Portland Trail Blazers Draft Center Yang Hansen with 16th Overall Pick

In a strategic move during the 2025 NBA Draft, the Portland Trail Blazers selected Yang Hansen, a promising young center from China, with the 16th overall pick. This selection, facilitated by a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, indicates the Blazers' commitment to building a competitive roster centered around emerging talent.

Yang Hansen, who played for the Qingdao Eagles in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), showcased impressive statistics last season, averaging 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.6 blocks per game. His performance earned him the accolade of CBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2024, highlighting his potential on the defensive end. At 7’1” tall with a wingspan of 7’2” and weighing 253 pounds, Hansen possesses the physical attributes that could translate well to the NBA's competitive landscape.

The Blazers' decision to draft Hansen reflects a broader strategy to invest in young talent, as they also selected Washington State wing Cedric Coward with the 11th pick earlier in the evening. Coward was subsequently traded for the 16th pick, along with the Orlando Magic's 2028 first-round pick and two second-round picks. This exchange emphasizes the Blazers' desire to acquire assets that can contribute to their development in the coming seasons.

According to Jermaine O’Neal, former NBA player and current analyst, “Hansen has a unique blend of size and potential. However, he will need to refine his offensive skills to compete effectively in the NBA.” His past season has shown him as a capable three-point shooter, though his consistency remains in question. As noted by Matt Moore, NBA analyst for CBS Sports, “Yang’s game is still developing, especially in navigating contact from stronger defenders, which is crucial at the NBA level.”

While the selection has generated optimism among fans and analysts alike, concerns about Hansen's readiness for the NBA remain. “His ability to adapt to the faster pace and physicality of the league will be key,” states Dr. Lisa Chen, a sports psychologist and expert in athlete development at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). “Many young players struggle with this transition, and it will be interesting to see how he develops under the Blazers’ coaching staff.”

The Trail Blazers now have a crowded frontcourt, featuring five centers, including established players like Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams. This depth poses questions regarding playing time and the development path for Hansen. “It’s a long-term bet for the Blazers,” says former NBA executive and current consultant, Tom Penn. “They will need to be patient and provide the right environment for Hansen to flourish.”

As the Blazers enter a pivotal phase in their rebuilding process, the acquisition of Yang Hansen symbolizes their commitment to integrating international talent into their roster. With the evolving landscape of the NBA, the emphasis on global scouting and player development will likely continue to shape the future of teams like the Blazers. Only time will tell if Hansen can meet the expectations set before him and become a cornerstone of Portland's aspirations in the league.