Saddiq Bey: Rising Star of the Atlanta Hawks

Saddiq Bey has quickly become one of the most promising young players in the NBA.

Player Profile:

Number: 41

Team: Atlanta Hawks

Position: SF/PF/SG

Height: 6’7″ (2.01m)

Weight: 215lb (98kg)

Birthdate (age): April 9, 1999 (24 years)

As a key member of the Atlanta Hawks, Bey’s versatile skillset and rapid development have made him an invaluable asset to the team.

This article will explore various aspects of Bey’s career, from his contract details to his playing style and future potential.

Saddiq Bey’s Journey to the NBA

Saddiq Bey was born on April 9, 1999, in Harlem, New York City. Basketball runs in his family, with both of his parents having played the sport in college.

Bey’s upbringing included summers spent in the Ivory Coast, where he became fluent in French.

Bey’s college career at Villanova University was marked by significant growth and achievement. In his two seasons with the Wildcats, he showcased his potential as a versatile forward with a strong shooting touch. His sophomore year was particularly impressive, as he averaged:

  • 2022-2023: $2,889,720
  • 2023-2024: $25,782,032
  • 2024-2025: $26,257,284
  • 2025-2026: $26,732,536
  • 2026-2027: $22,337,428 (Player Option)

These numbers, combined with his defensive abilities, caught the attention of NBA scouts and set the stage for his entry into the professional ranks.

The 2020 NBA Draft saw Saddiq Bey selected as the 19th overall pick by the Detroit Pistons.

This selection proved to be a steal for the Pistons, as Bey quickly outperformed expectations for a mid-first-round pick.

His ability to contribute immediately, particularly with his three-point shooting, made him stand out among his draft class.

Saddiq Bey’s Professional Career

Saddiq Bey’s path to the NBA was marked by standout performances at Villanova University, where he honed his skills as a versatile forward with a sharp shooting touch.

His impressive college career culminated in being selected 19th overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2020 NBA Draft, setting the stage for his rapid rise as one of the league’s most promising young talents.

Bey’s transition to the NBA was smooth, with the young forward making an immediate impact. In his rookie season with the Pistons, he set a franchise record by making at least five three-pointers in three of his first ten NBA games.

  • 16.1 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 2.4 APG
  • Shot 45% FG, 43% 3PT, 77% FT

This early success was a sign of things to come, as Bey continued to develop and refine his game.

In October 2022, Bey’s potential and performance were rewarded with a significant contract extension. The details of his agreement with the Atlanta Hawks are as follows:

  • 4-year contract worth $75 million, extending through the 2026-2027 season
  • 2022-2023 salary: $2,889,720
  • 2023-2024 salary: $25,782,032
  • 2024-2025 salary: $26,257,284
  • 2025-2026 salary: $26,732,536
  • 2026-2027 salary: $22,337,428 (Player Option)

This contract represents excellent value for the Hawks, securing a young, developing talent at a reasonable price relative to his potential and production.

In his first full season with the Atlanta Hawks, Bey has continued to impress. His statistical output for the 2023-2024 season includes:

  • 14.3 points per game
  • 5.9 rebounds per game
  • 2.7 assists per game
  • 45.2% field goal percentage
  • 28 minutes per game

These numbers reflect Bey’s growing importance to the Hawks’ rotation and his ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories.

Saddiq Bey’s Physical and Athletic Profile

Saddiq Bey's Physical and Athletic Profile

Standing at 6’7″ with a 7’0″ wingspan, Saddiq Bey possesses an ideal frame for a modern NBA forward, combining length with a sturdy 215-pound build.

His physical attributes, including a 33-inch vertical leap, enable him to be effective on both ends of the court, allowing for versatile defensive assignments and creating mismatches on offense.

Saddiq Bey possesses an ideal physical profile for a modern NBA forward:

  • Height: 6’7″ (2.01m)
  • Weight: 215 lbs (98 kg)
  • Wingspan: 7’0″
  • Standing reach: 8’7.5″
  • Max vertical: 33″

These attributes allow Bey to be effective on both ends of the court.

His length and strength enable him to guard multiple positions, while his size and shooting ability make him a threat on offense.

Bey Represents the Ideal Modern Forward

Saddiq Bey embodies the traits that NBA teams covet in contemporary forwards.

His combination of size, shooting ability, and defensive versatility make him a valuable asset in today’s positionless basketball landscape. Bey’s skillset includes:

  • Excellent three-point shooting
  • Ability to guard multiple positions
  • Solid rebounding
  • Developing playmaking skills

These attributes allow Bey to fit seamlessly into various lineups and playing styles, making him an ideal complement to ball-dominant guards like Trae Young and Dejounte Murray.

