Chinese NBA Draft: Yang Hansen’s Historic Selection and Its Impact

The 2025 NBA Draft marked a significant moment for Chinese basketball, as Yang Hansen became the first player from China to be selected in nearly a decade. His surprise selection at 16th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers has generated excitement both in China and among international basketball observers, signaling a potential new era for Chinese talent in the NBA.

Yang Hansen

Yang Hansen: The “Chinese Jokic”

Yang Hansen, often dubbed the “Chinese Nikola Jokic,” is a 7'1" center who turned 20 on draft day. His rise has been meteoric: after debuting in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) at 18 with the Qingdao Eagles, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s most dominant big men. In his most recent CBA season, Yang averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2.6 blocks per game, earning accolades such as Rookie of the Year and All-Star starter.

Yang’s skill set is characterized by:

• Strong post offense with a versatile array of moves

• Excellent passing vision and playmaking for a center

• Effective rebounding and rim protection

• Developing, but still limited, shooting range (33.3% from three on low volume)

His unique combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Nikola Jokic and Alperen Şengün, especially for his ability to facilitate offense from the post and his touch around the rim.

Draft Night Surprise

Most draft analysts projected Yang as an early second-round pick, with mock drafts ranking him in the 30s or 40s just days before the event. The Portland Trail Blazers’ decision to select him at 16th overall—after trading down from the 11th pick—caught many by surprise, as Yang was not even invited to the draft’s “green room” for top prospects.

Blazers General Manager Joe Cronin explained the pick:

“We selected a player we’ve been watching for quite a while and we’re really excited. This is a very, very unique talent, in our opinion.”

Strengths and Concerns

Yang’s strengths include his advanced post game, passing ability, and defensive presence in the paint. Scouts praise his court vision and his potential to serve as an offensive hub, much like Jokic. However, there are concerns about his:

• Foot speed and ability to defend on the perimeter

• Limited vertical leap and shot-blocking at an elite NBA level

• Shooting consistency, especially from mid-range and the free-throw line

• Adjustment to the NBA’s pace and athleticism, given the different level of competition in the CBA

Some scouts remain skeptical, noting that for a big man without elite athleticism, Yang will need to develop an exceptional skill to thrive in the NBA.

Historical Context and Chinese NBA Legacy

Yang is the first Chinese player drafted in the first round since Yi Jianlian in 2007, and the first Chinese draftee since Wang Zhelin and Zhou Qi in 2016 (neither of whom had lasting NBA careers). His selection comes 23 years after Yao Ming was drafted first overall, a milestone that inspired a generation of Chinese basketball player.

Yao Ming himself offered advice to Yang and other aspiring Chinese prospects:

“No matter the outcome of tomorrow's draft, it's crucial to remember that the draft is merely a small segment of their entire career, or even their life. What truly matters is the journey they pursue afterward.”

What’s Next?

Yang Hansen’s NBA journey will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. His selection has reignited hope for a new Chinese star in the league and could inspire further investment in basketball development in China. Whether he can overcome the challenges faced by previous Chinese prospects and carve out a lasting NBA career remains to be seen, but his unique skill set and rapid rise have already made him a historic figure in Chinese basketball.

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