Yang Hansen is the latest rookie for the Portland Trail Blazers, and he is playing under considerable hype. Picked at #16 in the 2025 Draft, Yang needs to make a mark and become part of Portland’s center rotation.
Blazers’ Yang Hansen Makes Impressive Summer League Debut
The Portland Trail Blazers had their first NBA Summer League game on Friday, and it was the Yang Hansen show. From the jump, Yang took the ball and dished out a dime to Sidy Cissoko. The Chinese center finished with a line of 10 points, four rebounds, five assists, a steal, and three blocks.
It is an impressive performance for the 20-year-old, cementing himself as one of the Blazers’ most promising talents. He was not only producing, but he looked comfortable on the court. That is huge for any big man, considering it is faster and more physical than the Chinese Basketball Association.
Despite the big performance, Yang does not consider it the best game he could have had. He takes accountability for his mistakes, and he has vowed to keep improving. He might not become the Chinese version of Nikola Jokic, but he is playing his own game.
Yang Knows He Has A Lot To Work On
Even though he had a solid debut at the 2025 NBA Summer League, the Chinese center is not being complacent. He knows every game matters, and it is an opportunity to grow. Since the Summer League will be his chance to showcase himself, he will want the best performances possible.
After the game, Yang spoke to the Chinese media, speaking about his possible improvements.
“At times I was too rushed and made some poor decisions — I still have a lot to learn and adjust,” he said in an interview. “I’m getting along great with my teammates and had a lot of fun.”
That is a good attitude to have in the NBA. Considering the front office committed to Portland’s centers after buying out Deandre Ayton, competitive personalities matter. Every time the Blazers play with Yang, he will be ready to contribute with an eye for improvement.
Yang Must Deliver On The Blazers’ Expectations
While they do not expect Yang to be an All-Star from the jump, they see him as a valuable piece. The future is bright in Portland, especially with the group of players they have. Alongside Yang, they have Donovan Clingan, which makes for a good center rotation.
Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe man the guard slots as the two most promising players on the roster. Coach Chauncey Billups is a big fan of his backcourt, as evidenced by his belief in Sharpe’s development. At the same time, Billups also praised Henderson for all the work he’s doing in the offseason.
“哥们儿来了”( bro we are coming)— Blazers fans held up a sign in Chinese to welcome Hanson.
A heartfelt tribute to the same phrase used 24 years ago for Wang Zhizhi’s NBA debut.
Portland might just have the best fans in the world. pic.twitter.com/L74LwckYZC— Victor Sun (@Victor_S7709) July 12, 2025
Portland did considerable work with scouting Yang during his CBA days. NBA Draft extraordinaire and Blazers assistant GM Mike Schmitz took charge with the Chinese center. That is significant, as he’s one of the greatest draft minds, so he knows a hit when he sees one.
Yang could become one of the Blazers’ pillars in the future alongside the aforementioned young core. Some would argue that it would be awkward with Clingan, but that is a problem for a different day. The core’s development is the priority, and all these young players are ready to contribute.
© Brad Penner-Imagn Images
