Yang Hansen, a 21‑year‑old Chinese basketball phenom, has quickly become one of the most talked‑about names in the league, drawing comparisons to Nikola Jokic for his uncanny passing vision and court awareness.
From Tehran to the NBA
His breakout came at the 2022 U18 Asia Cup in Iran, where his playmaking earned him the moniker "Chinese Jokic" after leading Team Dragon to a memorable run in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 qualifiers.
After catching the eye of NBA scouts, Hansen signed with the Portland Trail Blazers and spent his rookie season in the G League, posting 16.2 points, 9.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists while adjusting to a new continent.
His performances earned a spot in the Rising Stars Challenge at the 2026 NBA All‑Star Weekend and a strong showing in the Summer League, where he averaged 13.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.3 blocks.
Mentorship and Cultural Adaptation
Veteran stars Damian Lillard and Deni Avdija have taken Hansen under their wing, helping him navigate language barriers, cultural nuances and the rigors of professional life in the United States.
Under the guidance of Coach Guo Shiqiang, Hansen has also begun to integrate younger compatriots such as Wang Junjie and Yu Jiahao into the national roster, fostering a new generation of Chinese talent.
Commitment to Team China
Hansen remains deeply committed to the Chinese national team, highlighted by a 15‑point, 9‑rebound contribution in an 83‑57 victory over Qatar during the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, a win that underscored his growing influence.
With the long‑term goal of restoring China’s prominence in Asian basketball, Hansen sees his NBA journey as a platform to inspire teammates and fans alike, blending his domestic roots with a global outlook.