In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, fresh talent often sparks excitement and curiosity, especially when comparisons to established superstars start flying. This summer, one such story has captivated fans and analysts alike: the rise of Portland Trail Blazers rookie Yang Hansen, a 7-foot-1 center from China, who has been earning the nickname "Chinese Jokic" due to his striking resemblance in playing style to Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic.
Hansen, selected 16th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft after Portland acquired the pick via a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, has been turning heads since his Summer League debut in Las Vegas. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has drawn immediate comparisons to Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP known for his exceptional passing, court vision, and versatility. Hansen’s performance in the Summer League has been nothing short of impressive, averaging 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game, while shooting 45.7% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range over four games.
But the story goes beyond statistics. Hansen openly admires Jokic and has expressed a heartfelt wish to meet him on the court and receive a picture and autograph. During the Summer League, when asked what he would want from the Nuggets star when they eventually face off, Hansen simply said, "Picture and signature, please." This humble yet earnest request quickly caught the attention of the NBA community.
On July 22, 2025, the NBA shared a video of Hansen’s wish with Jokic, who was on a promotional tour in China for his 361° sneaker line. Jokic’s response was characteristically witty and self-aware. "He’s good. I think I’m happy when he gets in his prime that I’m going to be out of the league probably," Jokic remarked, acknowledging Hansen’s talent while humorously hinting at his own career trajectory. The Nuggets star added with a grin, "Yeah, he’s talented. Yes, we can have a picture or whatever he wants only if he plays bad against me. Let’s say like that if I destroy him and I score a lot of points then yes. If he do that, no." This playful challenge set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying matchup in the coming NBA season.
Jokic’s remarks not only reflect his competitive spirit but also his respect for Hansen’s potential. The nickname "Chinese Jokic" is not merely about physical resemblance. Hansen showcases a rare blend of skills for a player of his size, including flashy passing, soft touch around the rim, and an ability to make others better on the court. His game also includes potent shot-blocking and powerful dunking, reminiscent of legendary Chinese center Yao Ming, adding another layer to his growing reputation.
Ronnie Burrell, Hansen’s Summer League coach, described him as "might be the most popular guy in Las Vegas," highlighting the rookie’s charm and the excitement he has generated. Burrell praised Hansen’s grace and joy in handling the pressures of international play, noting, "I got to play basketball internationally, and I understand what it’s like to play as a foreigner. To watch the grace and the joy he handles it with is impressive. I wasn't able to do that, and I was older than him when I was traveling abroad. I’m amazed by him." Such high praise from a coach familiar with the international game underscores Hansen’s unique presence.
Portland’s front office shares this enthusiasm. General manager Joe Cronin has lauded Hansen’s basketball IQ and his ability to elevate teammates. "I think in these playoffs, one thing I've really noticed is the way these successful teams think the game," Cronin said. "Their basketball IQ, their skill sets, their ability to make others and each other better is a critical component to winning these games. And that's what Yang brings to this. His basketball IQ is very, very high and he makes others better. That’s what we’re trying to do here is find guys that help supplement and build each other up and it’s something that he thrives at." This endorsement suggests Hansen will have ample opportunity to contribute, especially as the Trail Blazers continue their rebuilding phase.
Indeed, with star guard Damian Lillard sidelined for the season due to an Achilles injury, Hansen’s path to meaningful minutes is clearer. The Trail Blazers have also waived veteran DeAndre Ayton to make room for Hansen’s development, signaling their commitment to nurturing the rookie as a foundational piece.
While Hansen’s ascent is thrilling, it’s important to remember that he still has a long road ahead to reach Jokic’s elite level. Jokic himself has subtly hinted at his retirement timeline, joking that by the time Hansen hits his prime, he might already be out of the league. At 30 years old, Jokic remains in his prime but acknowledges the inevitability of the NBA’s physical demands. "I’m happy when he gets in his prime, that I’m going to be out of the league, probably," Jokic said, adding a touch of humility amid his dominance.
The upcoming season promises to be a fascinating showcase of this budding rivalry. Fans will eagerly watch as Hansen tries to live up to the lofty expectations and Jokic maintains his throne among the NBA’s elite. The playful banter between the two has already added a humanizing and entertaining layer to the league’s narrative.
For NBA enthusiasts worldwide, especially those in China where basketball’s popularity continues to soar, Hansen’s emergence symbolizes the growing globalization of the sport. His journey from a promising draft pick to a potentially transformative player will be closely followed, with every game offering a glimpse of whether the "Chinese Jokic" can carve out his own legacy.
As the Trail Blazers and Nuggets prepare to face off in the 2025-26 season, the matchup between Hansen and Jokic will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated storylines. Will Hansen earn that coveted picture and autograph? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the NBA’s future is bright, and the playful challenge set by Jokic has only made the game more intriguing.
