Yang Hansen would be the new child on the Portland Path Blazers roster, however he’s already profitable followers over along with his charisma, humorousness, and potential. The 7-foot-1 Chinese language rookie shared a narrative throughout a current interview that gave a glimpse into his humble beginnings and the legendary help behind his rise.
Earlier than coming into the NBA, Hansen had a really totally different life-style. “I used to be just a little little bit of a fats boy,” he advised The Washington Publish. “My father advised me to attempt some sports activities, work out what you need to do, and lose some weight. My father advised me, don’t turn out to be fats.” The remark sparked laughs, however it additionally revealed a turning level in Hansen’s life. That push from his father set him on the trail towards basketball.
What occurred subsequent added a layer of heat to his story. Hansen shared that NBA legend Yao Ming, some of the revered Chinese language athletes of all time, supplied him a really totally different form of recommendation earlier than his NBA debut. “He advised me to get pleasure from your meals, get pleasure from your drinks, get pleasure from your sleep, and luxuriate in the whole lot.” That form of encouragement, targeted on stability and pleasure, left a robust impression.
Hansen is following within the footsteps of Yao, not simply as a towering middle from China, however as somebody who carries the hopes of a basketball-loving nation. He turned the highest-drafted Chinese language participant in almost 20 years when the Memphis Grizzlies chosen him sixteenth general within the 2025 NBA Draft. Shortly after, he was traded to the Portland Path Blazers, a group now present process a rebuild centered on Damian Lillard’s long-awaited return.
In his first Summer season League appearances, Hansen has proven why the Blazers see a lot promise in him. He put up 10 factors, 5 rebounds, and two blocks in his debut, then adopted it with a 15-point displaying. For a rookie large man, his mixture of dimension, passing, mobility, and taking pictures has impressed coaches and followers alike.
Nevertheless it was a small gesture that made headlines. Throughout an interview on the 2K26 NBA Summer season League, Hansen tapped his wrist with a smile. It was a playful nod to “Dame Time,” a transparent signal he’s excited to share the court docket with Damian Lillard, who just lately returned to Portland on a three-year deal. Lillard is predicted to tackle a mentoring function whereas serving to lead the subsequent period of Blazers basketball.
That partnership between Lillard and Hansen may very well be particular. Lillard brings management, clutch scoring, and expertise. Hansen provides contemporary vitality, dimension, and a willingness to study. Collectively, they signify the Path Blazers’ mixture of veteran presence and youth growth.
What units the 20-year-old aside is not only his basketball capacity however his persona. He has been open about his journey, his flaws, and the individuals who have helped him alongside the best way. From his father’s robust like to Yao Ming’s sensible phrases, he’s carrying classes that transcend basketball.
Because the season approaches, Hansen is predicted to play behind Donovan Clingan however may earn extra minutes if he continues to develop. Portland followers are excited not simply due to what Hansen can do now, however due to what he would possibly turn out to be.
For the large man, the highway to the NBA was stuffed with challenges. However with a joyful coronary heart, a grounded mindset, and help from legends like Yao, he’s already embracing his new chapter. Hansen is right here for the second and prepared for what comes subsequent.