Hansen Yang: The Unstoppable Chinese Basketball Sensation
Hansen Yang, the 20-year-old Chinese basketball sensation, has achieved the unthinkable. With his selection by the Portland Trail Blazers as the 16th overall pick in the first round of the NBA draft, Yang has become the first Chinese player to be drafted into the league since 2016. This milestone marks a new chapter in Yang's journey, one that has been years in the making.
26 June 2025
As Yang himself noted on his social media account, his 20th birthday has brought him a gift he will never forget - the realization of his childhood dream to play in the NBA. The Barclays Center, where the draft took place, was aglow with excitement as Yang's name was announced, and the young player was overwhelmed with emotion. However, Yang is quick to acknowledge that this is just the beginning of his journey. With a strong work ethic and a determination to continue to improve, Yang is ready to take on the challenges of the NBA and make his mark on the league.
Yang's ascent to the NBA is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Supported by his family, friends, and teammates, Yang has overcome countless obstacles to achieve his goal. His selection by the Trail Blazers is not only a personal triumph but also a source of pride for his country and an inspiration to young basketball players everywhere. As Yang embarks on this new chapter in his career, he is poised to become a role model for a new generation of Chinese basketball players and a symbol of the growing influence of Chinese basketball on the global stage.

As the 16th overall pick in the first round of the NBA draft, Yang Hanshen is proving that determination and hard work can pay off. The young center from China's Qingdao men's basketball team has made a name for himself on the NBA stage, shattering expectations and defying the odds. With his unique playing style and impressive skills, Yang Hanshen is no longer just a promising prospect, but a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional basketball.
During the Chicago combine, Yang Hanshen demonstrated his composure and maturity, showcasing his ability to make smart decisions on the court. In two 5-on-5 games, he scored 12 and 11 points, respectively, with six rebounds and six assists. While his stats may not have been jaw-dropping, they were undeniably effective. What sets Yang Hanshen apart is his ability to play within his role, avoiding the temptation to hog the ball and instead focusing on making intelligent plays. His calm and collected demeanor on the court is a rare asset, particularly in a league where flashiness often takes center stage.

As a center, Yang Hanshen brings a unique set of skills to the table. He is an adept passer with exceptional court vision, making him a valuable asset in the team's offense. His impressive physical attributes, including his height and wingspan, make him a formidable presence in the paint. While he still needs to work on his lateral movement and perimeter defense, his defensive awareness and ability to rotate and fill gaps are steadily improving. With his proficiency in mid-range and outside shooting, Yang Hanshen has the potential to become a crucial component in a team's attack.
Yang's journey to the NBA is a testament to his unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion for basketball. The 2025 NBA draft marked a historic milestone for Chinese basketball, as Yang Hengsen became the third Chinese player to be selected in the first round, following in the footsteps of legendary players Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian. The Portland Trail Blazers' decision to select Yang with the 16th overall pick is a significant breakthrough for Chinese basketball, signaling a new era of opportunities for Chinese players in the international arena.
Yang's selection is not only a personal triumph but also a source of pride for Chinese basketball fans worldwide. His remarkable talent, combined with his tireless efforts, has earned him a spot among the world's best basketball players. As he embarks on his NBA journey, Yang is expected to make a significant impact, not only on the court but also as an ambassador for Chinese basketball.
The significance of Yang's selection extends beyond the realm of sports, as it highlights the growing influence of Chinese basketball on the global stage. The NBA's popularity in China has been steadily increasing, with a growing fan base and a surge in interest in the sport. Yang's selection is likely to further fuel this trend, inspiring a new generation of Chinese basketball players to pursue their dreams of playing in the NBA.
As Yang prepares to take the court alongside the world's top basketball players, he carries the hopes and expectations of an entire nation on his shoulders. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination, serving as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring basketball players in China and beyond. With his selection, Yang has opened the door to new possibilities, paving the way for future generations of Chinese players to follow in his footsteps and make their mark on the international basketball scene.
Yang Hansen possesses a unique combination of speed, agility, and shooting accuracy, making him a formidable opponent on the court. His ability to adapt to different game situations and think critically under pressure is also noteworthy. These skills are essential for success in the highly competitive NBA league. Comparisons can be drawn between Yang Hansen and current NBA players known for their versatility and strong work ethic, such as Luka Doncic and Jayson Tatum, who have made significant impacts in the league at a young age.

Despite his potential, Yang Hansen will face numerous challenges in the NBA, including fierce competition, intense media scrutiny, and the need to continuously improve his skills to stay ahead. The physical and mental demands of the league are high, and only those who are truly committed can excel. Given his talents and the growing interest in international players, Yang Hansen's future in the NBA looks promising. With the right training, support, and mindset, he has the potential to not only enter the league but to make a lasting impact. His journey will be closely watched by basketball fans worldwide, eager to see him achieve his full potential.