Killian Deron Antron Hayes Bio
Killian Deron Antron Hayes is a French-American professional basketball player currently playing as a point guard for the Cleveland Charge in the NBA G League. Born on July 27, 2001, in Lakeland, Florida, Hayes developed his basketball talents in France and Germany before being drafted seventh overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2020 NBA draft. He is known for his playmaking skills and has represented France successfully at youth international tournaments.
Early Life and Background
Killian Hayes was born in Lakeland, Florida, where his father, DeRon Hayes, was playing professional basketball. One year after his birth, Hayes moved to Cholet, France, where he was raised due to his father’s basketball career in the French league. His mother, Sandrine Demiannay, is a former basketball player from Cholet, France. Hayes grew up playing basketball from an early age, often competing against older opponents and drawing inspiration from players like Dwyane Wade.
He developed his skills in the youth system of Cholet Basket, the same club where his father played professionally. Despite opportunities to join prestigious sports institutes in France, Hayes remained with Cholet, focusing on his development in the French under-21 league. He overcame personal challenges, including a period of depression, and continued to improve his game through dedication and experience.
Path to Basketball
Hayes began playing for Cholet’s senior team at age 16, making his debut in 2017. He quickly showed promise, earning MVP honors at the Jordan Brand Classic International Game and leading his team to success in the French under-21 league. His early achievements included being named MVP of the LNB Espoirs league and helping Cholet win the Trophée du Futur.
In 2019, Hayes moved to Germany to play for ratiopharm Ulm in the Basketball Bundesliga and EuroCup. There, he continued to develop his skills, posting notable performances and establishing career-high scoring games. His playmaking ability and vision on the court attracted attention from NBA scouts, leading to his declaration for the 2020 NBA draft.
Killian Hayes Career
Early Career (2017–2019)
Hayes made his professional debut with Cholet Basket in 2017 at just 16 years old. During his time with Cholet, he gradually earned more playing time and improved his statistics, averaging 7.1 points and 3.1 assists in his final season. He participated in the Basketball Without Borders camp twice, showcasing his talent among international prospects.
His performances in the French league and youth competitions earned him recognition as a top European prospect. Hayes signed a three-year professional contract with Cholet before the 2018–19 season, solidifying his place as a rising star in European basketball.
Ratiopharm Ulm Breakthrough (2019–2020)
In August 2019, Hayes signed with ratiopharm Ulm in Germany’s top league. He made an immediate impact, debuting with strong all-around performances. Hayes recorded multiple double-doubles and career-high scoring games, demonstrating his ability to contribute in points, assists, and steals. He became the second-youngest player to register a double-double in the EuroCup, highlighting his rapid development.
Throughout the 2019–20 season, Hayes averaged 11.6 points, 5.4 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game across all competitions. His playmaking and court vision were widely praised, setting the stage for his entry into the NBA.
Detroit Pistons Era (2020–2024)
Hayes was selected seventh overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2020 NBA draft and signed his rookie contract in December 2020. His rookie season was interrupted by a hip injury that sidelined him for several months. Despite this, Hayes showed flashes of his potential, recording career-high assists and points in various games.
During his tenure with the Pistons, Hayes continued to develop his game, improving his scoring and playmaking. Notable moments include a career-high 26 points with multiple rebounds and steals in a win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. In 2022, he was involved in a notable on-court incident resulting in a suspension. The Pistons waived Hayes in February 2024.
Brooklyn Nets and Cleveland Charge (2024–Present)
In 2024, Hayes signed with the Brooklyn Nets but was waived before the season started. He then joined the Long Island Nets, the Nets’ G League affiliate, and had a brief 10-day contract with Brooklyn in early 2025. Later in 2025, Hayes signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers but was waived and subsequently added to the Cleveland Charge roster in the NBA G League, where he currently plays.
Playing Style and Strengths
Hayes is a left-handed point guard standing 6 feet 5 inches tall, with above-average size for his position. He is known for his exceptional court vision and playmaking abilities, often praised for his passing off the dribble. Hayes thrives in pick-and-roll situations and operates effectively in half-court offenses. While his three-point shooting is a work in progress, he displays good shooting form and excels at shooting off the dribble. Defensively, Hayes can guard multiple perimeter positions but is more effective as an off-ball and pick-and-roll defender.
Notable Events and Milestones
Hayes earned MVP honors at the 2017 FIBA U16 European Championship, leading France to a gold medal. He also helped France secure a silver medal at the 2018 FIBA Under-17 World Cup, where he was named to the All-Star Five. His NBA career highlights include career-high scoring and assist games and a notable suspension following an on-court altercation in 2022.
Killian Hayes Career Wins
Throughout his career, Killian Hayes has accumulated notable achievements at the youth international level and professional milestones in European leagues and the NBA. His leadership and playmaking have been central to his teams’ successes in various competitions.
International and Youth Highlights
Hayes was named MVP of the 2017 FIBA U16 European Championship, averaging 16.6 points, seven rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. He led France to a gold medal in that tournament. At the 2018 FIBA Under-17 World Cup, he averaged 16.1 points and was named to the All-Star Five as France won the silver medal.
Professional Highlights
In Europe, Hayes posted multiple double-doubles and career-high scoring games with ratiopharm Ulm. In the NBA, he recorded career-high assists and points with the Detroit Pistons, showcasing his growth as a playmaker and scorer.
Killian Hayes Family
Family Background and Basketball Lineage
Killian Hayes comes from a basketball family. His father, DeRon Hayes, played college basketball at Penn State and had a professional career in multiple countries, including France. His mother, Sandrine Demiannay, is a former basketball player from France. This strong basketball lineage influenced Hayes’ early development and passion for the sport.
Personal Life
Details about Hayes’ personal life, including marital status and residence, are private. He has focused on his basketball career since a young age, overcoming challenges and dedicating himself to professional growth.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Killian Hayes signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers but was waived before the NBA season began. He was then added to the Cleveland Charge, the Cavaliers’ NBA G League affiliate. Hayes aims to leverage this opportunity to refine his skills and demonstrate his value for a potential return to the NBA. His experience across European leagues and the NBA provides a strong foundation for continued development in the 2025 season.