Yang Hansen, a seven-footer from China, is transitioning from the Qingdao Eagles to the Portland Trail Blazers and will sport a new jersey number as he tries to carve an NBA niche. Last season, Hansen was a two-time All-Star in the CBA, posting 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3 assists and 2.6 blocks in 32.8 minutes per game over 45 games. In Portland’s summer league, he showed a two-way toolkit with 10.8 points, 5 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.2 blocks on 45.7% shooting in four appearances. The Blazers’ long-running interest, plus early praise from Lillard and Holiday, hints at a longer runway for his development. If he earns minutes, Hansen could provide interior presence with floor-spreading potential, a profile that intrigues fantasy managers who prize blocks, boards and efficiency in deep leagues. His jersey-number choice signals the organization’s belief in his draft-prospect ceiling, a wink that Portland expects him to grow into a credible two-way contributor as he adjusts to NBA speed and physicality.

Damian Lillard has officially returned to the Portland Trail Blazers after a stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, signing a three-year, $42 million deal. Despite a long recovery from a torn Achilles tendon, Lillard’s excitement about the team’s potential is palpable, particularly with rising talents like Jerami Grant and Scoot Henderson. The addition of Yang Hansen, a 7-foot rookie from China, has captured Lillard’s attention, showcasing skills and charisma that could enhance the Blazers' dynamics moving forward.

Yang impressed during the Summer League, averaging 10.8 points, 3.8 assists, and earning recognition as a top international prospect after being an All-Star in the CBA. Lillard appreciates Yang's ability to facilitate offense and his confident approach to the game, indicating that the rookie could be a pivotal piece in the Blazers' future.

Damian Lillard's decision to return to the Portland Trail Blazers has sparked excitement, particularly among fans who see rookie Yang Hansen as a catalyst for the star's stay. Standing tall at 7-foot-2, Hansen has generated buzz following his performances in the Summer League, and now he eagerly anticipates playing alongside Lillard during "Dame Time," a cherished moment for Blazers fans. The rookie's enthusiasm was palpable when he was seen signaling his readiness for Lillard's iconic moments.

Lillard's legacy in Portland is firmly established, and Hansen's growth as an exciting prospect is expected to add another layer to the Blazers' future. As the season approaches, this partnership could be vital for both players, potentially reshaping the Blazers' dynamics in the Western Conference.

The Portland Trail Blazers made headlines by selecting 7-foot-2 Chinese center Yang Hansen with the 16th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Early impressions from Summer League have been promising, with Hansen showcasing impressive passing skills that caught the attention of rival coaches and executives. His ability to deliver precise assists and finish strong at the rim indicates he has significant offensive potential.

Hansen is quickly becoming a media favorite, displaying a charismatic personality that suggests a maturity beyond his years. However, there remains uncertainty on how he will fit alongside Donovan Clingan, the Blazers' current young center. If Hansen's performance continues to impress, the Blazers will gladly face this challenge.

Yang Hansen, the 7-foot-1 center from China, has made headlines as the 16th overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers, joining an elite group of Chinese players in the NBA. Former Houston Rockets player Zhou Qi has shared crucial insights on the unique challenges Yang might face in adapting to the NBA's competitive environment, particularly regarding anti-Asian bias.

Zhou emphasizes the importance of mental resilience for Yang, pointing out the cultural differences and the potential for bias against Asian players. He suggests that maintaining a balanced mindset will be vital as Yang navigates a league predominantly filled with Black athletes, where different playing styles and physicality reign. The upcoming Summer League will be Yang's first opportunity to showcase his skills and resilience on a grand stage against teams like the Golden State Warriors.