Interview: Chinese teen sensation Yang Hansen set to chase his NBA dream

by sportswriters Li Chunyu, Li Bowen and Wang Jingyu

BEIJING, April 26 (Xinhua) -- Will Chinese basketball rising star Yang Hansen, a 2.18-meter center of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) side Qingdao Eagles, receive an NBA offer as his 20th birthday gift this summer?

Following a narrow 101-96 loss to the top-seeded Zhejiang Lions in Game 5, the Qingdao Eagles were eliminated from the best-of-five quarterfinals of the CBA playoffs on Wednesday. Now, Yang's primary focus over the coming months will be the NBA Draft 2025, set to take place in June.

Born on June 26, 2005, Yang announced his decision to enter the NBA Draft on Saturday, expressing a strong desire to showcase his skills and pursue his basketball dreams on a larger stage in an interview with Xinhua.

GETTING PREPARED

Yang possesses impressive moves, a soft touch, and outstanding passing vision. At the 2023 FIBA U19 Men's Basketball World Cup, he earned a place on the All-Tournament Second Team, averaging 12.6 points, 10.4 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and five blocks.

"I competed against the best players of my age worldwide at the FIBA U19 Men's Basketball World Cup, which boosted my confidence and fueled my determination to reach new heights," said Yang, who joined China's national basketball team in 2024.

"I attended the NBA Summer League together with our national team last year. It was a vital opportunity for me to gain experience," he added.

In January, Yang's domestic agency announced that he had signed with Klutch Sports Group, a prominent agency founded by Rich Paul, known for representing NBA stars like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and De'Aaron Fox.

"Klutch Sports Group recommended experienced coaches coming to China to provide guidance in basketball skills, tactics, and living habits. There will be more training plans in the United States," Yang said.

"I have been ready both mentally and physically. My goal is to earn more court time and gain the trust of my coaches and teammates."

IMPROVEMENT IN CBA

Compared to his rookie year, Yang has made remarkable progress this season, averaging 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, three assists and one steal per game, with an impressive 2.6 blocks - ranking first in the league.

With intensive strength training, Yang has developed into a powerful yet agile center, capable of easily scoring in the paint and effectively protecting the rim.

"I have to face off against the best centers in China and many former NBA players. It's a challenge but essential for my overall improvement," said Yang.

This season, CBA teams are allowed to field two foreign players in the first three quarters and one in the fourth.

"With the joint efforts of Chinese and foreign players, the competitiveness of CBA has significantly increased," Yang remarked.

The teenager also expressed his gratitude to his club and head coach Liu Weiwei. "My coach gave me a lot of time and space to grow during my rookie season. Although we were eliminated in the first round of playoffs last year, we gained valuable experience that contributed to this year's breakthrough."

AMBITION FOR FUTURE

As a team player, Yang does well in sharing the ball and creating chances for teammates, though he recognizes the need to improve his shooting and defense.

"With my eyes on the NBA, I want to represent the new generation of Chinese basketball players on the international stage and bring valuable experience back. I will continue to refine my skills and address my weaknesses," he said.

For China's national team, achieving strong results in the 2027 Men's Basketball World Cup and qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games are top priorities.

"I hope to inspire more Chinese young basketball players to step out of their comfort zones and pursue their dreams. I believe we are capable of leading Chinese basketball to new heights," Yang said.

The young Chinese center takes LeBron James, Nikola Jokic, Alperen Sengun and Domantas Sabonis as his idols in the NBA. "I wish to have an all-round development and explore new possibilities for my future," Yang noted.

"Everyone should have a dream," he said. "Passion and perseverance are key, and the efforts in daily training will ultimately pay off. I appreciate the encouragement and supports from fans on social media, and I am focused on embracing a memorable journey ahead." Enditem