Move over, legends! There is a new giant in the NBA, and he is making waves. 🏀 20-year-old Chinese center Yang Hansen has officially wrapped up his rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers, and he is reflecting on a year that sounded like something straight out of a sports movie.
Drafted 16th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, the 2.16-meter phenom jumped from the Qingdao Eagles in the CBA to the brightest lights in basketball. It wasn't just about the height; it was about the heart. Yang played 43 games, helping Portland secure a playoff spot before a hard-fought first-round battle against the San Antonio Spurs. 🌟
For Yang, the experience was totally surreal. In a candid chat with Sports Scene anchor Greg Laffradi, he admitted that some moments felt like a glitch in the matrix. "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." Who hasn't felt that way watching Curry, right? 🎮🔥
But it wasn't all glitz and glamour. Part of the journey included time with Portland's G League affiliate, the Rip City Remix. While some players might see a G League stint as a setback, the former CBA Rookie and Defensive Player of the Year took it as a masterclass in growth. Yang emphasized the importance of a positive mindset, noting that the extra court time helped him stay sharp and level up his skills for the big stage. 💪
Off the court, Yang has been embracing the "Pacific Northwest vibe." From the supportive locals in Portland to the breathtaking scenery, he's fitting right in. "People here love outdoor activities. There are mountains and lakes nearby," he shared, mentioning his new hobby of rowing boats during the summer. 🚣♂️🏔️
Now, as he prepares to rejoin the Chinese national team for the upcoming FIBA World Cup, Yang is looking at the bigger picture. He believes sports are the ultimate universal language. "Sports transcend national boundaries," Yang said. He's championing more cultural exchange, suggesting that more Chinese players should head to the US and more American players should experience China to bridge the gap between cultures. 🌍💬
With one season under his belt, Yang Hansen isn't just playing a game—he's building a bridge. We can't wait to see what he does in year two! ✨🏀
Reference(s):
Exclusive: China's Yang Hansen reflects on historic NBA rookie season
cgtn.com
