'Don't become fat' – Yang Hansen credits NBA journey to father's tough love and a troubled past
Yang Hansen's journey to the
NBA
hasn't followed a typical path. At just 20 years old, the 7-foot-1 Chinese center has gone from being an overweight teenager in Zibo to becoming the Portland Trail Blazers' most surprising Summer League breakout.
But the roots of his basketball story aren't built on early trophies or flashy mixtapes. They begin with a simple, blunt piece of advice from his father, as he specifically told the young Hansen to lose some weight.
Yang Hansen says NBA dream began with father's tough love and a past he had to outgrow
Long before Hansen became a first-round NBA Draft pick, 16th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies before being traded to Portland, his life was off track. He struggled in school, had no clear goals, and described himself as 'a little bit of a fat boy.'
It was his father who pushed him toward sports, not out of ambition, but concern.
'My father told me to try some sports… My father told me: 'Don't become fat,'' Hansen recalled in an interview with The Washington Post.
It was indeed a life-changing moment for Hansen. He picked up a basketball, started grinding in the gym, and never looked back. It started as a fight against weight, but it turned into a mission. Fast forward to Summer League 2025, and Hansen is now being dubbed 'Baby Jokic' by some fans and media.
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With averages of 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game, he's turned doubters into believers.
Yang Hansen finds joy in the NBA
Hansen might be raw, but he's got vision, touch, and surprising court IQ. Portland coach Chauncey Billups praised his passing and called him 'a great connector.' His Summer League coach Ronnie Burrell highlighted Hansen's joy, noting how relaxed and playful he's been with teammates, especially during his John Cena 'you can't see me' celebration, which won him dinner from teammate Andrew Carr.
Off the court, Hansen continues to lean on the wisdom of Chinese basketball legend Yao Ming. The Hall of Famer gave him parting advice before his move to the U.S.: 'Enjoy your food, enjoy your drinks, enjoy your sleep and enjoy everything.'
Still, Hansen knows he has a long way to go. His defense needs polish, and his physical conditioning isn't quite NBA-ready. But he's taking it one step at a time.
'Be positive no matter where you go.
Be happy, and try to have fun with everyone,' he said.
Yang Hansen FAQs
How did Yang Hansen start playing basketball?
A: His father urged him to lose weight and try sports. That advice sparked his path to the NBA.
Why is Yang Hansen compared to Nikola Jokic?
A: His passing, vision, and all-around game as a 7'1" center earned him the 'Baby Jokic' nickname.
What advice did Yao Ming give Yang Hansen?
A: Yao told him to enjoy food, sleep, and life, reminding him to stay balanced and positive in the NBA.
Also Read:
Dwyane Wade reveals real reason why Los Angeles Lakers won't part ways with LeBron James despite swirling rumors
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