Chinese hoops fans have been waiting for this moment for 23 years. Ever since Yao Ming was selected first overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2002 NBA draft, there has been a longing for another player from China to reach the same level of success. And now, that long wait is finally over. Yang Hansen has become the first Chinese player since Yao to make it to the NBA stage.
Yao Ming was more than just a basketball player. He was a symbol of hope and inspiration for Chinese athletes. He proved that a player from China could not only compete but thrive among the NBA’s elite. He opened the doors for future generations of Chinese players to dream big and aim for the highest level of basketball.
But after Yao, there have been very few Chinese players who have been able to make a mark in the NBA. That is why when Yang Hansen, a 19-year-old from Shanghai, was selected 16th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2021 NBA draft, it was a historic moment for Chinese basketball. Yang made a statement without even stepping foot on the court. His selection showed that Chinese players are not just a rarity in the NBA, but they belong there.
Yang’s journey to the NBA is not a typical one. Unlike most top prospects, Yang was not highly recruited out of high school. He was not a star player on his school team and did not receive much attention from college scouts. But that did not deter him from pursuing his dream of playing in the NBA. He decided to forego college and instead play in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), the top professional league in China.
Playing in the CBA proved to be a wise decision for Yang. It allowed him to gain valuable experience and playing time against seasoned professionals. He also caught the attention of NBA scouts with his impressive performances for the Zhejiang Lions. In the 2020-2021 season, Yang averaged 22.4 points, 5.6 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game. His playmaking ability and basketball IQ stood out, and it was only a matter of time before he was on the radar of NBA teams.
When the Memphis Grizzlies selected Yang with the 16th pick, it was a dream come true for the young guard. He could hardly contain his excitement and emotions, and it was a heartwarming sight for Chinese fans who watched the draft live. Yang became the first Chinese player to be drafted in the first round since Yao Ming. His instant reaction to the news was a testament to his determination and hard work to reach this milestone.
In an interview after being drafted, Yang expressed his gratitude and excitement, saying, “I’m so grateful to the Grizzlies for giving me this opportunity. I will work hard to improve my game and do my best to contribute to the team.” His humble attitude and team-first mentality are qualities that will endear him to not only the Grizzlies organization but also the fans.
Yang Hansen’s selection by the Memphis Grizzlies is a significant step forward for Chinese basketball. It has the potential to open doors for more Chinese players to make it to the NBA in the future. It also highlights the growth and development of basketball in China, which has been evident in recent years. Young Chinese players are now receiving better training and exposure, and it is paying off as we see more players like Yang making a name for themselves.
The 2021 NBA draft will always be remembered for Yang Hansen’s selection, and rightfully so. It is a moment that will inspire young Chinese players to work hard and chase their dreams. Yang’s accomplishment is a reminder that with dedication and determination, anything is possible. It is also a testament to the global reach and impact of the NBA, as it continues to attract top talent from all over the world.
Chinese hoops fans have waited 23 years for this moment, and now they can proudly say that they have one of their own on the NBA stage once again. Yang Hansen’s selection is a significant milestone for Chinese basketball, and it is just the beginning. As he continues to develop and make a name for himself in the NBA, he will inspire a new generation of Chinese players to follow in his footsteps. And who knows, perhaps one day we will see another Chinese player selected first overall, just like Yao Ming did 23 years ago. The future looks bright for Chinese basketball, and it all began with Yang Hansen’s instant reaction to being
