Chinese center Yang Hansen has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, aiming to showcase his talents on basketball’s biggest stage. The 19-year-old made the announcement on Saturday, calling it “the most important decision in my life.”
“I want to showcase myself on a bigger stage,” Yang said. “Two years ago, I competed against the best players of my age worldwide at the FIBA U19 Men’s Basketball World Cup, which boosted my confidence and fueled my determination to reach new heights.”
Yang also reflected on his experiences with the national team at the NBA Summer League. “I attended the NBA Summer League with our national team last year. It was a vital opportunity for me to gain experience,” he added.
During the 2024-25 Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) regular season, Yang averaged an impressive 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, three assists, and 2.6 blocks per game, leading the league in blocks. His stellar performance earned him a spot on the All-CBA First Team, Top Young Rising Star honors for the second consecutive year, and a place in the All-Star Game starting lineup. In the playoffs, he helped lead the Qingdao Eagles to the quarterfinals.
“Now, I believe it’s time to improve myself and learn more at a higher level,” Yang said. “I want to express my gratitude to my club and our fans for their unwavering support.”
In January, Yang signed with Klutch Sports Group, the agency founded by Rich Paul that represents NBA stars like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and De’Aaron Fox. “Klutch Sports Group recommended experienced coaches to come to China to provide guidance in basketball skills, tactics, and living habits. There will be more training plans in the United States,” Yang noted. “I will be ready both mentally and physically.”
Yang made an impact in his senior national team debut during FIBA Asia Cup Qualifying in February 2024, scoring 13 points and dishing out four assists in 19 minutes to help the Chinese team defeat Mongolia 80-49.
With his combination of size—standing at 2.18 meters—and skill, Yang Hansen is poised to become one of the most promising prospects coming out of the Chinese mainland in recent years.
