During the 2026 NBA All-Star Rising Stars challenge, Portland Trail Blazers center Yang Hansen captured attention with a surprising statement about Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic. Speaking to the media on Friday, Hansen revealed his excitement about possibly meeting Jokic, saying,
“I can’t wait to kiss him,”
as shared through his translator. This unexpected comment quickly went viral on social media, sparking a mix of reactions from fans.
Social Media Reacts to Hansen’s Bold Remark
Following Hansen’s statement, fans on platforms like X reacted with both humor and disbelief. One fan quipped, “From triple-double to double cheek,” poking fun at Hansen’s unusual expression of admiration. These comments highlighted how quickly Hansen’s words spread and intensified the buzz around his rookie season and personality. Amid the excitement, Hansen’s performance in the Rising Stars event also drew attention, placing his developing career in the spotlight.
Performance Highlights from the Rising Stars Competition
Yang Hansen played for Team Austin in the Rising Stars semifinals against Team Melo, scoring 10 points on an impressive 80% shooting rate in a 40-34 defeat. His energy on the court included a memorable move: a fake and drive against Trail Blazers teammate Donovan Clingan, which delighted the crowd. Despite limited minutes during the regular season, Hansen showed flashes of promise in this showcase, demonstrating why the Trail Blazers see potential in the rookie center.
Limited NBA Playing Time and Early Career Development
Hansen’s rookie season has seen restricted court time, mainly spending minutes with the Rip City Remix in the G League. His first NBA start occurred on December 7 against the Memphis Grizzlies, coming in due to the absences of regular starting centers Donovan Clingan and Robert Williams III, sidelined with injury and illness. These moments are part of Portland’s cautious approach to integrating Hansen into the NBA while managing team depth.
The Blazers’ Approach to Yang Hansen’s Growth
Interim Portland Trail Blazers coach Tiago Splitter outlined the team’s plan to help Hansen develop into a reliable NBA center. On November 10, Splitter emphasized the importance of mastering fundamental NBA skills such as avoiding fouls and contesting rebounds consistently.
“Just the little things about the NBA, like how not to foul when someone drives,” Splitter said. “Just be ready for the physicality that guys are going to come at you, and you got to box out every time. Little things like that. Little details that are very important (in) this league. Sometimes, you just need time. You got to see it. You got to, of course, be there on the court.”
Portland views Hansen as a long-term project, focusing on his adjustment to the NBA’s speed, strength, and on-court communication. The team is using G League assignments to give him additional playing time, conditioning opportunities, and skill refinement, aiming to prepare him for expanded NBA roles in future seasons.
Rising Stars Tournament Wrap-Up and Future Outlook
Team Vince, coached by Vince Carter, won the Rising Stars title with a narrow 25-24 victory over Team Melo. Rookie VJ Edgecombe earned MVP honors for his clutch plays and game-winning free throws, overshadowing other promising talents. Meanwhile, Hansen’s participation highlighted his growing presence in high-profile NBA events despite a slow start to his career.
Yang Hansen’s candid enthusiasm for Nikola Jokic has generated a unique buzz around him as a rookie, blending on-court growth with off-court personality. As the Trail Blazers continue to nurture his development, fans and analysts alike will watch how Hansen’s role evolves amid Portland’s rebuilding efforts. The upcoming NBA seasons promise to reveal whether his potential translates into consistent impact performances.
Hansen Yang on potentially meeting his childhood idol, Nikola Jokic, during All-Star weekend:
“I can't wait to kiss him.” 💀
(h/t @ohnohedidnt24)pic.twitter.com/lgVozQNMOi
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 14, 2026
Yang Hansen FAKED OUT Donovan Clingan on this bucket.
📺 Peacock pic.twitter.com/K1AfzzQ6FZ
— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) February 14, 2026
