Trae Young made a surprise courtside appearance to support Mokan Elite at the Nike EYBL event, energizing the crowd as they battled Indy Heat. The Atlanta Hawks star’s presence sparked excitement, highlighting his lasting connection with Mokan Elite and inspiring young basketball fans eager to follow in his footsteps.
Trae Young’s Enduring Connection to Mokan Elite
Young’s relationship with Mokan Elite is rooted in a championship pedigree and a shared journey of overcoming adversity. As a high school standout, Young played a pivotal role in leading Mokan Elite to the 2016 Nike EYBL Peach Jam title alongside Michael Porter Jr., with both players earning co-MVP honors for their outstanding performances.
The duo’s dominance on the AAU circuit elevated the team’s national profile and set the stage for their future NBA success.
Young’s return to support Mokan Elite highlights his importance in giving back to the programs that shaped him. As captured in a viral tweet from SLAM High School, “Trae Young just pulled up to watch his old EYBL team Mokan Elite pick up a 71-55 win over the Indy Heat”.
Trae Young just pulled up to watch his old EYBL team Mokan Elite pick up a 71-55 win over the Indy Heat 🤩🚨@NikeEYB @MokanBasketball @TheTraeYoung pic.twitter.com/JIxNvbeO1X
— SLAM HS Hoops (@SLAM_HS) May 24, 2025
Being present during games inspires players, showing them that the way from AAU to the NBA is built on hard work, hanging tough, and the backing of their community.
Mokan Elite’s win over Indy Heat, which has developed many talented players, proves the team is among the best in the EYBL. The team succeeded in showing Young’s spirit and unity, demonstrating that the program’s standards have not changed.
The Impact of Alumni Support on Grassroots Basketball
Having alumni like Young help grassroots basketball programs is extremely valuable. NBA players returning to where they started show that reaching the top is possible for those with vision and hard work. Young’s role with Mokan Elite proves that former players are able to encourage, assist and encourage those who are learning the game.
Mokan Elite’s legacy is built not just on wins but also on the development of character and leadership. As noted by Michael Porter Jr., the program’s rigorous training and emphasis on fundamentals have been described as more demanding than even some college and NBA environments.
This commitment to excellence is evident in how Mokan Elite competes—and in the pride alumni like Young take in the program’s ongoing achievements.
From an analytical perspective, Mokan Elite’s convincing win over Indy Heat demonstrates their depth, discipline, and ability to perform under pressure. With standout players like Ethan Taylor contributing significantly (11.0 ppg, 8.7 rpg in recent EYBL action), the team’s balanced attack and defensive tenacity were on full display.
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Young’s presence at an event like this helps the athletes gain more attention and opens up new possibilities for fame and admissions.
Young’s presence at the game for Mokan Elite’s big win over Indy Heat highlights how lasting the bonds grow during grassroots basketball. Not only does his presence welcome the team’s wins, but it also shows what loyalty, guidance, and community spirit look like for a leading team such as Mokan Elite.
When young stars compete in the NBA, they know greats like Young always root for them.
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