Rising star Yang Hansen, the latest talent from China to join the NBA, has set his sights on a remarkable career, drawing inspiration from legendary player Yao Ming. Hansen, who was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers, aims to carve out his own legacy in the league during his rookie season.
Yao Ming transformed the perception of basketball in China when he became the first overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft with the Houston Rockets. His career included eight All-Star selections and five appearances on the All-NBA teams. Despite injuries that led to his retirement in 2011, Yao remains a towering figure in sports history, and Hansen hopes to follow in his footsteps.
In a recent interview, Hansen expressed his aspirations, stating, “I want to create my own path in the NBA. And to be successful. But, at the same time, that is just the beginning. It is only a small part of what I hope is next.” His ambition extends beyond individual success; he aims to return to China after his NBA career to inspire future generations of athletes.
“My goal is to inspire athletes back home in China, just like Yao did for me,” Hansen added. He hopes to show young players that it is indeed possible to be a first-round NBA draft pick and achieve their dreams.
While Hansen is eager to represent his country on the international stage, he acknowledges the challenges posed by time zone differences. Chinese fans often struggle to catch live NBA games, as broadcasts occur late at night or early in the morning. Hansen remarked, “I worry about this, you know? That time difference… I hope that people in China will cheer me on, of course, but without impacting your daily life too much or losing any sleep.”
As Hansen prepares to step onto the court, he carries the weight of expectations from over a billion fans in China. This sense of responsibility fuels his determination to succeed and make a lasting impact in the league.
With his debut season on the horizon, Yang Hansen is not only focused on his personal achievements but also on the legacy he hopes to build. His journey in the NBA could pave the way for future generations of Chinese players, echoing the path blazed by Yao Ming.