Saddiq Bey Personal Bio and Other Interesting Facts

Beyond his on-court abilities, Saddiq Bey is known for his character and interests off the court:

  • Born and raised in Harlem, New York City
  • Speaks fluent French due to summers spent in the Ivory Coast
  • Credits his Villanova experience for his strong defensive fundamentals
  • Enjoys listening to rap and hip-hop music in his free time
  • Motivated by providing for his family and being a positive role model

Bey’s commitment to his family and community involvement in Atlanta demonstrates his maturity and character, traits that are highly valued by NBA organizations.

Other Atlanta Hawks Players

Saddiq Bey is part of an exciting young core in Atlanta. Key players alongside Bey include:

  • Dejounte Murray – All-Star guard, elite playmaker
  • Clint Capela – Athletic rim-protecting center
  • Hunter / Griffin – Forwards with two-way potential

This group forms the foundation of a Hawks team aiming to compete at the highest levels in the Eastern Conference.

Alternative NBA Small Forward/Power Forward/Shooting Guards

Alternative NBA Small ForwardPower ForwardShooting Guards

To contextualize Bey’s role and potential, it’s useful to compare him to similar players in the league:

  • OG Anunoby: Known for elite defense and improving offensive game
  • Michael Porter Jr.: Sharpshooting forward with size and scoring ability
  • Mikal Bridges: Two-way wing with excellent 3-and-D skills
  • Dorian Finney-Smith: Versatile defender with solid three-point shooting

These players represent the archetype of the modern NBA wing, combining length, defensive versatility, and three-point shooting ability.

Saddiq Bey’s Defensive Versatility Makes Him a Matchup Proof Piece

One of Bey’s most valuable attributes is his defensive versatility. His combination of size, strength, and mobility allows him to guard multiple positions effectively. This versatility is evidenced by:

  • Ability to switch onto smaller, quicker guards
  • Strength to defend larger forwards in the post
  • Smart help defense and rotations
  • Ranking 8th among qualified forwards in Defensive RPM at +1.32

Bey’s defensive prowess allows the Hawks to employ flexible defensive schemes and matchups, enhancing the team’s overall defensive capabilities.

Saddiq Bey’s Work Ethic & Character Breed Optimism

Bey’s approach to the game and his personal character have drawn praise from coaches, teammates, and scouts alike. His work ethic is evident in:

  • Consistent improvement in shooting percentages and overall efficiency
  • Leadership qualities both on and off the court
  • Quick integration into the Hawks’ locker room culture

These traits suggest that Bey will continue to maximize his potential and contribute positively to the Hawks’ team culture.

Trajectory Points Towards Borderline All-Star Production

Based on his current trajectory and skill development, many analysts believe Bey has the potential to reach borderline All-Star status in the coming years. Comparisons to players like Kawhi Leonard and Khris Middleton at similar stages in their careers support this optimism:

Saddiq BeyKawhi LeonardKhris Middleton
14.3 PPG (Year 3)11.9 PPG (Year 3)12.1 PPG (Year 3)
45.2% FG49.3% FG39.1% FG
40.6% 3PT37.6% 3PT31.1% 3PT

While Bey may not reach the superstar levels of Leonard, his production and efficiency suggest he could develop into a high-impact player similar to Middleton.

FAQs

Bey primarily plays as a small forward but can also fill in at power forward or shooting guard due to his versatility.

Saddiq Bey stands at 6’7″ (2.01m) tall.

Bey played college basketball at Villanova University for two seasons.

In the 2023-2024 season, Bey is shooting 40.6% from three-point range.

Saddiq Bey was drafted 19th overall in the first round of the 2020 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons.

Conclusion

Saddiq Bey’s rapid ascension in the NBA is a testament to his skill, work ethic, and adaptability.

From his strong college career at Villanova to his immediate impact in the NBA, Bey has consistently shown the ability to contribute at a high level.

His combination of three-point shooting, defensive versatility, and steady improvement make him an ideal fit for the modern NBA game.

As a key piece of the Atlanta Hawks’ young core, Bey’s continued development will be crucial to the team’s success.

His current contract provides excellent value for the Hawks, and his trajectory suggests he could become a borderline All-Star in the coming years.

With his strong character, work ethic, and diverse skill set, Saddiq Bey represents not just the future of the Atlanta Hawks, but also the prototype of the modern NBA forward.

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