Following in the footsteps of legends like Yao Ming and Wang Zhizhi, 20-year-old Chinese center Yang Hansen has officially wrapped up his first chapter in the NBA, and what a ride it's been! 🌟
Drafted 16th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2025 NBA Draft, the 2.16-meter phenom has spent the last year navigating the jump from the Qingdao Eagles in the CBA to the brightest lights in basketball. With 43 regular-season games under his belt and a playoff run that ended in a tough battle against the San Antonio Spurs, Yang has officially proven he belongs on the big stage.
Real Life or Video Game? 🎮
For any hoop fan, stepping onto an NBA court is a dream, but for Yang, it sometimes felt surreal. He admitted to being a bit "starstruck" early on. "During a pre-season game, when I saw Stephen Curry running and shooting on the court from the sideline, it felt like I was playing a video game," he laughed. "There was a sense of unreality."
The Grind and the Growth 🌱
It wasn't all glamour and glitz, though. Yang spent some time with Portland's G League affiliate, the Rip City Remix. While some might see a G League stint as a step back, the former CBA Rookie and Defensive Player of the Year took it as a challenge. He viewed it as a vital part of his development, focusing on staying in shape and sharpening his skills with a positive attitude.
Vibing in the Pacific Northwest 🌲
Off the court, Yang has been embracing the "Portland life." From the welcoming community to the stunning scenery, he's found a home in the Pacific Northwest. "People here love outdoor activities. There are mountains and lakes nearby," he shared, mentioning his newfound love for rowing boats during the summer months. 🚣♂️
Bridging Worlds 🌍
As he prepares to rejoin the Chinese national team for the upcoming FIBA World Cup, Yang is thinking about the bigger picture. He believes that sports are the ultimate universal language. "Sports transcend national boundaries," he noted, encouraging more exchange between Chinese and American players to help the game grow globally.
Stay tuned, basketball fans—Yang Hansen is just getting started! 🏀✨
Reference(s):
Exclusive: China's Yang Hansen reflects on historic NBA rookie Season
cgtn.com
