Yang Hansen Bio
Yang Hansen is a Chinese professional basketball player for the Rip City Remix of the NBA G League, on assignment from the Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was drafted 16th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies before being traded to the Trail Blazers. Yang is the ninth Chinese player to be drafted to the NBA, and the third highest overall to be drafted.
Early Life and Background
Yang Hansen was born on June 26, 2005, in Zibo, Shandong Province, China. He began playing basketball at a young age, joining a local club for training in the third grade of elementary school. His early exposure to the sport was further enhanced when he enrolled in the Zibo Sports School, where he honed his skills. In 2020, Yang was invited to join the youth training system of the Qingdao Guoxin Haitian Club, marking a significant step in his basketball journey.
Path to Basketball
Yang’s talent became evident during his time with the Qingdao Guoxin Haitian Youth Team. In 2021, the team won the U17 National Championship, and Yang was recognized as the Best Defensive Player. The following year, he helped the team defend their title, earning the Most Valuable Player award. These achievements laid the foundation for his transition into professional basketball.
Yang Hansen Career
Early Career (2023-2025)
Yang Hansen made his professional debut during the 2023–24 CBA season when he was promoted to the first team of the Qingdao Eagles. On October 23, 2023, he played his first game against Beijing Enterprises. His performance during the season caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to multiple visits to observe him. Yang’s rookie season was remarkable, as he averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, and three assists per game, earning him both the Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Breakthrough (2025)
Yang’s breakthrough came on June 25, 2025, when he was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies as the 16th pick in the NBA draft. His rights were subsequently traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, making him the highest Chinese draft pick since Yi Jianlian in 2007. Throughout his rookie season, Yang has been assigned to the Rip City Remix, where he continues to develop his skills and make an impact in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Yang Hansen’s signature achievements include being a two-time CBA All-Star and a two-time All-CBA Domestic First Team member. His accolades also include the CBA Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year titles, showcasing his defensive prowess and scoring ability on the court.
Yang Hansen Award Nominations
Yang Hansen has received several nominations throughout his career, including recognition for his outstanding performances in the CBA and his contributions to the national team.
Yang Hansen Awards Won
Yang Hansen has won multiple awards, including the CBA Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year titles, as well as being named to the All-CBA Domestic First Team and the CBA All-Star team.
Yang Hansen Family
Yang Hansen comes from a supportive family. His father, Yang Lin, is an electrician and an amateur basketball player, while his mother, Zhu Jing, works as an accountant. Their encouragement has played a significant role in Yang’s development as a professional athlete.
Personal Life
In his personal life, Yang Hansen enjoys leisure activities such as sleeping, eating, and playing video games on his PlayStation 5. These interests reflect a balance between his demanding basketball career and personal enjoyment.
