Core Viewpoint - Yang Hansen, a 20-year-old Chinese basketball player, was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers as the 16th pick in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft, marking a significant moment for Chinese basketball after a long wait since Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian [5][9]. Group 1: Background and Early Career - Yang Hansen's basketball journey began with a simple wish to lose weight, leading him to train at a sports school in Shandong, where he developed unique skills as a "playmaking center" [6]. - He made a strong debut in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) in 2023, achieving impressive statistics and winning awards for best newcomer and best defensive player [6]. - At the 2023 U19 World Cup, he averaged 12.6 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 4.7 assists, earning the title of "block king" and being named to the tournament's best lineup [6]. Group 2: NBA Draft Journey - Yang Hansen faced skepticism regarding his chances of being drafted, but his performance in the NBA combine caught the attention of scouts, leading to invitations from 14 teams for tryouts [8]. - He traveled extensively across the U.S. for these tryouts, covering a distance of 27,600 kilometers, showcasing his determination despite physical challenges [8]. - On June 25, 2025, coinciding with his 20th birthday, he was selected by the Trail Blazers, a moment he described as surreal and significant for Chinese basketball [9]. Group 3: Initial NBA Experience - In his NBA Summer League debut, Yang Hansen recorded 10 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks, demonstrating his potential [10]. - He remains grounded despite comparisons to basketball legends, focusing on improving his game and contributing to his team [11]. - Yang Hansen's traditional center style initially clashed with the Trail Blazers' fast-paced strategy, leading to challenges in securing playing time [11]. Group 4: Future Aspirations - Yang Hansen aims to bridge the gap between his NBA experiences and the development of basketball in China, aspiring to share advanced training methods and insights with local players [13]. - His journey reflects the potential of a new generation of Chinese players on the international stage, emphasizing the importance of their role in the future of Chinese basketball [13].