SAN FRANCISCO – In a highly anticipated NBA preseason debut, Hansen Yang, a towering 7-foot-1 center for the Portland Trail Blazers, faced the Golden State Warriors on October 8, 2025. Despite the team’s 129-123 loss, Yang’s performance captured the attention of fans and media alike, particularly among the large Chinese community present at the Chase Center.
Once a devoted player of NBA 2K, Yang expressed his awe at sharing the court with his childhood idols, including Stephen Curry. “Back when I used to play 2K, I often played as Curry,” Yang shared through a translator. “So standing on the same court today with Curry and Draymond felt a bit surreal.” His excitement was palpable, but the game itself proved challenging, as he managed only six points and fouled out.
Yang’s debut showcased the realities of the NBA, contrasting the digital fantasies he grew up with. His presence was more than just physical; it represented a growing connection between the league and its international audience, particularly in areas with a significant Chinese population. His impressive skills, highlighted during the Summer League in Las Vegas, made him a unique prospect in a league often characterized by similar player profiles.
Coach’s Expectations for Yang
Despite the loss, Yang’s coach, Chauncey Billups, remains optimistic about his future. Billups drew comparisons between Yang and veteran player Al Horford, suggesting that Yang will develop a versatile skill set allowing him to thrive in various situations. “Hansen will eventually have that similar skillset, where he’ll be able to dribble, pass and shoot at a high level when he reaches his potential,” Billups stated.
In the game, Yang recorded an assist and four rebounds, but faced tough competition from Quinten Post, who scored 20 points against him. The matchup illustrated the challenges Yang will need to overcome as he adjusts to the pace and intensity of the NBA.
Yang’s accomplishments leading up to this moment are impressive. As a teenager, he was a standout in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), averaging 16.2 points, 10 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He earned the title of the league’s 2025 Rising Star while playing for the Quindao Eagles and was recognized as the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year.
Looking Ahead
Despite the initial difficulties, Yang’s potential is clear, and he maintains a humble approach to his contributions on the court. “I can’t say I can help my team’s offense that much,” he remarked during a media day in September. “I just try to make every pass right and grab every rebound in front of me, and see what else I can do for the team.”
Yang had previously faced the Warriors in the Summer League, where he impressed with 10 points, four rebounds, and five assists in a convincing 106-73 victory. Fans will not have to wait long to see him again; the Blazers will face the Warriors in two upcoming games, including a matchup in the Pacific Northwest on October 24 and a regular-season trip to the Bay Area on November 21. By then, Yang anticipates feeling more at ease alongside the players he once idolized.
“It just felt unreal, like these guys were characters projected out of 2K,” Yang admitted. As he continues to develop his game, his journey will undoubtedly be one to watch in the coming NBA season.