Chinese basketball center Yang Hansen officially confirms entry into 2025 NBA Draft

Chinese center Yang Hansen officially confirmed his decision to enter the 2025 NBA Draft on Saturday.

"This is the most important decision in my life. I want to showcase myself on a bigger stage," said the 19-year-old. "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 continued to reflect on his earlier development opportunities: "I also attended the NBA Summer League with our national team last year. It was a vital opportunity for me to gain experience."

During the ongoing Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) Playoffs, Yang demonstrated his talent by helping lead the Qingdao Eagles to the quarterfinals, before bowing out against the top-seeded Guangsha Lions 3-2 in a best-of-five series.

"Now, I believe it's time to improve myself and learn more at a higher level. I want to express my gratitude to my club and our fans for their unwavering support," added the 2.18-meter center.

In January, Yang's domestic representatives announced that he had signed with Rich Paul's Klutch Sports Group, a prominent agency known for representing NBA stars like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and De'Aaron Fox.

"Klutch Sports Group recommended experienced coaches coming 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."

During the 2024-25 CBA regular season, Yang averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, three assists, and one steal per game. He also tallied an impressive 2.6 blocks per outing to lead the league. He was named to the All-CBA First Team and earned Top Young Rising Star honors for the second year in a row, while also being selected to the starting line-up at the All-Star Game.

Yang made an impact in his senior national team debut during FIBA Asia Cup Qualifying in February 2024 as well, scoring 13 points and distributing four assists in 19 minutes to help China thrash Mongolia 80-49.