At 19, Chinese center Yang Hansen has taken the basketball world by storm, officially declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft. "This is the most important decision in my life. I want to showcase myself on a bigger stage," he shared.
Yang's rise began at the FIBA U19 Men's Basketball World Cup two years ago, where he squared off with the globe's top young talents. That experience "boosted my confidence and fueled my determination to reach new heights," he said.
Last summer, he joined the NBA Summer League with the national team—an invaluable crash course in elite competition. On the home front, he led the Qingdao Eagles to a hard-fought CBA Playoffs quarterfinal, pushing the top-seeded Guangsha Lions to a decisive Game 5.
Standing at 2.18 meters, Yang averaged a double-double during the 2024-25 CBA regular season: 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, three assists and an impressive 2.6 blocks per game. His efforts earned him All-CBA First Team honors, Top Young Rising Star for the second straight year and an All-Star Game starting nod.
In January, Yang teamed up with Klutch Sports Group, joining the agency that represents NBA icons like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. "Klutch Sports Group recommended experienced coaches coming to China to provide guidance in basketball skills, tactics and living habits. There will be more training plans in the United States," he noted.
Yang also made a splash on the senior national team stage in February's FIBA Asia Cup Qualifying, contributing 13 points and four assists in 19 minutes to help China overpower Mongolia 80-49.
With hard work, global support and a hunger for growth, Yang Hansen is primed to bring his game to the next level. The basketball world will be watching.
Reference(s):
Chinese basketball center Yang Hansen confirms entry into NBA Draft
cgtn.com
