Trail Blazers' Yang Hansen will wear a new jersey number in the NBA
Yang was an All-Star in each of the past two seasons in the CBA, the top professional league in China. He averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, three assists and 2.6 blocks in 32.8 minutes per game across 45 appearances last season.
The 16th pick also occupied No. 51 while representing the Chinese national team, most recently in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers. When choosing his new number, it appears that Yang simply opted to honor his draft position this year.
Yang averaged 10.8 points, five rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.2 blocks on 45.7% shooting from the field in four appearances with the Trail Blazers in summer league. He scored in double figures three times, including a 15-point effort on July 15.
The 7-footer is highly touted for his overall skill set and ability as a player who can work down low, space the floor and protect the paint. The Trail Blazers have had him on their radar for the past two years and believe he can be a player who contributes at a high level on both sides of the court.
Yang has already made quite an impression on teammates Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard, with both intrigued by his potential on the court. His selection was met with some criticism, but it is evident that the organization is very high on him and excited to see him next season.
Note: Throughout August, Rookie Wire is looking at every first-round pick and why each player selected their respective jersey number as they make the jump to the NBA.
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