Who Is Hansen Yang, and Why Are Trail Blazers Fans Excited About the Young Center?

There’s a palpable buzz floating around the Portland Trail Blazers heading into the 2025-26 NBA season. No. 16 overall draft pick, Hansen Yang, is the primary reason for excitement.

The 7-1 center will compete for the starting position alongside former UConn standout, Donovan Clingan, following DeAndre Ayton’s departure to the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason. The 20-year-old Chinese prospect previously played for the Qingdao Eagles in the CBA, averaging over 16 points last season.

Portland wasn’t a relevant factor in the Western Conference in 2024-25. The Trail Blazers finished 12th out of 15 teams in the West, going 36-46, while scoring 110.9 points per game, ranked 22nd in the NBA.

Hansen gives Portland a young but experienced offensive presence in their front court amidst a rebuild. If you’re a believer in the Trail Blazers ahead of the upcoming NBA regular season, claim the current Borgata promo code to receive a generous bonus bet reward. Place these bonus bets on Hansen’s player props, or take the over on Portland’s win total, which is currently set to 34.5.

In 2024-25, Hansen averaged 16.6 points per game, 10.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 2.6 blocks per game. While initially drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies, Hansen wound up being traded to Portland during the 2025 NBA Draft, landing on a roster with a ton of opportunity to showcase his skillset.

Scouts are high on Hansen with the Trail Blazers. While he’s a solid two-way player, the Chinese center’s offensive production is what stands out the most. Hansen is an excellent passer and possesses great vision to finish plays with a score.

Whether used in the post or in pick-and-roll plays, Hansen has the touch and IQ to be an asset for Portland in the coming years. He could even cement his role as a starter during his rookie season.

Comparisons to Chicago’s veteran center, Nikola Vucevic, and Houston’s young star, Alperen Sengun, have been made by NBA scouts. The primary weakness is a lack of muscle, which can always be added with strength and conditioning coaches, programs, and diet.

Fans may feel a strong connection to Hansen based on a recent media interview he gave in regards to his interests.

“Sometimes, I sleep. All times I sleep. I like to play PS5. I like to eat,” Hansen said with a laugh and a smile.

It’s no secret that the Trail Blazers are in the midst of a rebuild. As a result, playing in a smaller market, Hansen will have the ability to develop without the same pressure that gets placed on rookies with hype in markets like New York and Los Angeles.

Playing in the Chinese Basketball Association for two years should also help Hansen acclimate to the NBA. He’s been playing professionally and, like many other top foreign prospects, has a lot of experience in high-stakes games while playing in front of raucous crowds.

Hansen’s relatability, combined with his production on the hardwood, makes him a fascinating first-round draft pick to follow during the NBA’s 2025-26 regular season.