7’1 Chinese player Yang Hansen is showing off his skills at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine being held at the Wintrust Arena and Marriott Marquis in Chicago. At 19, scouts are impressed with his basketball IQ and passing ability. He is one of 75 players invited from May 11–18.
According to his interpreter Chris Liu, "He's happy here... he's game to compete with everyone. He's really enjoying it." Yang also shared his admiration for Chinese NBA legend Yao Ming, "Yao Ming is my idol. I want to emulate him and learn from him."
Last season in the Chinese Basketball Association, Yang averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game — stats that showcase his all-around skills on the court.
Some observers have compared him to Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets due to his combination of size, intelligence, and playmaking skills.
As the NBA Draft Combine continues, athletic tests such as vertical jump, bench press, agility drills, and others are still being conducted. For now, Yang Hansen continues to shine.
