Joe Young is back competing in the NBA G-League for the first time since the 2017 season and what an impact he made for the Birmingham Squadron in his return.
Young, who was drafted by the Kings in the G-League draft and then dealt to Birmingham prior to training camp, led the Squadron to an exciting 128-117 win over the Greensboro Swarm.
History makers
Young recorded 30 points, four assists and one steal in the 36 minutes he was on the floor.
The versatile guard was the Squadron's game second leading scorer, right behind Jared Harper who had an impressive 35-point performance.
This was the franchise's first ever win in the NBA G-League.
G Jared Harper finished the contest with 35 points, matching his G League career high.
— Birmingham Squadron (@GleagueSquadron) November 6, 2021
The Squadron has seven players score in double digits, including Harper's 35 and 30 from G Joe Young.
Silence the noise
There was a lot of excitement coming into the game, considering LiAngelo Ball was selected by the Swarm with the 14th overall pick this year.
Although Ball scored 22 points off the bench, Young, Harper and the rest of the Squadron made sure to leave no doubt who was the better team on the floor. The former Auburn star JT Thor led the Swarm with 34 points and 12 rebounds.
This victory also summed up the importance of team play and depth with the Squadron having seven players score in the double digits.
The Squadron are expected to have a solid season in the G-League considering the team has some players with NBA experience despite being such a young group.