In an impressive showcase at the Summer League 2025, Yang Hansen has emerged as a player to watch, drawing comparisons to NBA superstar Nikola Jokic with his exceptional passing skills and court vision. The undrafted rookie, hailing from Mississippi, has quickly captured attention with his ability to read defenses and deliver precise assists, making him a standout performer for the Portland Trail Blazers.
During the game against the New York Knicks, Hansen displayed his playmaking prowess, exemplified by a series of well-timed assists that kept the offense flowing. One highlight included a beautiful back cut that set up teammate Jaden Carton for an easy layup, demonstrating Hansen’s innate understanding of spacing and movement on the court. With five points in the game, Hansen not only contributed on the scoreboard but also served as a facilitator, showcasing the potential to carve out a role in the Blazers’ rotation.
Coaches and analysts have praised Hansen’s basketball IQ and awareness, noting how he effectively navigates the middle of the floor to make the right reads in fast-paced situations. His ability to handle the ball and create opportunities for teammates has been a focal point of his development, with many believing that he could significantly impact Portland’s offensive schemes this season.
In another exciting moment, Hansen showcased his patience in the post, drawing a double team and skillfully finding an open teammate for a well-executed assist. This ability to remain calm under pressure and make sharp decisions is reminiscent of Jokic’s playing style, raising expectations for Hansen’s future contributions to the team.
Aside from his passing, Hansen’s performance also highlighted his potential for scoring. He demonstrated effective movement without the ball, utilizing pin-down screens and dribble handoffs to create open shots. As he continues to develop his strength and shooting abilities, Hansen could become a dual threat on the court, able to both score and facilitate.
As the Summer League progresses, Hansen’s consistent performance has caught the eyes of NBA executives, including prominent figures such as the New Orleans Pelicans’ president of basketball operations. With each game, he is proving that he can not only compete at the NBA level but also thrive in it, making a compelling case for his inclusion in the Blazers’ roster for the upcoming season.
Overall, Yang Hansen’s impressive play during the Summer League has set the stage for what could be an exciting rookie season. With his unique blend of passing skills and court awareness, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how he develops as he transitions into the professional ranks. If his performances continue at this level, Hansen may well establish himself as a key player for Portland, potentially following in the footsteps of the league’s elite playmakers.