. He even attended UGA’s child development lab and took various lessons on campus, making his return to the state a true homecoming. The excitement from the Atlanta fanbase, who often share an allegiance with the Bulldogs, is palpable.
Newell’s journey is a testament to the evolving nature of the NBA Draft and team building. The Hawks’ willingness to trade back and acquire future assets while still securing a player they highly valued speaks volumes about their long-term strategy. For Newell, it’s the beginning of a new chapter, one that allows him to continue his growth in a familiar environment, surrounded by family and the eager anticipation of a fanbase ready to embrace their newest local hero. The path from Montverde to Athens, and now remaining at home in Atlanta, promises a bright future for Asa Newell as he embarks on his NBA career.
