2025 NBA Draft Shocker: Yang Hansen Selected

The 2025 NBA Draft definitely had its moments, particularly when the Trail Blazers made a surprising move just past the midway point. In a trade deal with the Grizzlies, Portland selected Yang Hansen, a center from China, with the 16th pick—an unexpected turn for many in the basketball community.

Most draft experts didn’t see Hansen as a first-round pick, which is why Portland’s choice raised a few eyebrows. Analysts were left wondering about the decision to take a 7-foot-1 player at that spot.

CBS analyst Matt Nolander expressed his doubts about Hansen’s high selection, saying, “If Egor Denin going to Brooklyn was a 6.8 on the shocking scale, this one would hit 9.5.” He suggested that many folks in the league were messaging each other, confused by the selection.

Reactions from NBA Executives

One NBA executive summed it up succinctly, remarking, “It’s the wildest pick I’ve ever seen. Those jobs out there are on the line.” Meanwhile, ESPN’s Shams Charania also commented on the surprising nature of the draft choice.

Interestingly enough, Hansen hadn’t even made it onto the mock drafts circulating before the event.

As the first player from China to be drafted since Zhou Qi and Wang Zhelin in 2016, Hansen’s selection carries some weight. He’s been playing in the CBA for the last two seasons, averaging 15.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.4 blocks over 96 games.

According to NBA.com draft profiles, Hansen has a lot of potential but needs to bulk up to reach his greatest capabilities.

Although it remains uncertain how quickly he’ll adjust to the NBA, for at least one night, the Trail Blazers left everyone questioning their decision.