Trail Blazers rookie Yang Hansen sparks global NBA interest

The Portland Trail Blazers are preparing for the debut of their promising Chinese rookie center, Yang Hansen, who has generated significant excitement both on and off the court. At 20 years old and standing over 7 feet tall, Yang is noted for his versatile skills, including court vision, passing, shooting, and physicality, which have impressed coach Chauncey Billups and teammates such as Damian Lillard. His arrival has sparked a surge of Chinese fan interest, with millions tuning in to watch the Blazers' Summer League games via Chinese streaming platforms, prompting the team to hire a Mandarin-speaking social media staffer to engage this growing audience. Yang is balancing the challenge of adapting to a new language and culture while establishing strong chemistry with teammates, relying on his friendly demeanor to bridge communication gaps. The Blazers are eager to capitalize on the global attention Yang brings, viewing him as a key figure in expanding the team's international presence and fanbase. Overall, Yang Hansen embodies both exciting athletic potential and a cultural connection that could enhance the Trail Blazers' profile worldwide.