'Baby Jokic' Yang shines at NBA Summer League

After just three NBA Summer League games, Portland Trail Blazers rookie Yang Hansen is already making waves.

Across his three appearances, Yang has posted a well-rounded stat line with 35 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, and 6 blocks, showcasing his emerging skill set as a modern stretch big, capable of spacing the floor, defending the paint, and facilitating offense.

Despite physical measurements that may not immediately dazzle by NBA standards—standing 7-foot-1 (2.16-meter), with a 7-foot-3 wingspan (2.20-meter) and weighing in at 252 lbs (114.6 kg)—this 20-year-old phenom from China proves Portland's first-round gamble on him a smart bet by his talents on and off the court.

In Tuesday's match against the New Orleans Pelicans, Yang recorded his Summer League season-high 15 points as a starter, helping the Trail Blazers clinch a 93-87 victory.

After the game, he humbly credited his teammates: "We had great chemistry today. Everyone stayed united, and we fought hard to hold the lead down the stretch."

Besides his defensive power in the paint, he electrified the crowd early with a surprising three-pointer, which wasn't exactly part of the game plan: "I kind of went against Coach's play," he said postgame. "He told me to set the screen and roll to the basket, but I was gassed, so I just stopped and launched the three. Thought I'd give him a little surprise."

When asked about facing Pelicans' powerful center Derik Queen—his toughest matchup so far—Yang showed humility and respect: "He is a really solid player. Strong, physical, and an excellent rebounder. There's a lot I can learn from him."

Even Zion Williamson, the Pelicans' former No 1 pick, was impressed watching from the sidelines: "Man, I love his game," Zion told reporters.

Dubbed as "Chinese Jokic" by scouts and fans alike, Yang seems to embrace the playmaking responsibilities: "In the game, Coach had told me go to the high post and be a playmaking player today, be like a hub for everyone, so I just follow Coach's execution and do my job."

He reflected after his debut against Golden State Warriors, where the team claimed Saturday with a 73-106 victory.

Despite being a rookie, Yang already shows the poise of a seasoned floor general—organizing teammates, reading defenses, and initiating plays. His calm presence and tactical mind have earned him the nickname "Coach Yang" among fans and commentators.

On what he thought about leading the team in assists, he gave the credit to others: "My teammates are great shooters and slashers. I just try to get them involved and keep everyone engaged. We're enjoying the game together."