Asa Newell on Hawks Selection: “Coming Home Feels Surreal”

Asa Newell, the former forward for the University of Georgia Bulldogs, faced the media following his introductory press conference on Friday, June 27, 2025. This event took place at the Hawks' practice facility within the Emory Sports Medicine Complex in Brookhaven.Just before Newell joined Atlanta Hawks General Manager Onsi Saleh and veteran broadcaster Bob Rathbun on stage, all-star guard Trae Young settled into a front-row seat. The two players exchanged greetings post-conference.“It's like starring in a Disney movie,” Newell remarked, expressing his enthusiasm about being drafted by his hometown team. He conveyed his gratitude and eagerness to start working.Standing at 6-11, Newell started all 33 games for the Bulldogs last season, averaging 15.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and one block per game. Saleh praised Newell as a vital addition to the team's culture. When asked about player comparisons, Newell cited Chris Bosh, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Aaron Gordon as models of his playing style, demonstrating promising potential as he steps into his professional career.