Yang Hansen Shines! A Surefire NBA Second-Round Pick! Qingdao Team Releases Him Quickly...

Yang Hansen has made quite an impression during his first stint in the NBA Summer League, drawing mixed reactions from Chinese fans but high praise from international observers. His performances over three games have varied, but the potential he's shown has sparked significant attention.

Summer League Performance Breakdown

In his first game against the Sacramento Kings, Yang came off the bench and played 16 minutes, shooting 3-for-3 from the field, scoring 8 points, grabbing 3 rebounds, and dishing out 2 assists while committing 3 turnovers. In his second outing, facing the Charlotte Hornets, Yang started and logged 21 minutes, going 4-for-8 from the floor, tallying 12 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 7 turnovers. His third game against the San Antonio Spurs saw him start again, playing 26 minutes but struggling with his shot, going 0-for-5 from the field, scoring 6 points, pulling down 8 rebounds, and committing 4 turnovers.

Mixed Reactions and High Praise

Domestic fans have been critical, with many doubting his NBA potential based on these performances. However, international fans and analysts have been more positive. Foreign commentators, particularly those in the NBA community, have been effusive in their praise. Some have even gone as far as to say Yang is better than the Memphis Grizzlies' 9th overall pick in this year's draft, Zhou Zhihou, or liken him to a Chinese version of Marc Gasol.

Hoop Herald, a prominent American media outlet, created a highlight reel of Yang's Summer League performances, comparing his playstyle to Joel Embiid. This video has garnered over 2 million views and more than 13,000 likes, indicating significant interest and approval. Notably, former NBA player and internet personality Nick Young went as far as to claim that Yang Hansen could be the number one overall pick in next year's NBA draft—a statement that, while likely exaggerated, underscores the impact Yang has made.

Scouts Take Notice

More grounded evaluations come from NBA scouts, such as those from the New Orleans Pelicans, who believe Yang Hansen will undoubtedly be drafted, with the potential to be a first-round pick. Scouts from various teams have shown interest in Yang, inquiring about his background and potential.

Despite the skepticism from Chinese fans, the recognition from NBA scouts and analysts is what truly matters for Yang's future. His successful Summer League stint has laid the groundwork for a strong showing in next year's NBA draft.

Qingdao Team’s Support and Future Plans

Qingdao Eagles, Yang’s team in China, is already planning for his future. Head coach Liu Weiwei has revealed that they have arranged for Yang to train with a specialist in Australia and participate in an NBA elite training camp in the region for nearly a month. This move is aimed at refining Yang's skills and preparing him for the next level.

Some may question why Yang isn’t training in the U.S. directly, but the rationale is clear. The current American approach to developing centers often focuses on turning them into either rim-runners or stretch bigs, which doesn't align with the vision for Yang as a foundational player. The ideal template for him is someone like Nikola Jokić, a versatile, all-around big man.

Training and Development in Australia

The NBA elite training camp in Australia has produced several Chinese talents, including Cui Yongxi, who is currently with the Portland Trail Blazers. The camp offers a cutting-edge training regimen and the chance to compete against some of the most talented young players globally. Additionally, it provides an immersive English-language environment, crucial for Yang’s development off the court.

Yang’s biggest hurdle at the moment is his English proficiency. Unlike Cui Yongxi, who can communicate effortlessly, Yang still struggles with the language barrier. Qingdao has provided him with a team translator and language lessons, but there’s no substitute for the rapid improvement that comes from being in an English-speaking environment.

Looking Ahead to the NBA Draft

Given the feedback from scouts and the international praise he’s received, it’s reasonable to expect that Yang Hansen will hear his name called during next year’s NBA draft. Since Zhou Qi and Wang Zhelin were selected in 2016, no Chinese players have been drafted, making Yang’s potential selection a significant milestone.

The success of Yang Hansen could herald a new beginning for Chinese basketball on the international stage. The sport in China is in dire need of a resurgence, and Yang’s journey represents a beacon of hope. His development and eventual entry into the NBA could inspire a new generation of Chinese players and help restore the country's standing in international basketball.

In conclusion, Yang Hansen's Summer League performance has established him as a serious NBA prospect. With the backing of his team and a clear path for further development, Yang is well on his way to making a significant impact in the NBA. The road ahead is challenging, but the foundation he has built this summer is a promising start.