As rookie Yang Hansen gears up for his first NBA season, the Portland Trail Blazers are preparing for the attention his arrival is generating, both in the U.S. and in China.
Hansen Draws Comparisons to Yao Ming
At 7-foot-1, the 20-year-old center has been compared to fellow countryman and NBA legend Yao Ming. Coach Chauncey Billups is confident Hansen will play a meaningful role this season.
“I think Hansen’s done a really good job these last couple months just trying to get situated, trying to understand what we’re doing. He’s definitely going to play,” Billups said.
International Spotlight and Fan Engagement
Yang’s Summer League performances have already drawn millions of viewers in China. A free broadcast of Portland’s Summer League game against Memphis reportedly attracted 5.2 million viewers on Tencent.
Blazers President Dewayne Hankins said the team is actively capitalizing on the international attention, hiring a Mandarin-speaking social media staffer to strengthen engagement with fans.
Adjusting to Life in Portland
Off the court, Hansen is focusing on learning English, building chemistry with teammates, and acclimating to American culture. Guard Scoot Henderson joked that Yang learned the Nae Nae dance but declined to perform it for reporters.
“I just try to work to make my body faster and be more physical,” Hansen said through an interpreter. “And try to communicate with my teammates more by English.”
Impressive Skills and Development Plan
Yang averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks last season for the Qingdao Eagles in China’s top professional league. The Blazers selected him 16th overall in the NBA draft after two years of scouting, impressed by his basketball IQ, passing ability, and versatility.
Guard Damian Lillard praised Hansen’s feel for the game, saying, “He knows how to play. He knows the right paths to make, when he gets the ball in the paint… he knows how to find space for a quality shot.” Forward Deni Avdija added, “He’s very smart, really good passer, and he wants to learn.”
Gradual Integration into the NBA
General Manager Joe Cronin emphasized a gradual development plan. Hansen may see minutes in Portland while also spending time with the G League affiliate, the Rip City Remix, to gain experience.
“It’s hard for a rookie, especially an international one, who hasn’t played much other than Summer League games,” Cronin said.
Hansen remains focused on improving and contributing to the team. “The best thing I can do is focus on my game, just follow my teammates, and see what I can do for them and for the team,” he said.