Yang Hansen, nicknamed the “Chinese Jokic,” received the best birthday gift of his life a day early — a surprise first-round NBA draft selection.
The 7’2” Chinese center was chosen with the 16th overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers, stunning fans and analysts who had projected him as a second-rounder. The pick also delighted Chinese viewers watching live back home, where the news quickly went viral.
“Hello, NBA! My name is Hansen Yang!” he posted on Weibo, China’s version of X.
Yang, who turned 20 on Thursday, is already a household name in China. His selection marks the first time in nearly a decade that a Chinese player has been drafted into the NBA — the last being Wang Zhelin and Zhou Qi in 2016.
Rising Star in China
Yang began his professional career with the Qingdao Eagles in 2023. In just two seasons, he was named Rookie of the Year and became a CBA All-Star starter twice. He averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game last season.
He made his international debut for China in early 2024 and has since become a regular in the national squad.
His impressive NBA Draft Combine measurements — including a 7’3” wingspan and 9’3” standing reach — only added to the excitement.
Following in Yao’s Footsteps
Yang’s draft date is symbolic. Exactly 23 years ago, Yao Ming was picked No. 1 overall by the Houston Rockets. While comparisons are still early, Yang’s all-around game — including vision, rebounding, and shooting — has drawn interest.
Yao himself gave some guidance before the draft:
“The draft is just a small part of their career,” Yao said. “What really matters is the path they take afterward.”
Now, that path begins for Yang — not just as Portland’s new big man, but as the new face of Chinese basketball on the global stage.
