The 2025 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago was filled with talent, but one name stole the spotlight in unexpected fashion: Hansen Yang, the towering 7-foot-2 center from China. Arriving as a relatively unknown prospect to most American fans, Yang turned heads with a surprising blend of agility, skill, and intensity — proving he was far more than just a tall body. In short, Hansen Yang was in his BAG all week long.
From the moment Yang stepped onto the floor for measurements, he drew attention. His 7’2” height and 7’6” wingspan already made scouts raise their eyebrows. But what truly sparked conversation were the agility drills. Despite his size, Yang moved with fluidity rarely seen in players that tall. His footwork was nimble, his lateral quickness was respectable, and he showcased impressive body control for someone with such a long frame. It wasn’t just his tools — it was how he used them.
During the scrimmages, Yang let his game do the talking. On offense, he flashed an array of skills that suggested he’s far more modern than the stereotypical rim-protecting big. He hit a pair of smooth midrange jumpers, confidently stepped into a corner three, and even handled the ball in transition. In one play that went viral on social media, Yang grabbed a rebound, dribbled coast-to-coast, and delivered a euro-step layup over a smaller defender. That single moment summed up the buzz: Hansen Yang isn’t just big — he’s skilled.
Defensively, Yang was a presence in the paint. His shot-blocking instincts were sharp, as he routinely altered shots without fouling. He communicated well with teammates and showed the ability to switch onto smaller players in spurts — not something you often expect from a player of his stature. While he still has areas to improve, such as defensive rebounding and upper-body strength, his performance at the combine made it clear: the foundation is there.
Off the court, Yang also impressed with his poise. Speaking through a translator, he expressed a desire to represent China on the global stage and prove that he can compete at the highest level. It was a humble but confident message — one that resonated with international scouts and team executives alike.
Before the combine, Yang was projected as a second-round stash or long-term developmental pick. After this performance, his draft stock is on the rise. Several teams are reportedly reevaluating their boards, with some even considering him as a late first-round sleeper. His rare combination of size, mobility, and potential upside makes him a fascinating prospect in a league always hungry for the next unicorn big man.
If the NBA Draft Combine was a stage, Hansen Yang stole the show. He didn’t just rely on his size — he showcased his bag in full: handles, jumpers, shot-blocking, and vision. And now, with momentum on his side, Hansen Yang might just be one of the most intriguing names to watch come draft night.
