Yang Hansen from the Chinese mainland has officially joined the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers after being selected 16th overall in the June 25 draft. Per Spotrac, he signed a four-year, $21.4 million contract with team options for the third and fourth seasons, and will be trade-locked until August 1.
The 7-foot-2 big man made waves in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) with the Qingdao Eagles, averaging 15.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.4 blocks per game over his last two seasons. His defensive prowess earned him the 2023–24 CBA Defensive Player of the Year award. He also boasts two All-CBA Team nods, two Top Young Rising Star honors, and two CBA All-Star appearances.
- CBA Defensive Player of the Year (2023–24)
- Two-time All-CBA Team selection
- Two-time Top Young Rising Star
- Two-time CBA All-Star
Yang’s strong showing at the NBA Draft Combine caught the eyes of multiple franchises. Despite reported interest from the Brooklyn Nets and Minnesota Timberwolves, the Trail Blazers secured his rights in a savvy move. Portland continues its rebuild after trading nine-time All-Star Damian Lillard last autumn. The team posted 21 wins in 2022–23 and 36 wins in 2023–24, falling short of playoff berths in both seasons.
With Deandre Ayton bought out this offseason, Yang will vie for center minutes alongside Donovan Clingan, Robert Williams and Duop Reath. Portland also exchanged Anfernee Simons and future second-round picks to acquire veteran guard Jrue Holiday, hoping to blend experience with youth.
“You can just tell he’s been taught the right way, so a lot of things as a coach that I have to teach with young guys, I don’t have to teach this kid,” said Portland coach Chauncey Billups, highlighting Yang’s readiness. General manager Joe Cronin added on draft night, “This is a very, very unique talent… His size, skill set and IQ make him a perfect fit for today’s game.”
As Yang Hansen embarks on his NBA journey, fans from the Chinese mainland to across the globe will be watching closely. His blend of size, skill and intelligence could redefine Portland’s frontcourt and inspire a new generation of players worldwide.
Reference(s):
NBA: China's Yang Hansen officially signs with Portland Trail Blazers
cgtn.com
