Portland Trail Blazers rookie center Yang Hansen showcased an impressive performance during an NBA preseason game against the Sacramento Kings at the Moda Center on Friday, October 10, 2025. After a challenging start to his preseason journey, Hansen illuminated the court in a thrilling third-quarter display that underscored his potential and left fans excited about what lies ahead.
Despite having faced some struggles in his debut, where he fouled out and turned the ball over multiple times, Hansen turned the tables during this exhibition, helping the Blazers clinch a narrow 124-123 victory against Sacramento. His exceptional third-quarter performance prompted Blazers guard Caleb Love to praise him, declaring, “He’s a star in the making.”
Fans began to rally behind Hansen as he took to the court midway through the third quarter. Within just over a minute, he splashed in a corner three-pointer, followed it up with another three, and showcased his agility with a right-handed scoop shot. The highlight of the night came when he executed a dazzling behind-the-back dribble to maneuver past Drew Eubanks, finishing off the play with a layup that sent the Moda Center crowd into a frenzy.
In that exhilarating stretch, Hansen reflected a sense of relief and liberation, stating, “I think that’s the moment I let it go.” He ended the quarter with a stellar stat line, amassing 14 points, two rebounds, and one block. His final tally for the game stood at 16 points, four rebounds, and three blocks.
While his performance in the first half was shaky, with moments where he struggled defensively and missed opportunities, Hansen’s resilience shone through as he responded positively after halftime. Coach Chauncy Billups was impressed by Hansen’s growth and expressed relief to see him bounce back after the previous game’s disappointment. “He cares so much,” Billups said, emphasizing the importance of encouraging Hansen to have a short memory and focus on his development.
Hansen himself acknowledged that he has room for improvement, saying, “Almost everything,” when asked about his weaknesses, but he is learning and honing his skills diligently. The 7-foot-2 center’s outstanding talent and determination have sparked significant excitement among the Blazers’ coaching staff and fans alike.
As Hansen continues to refine his game, expectations grow around his potential contributions to the team. The thrilling moments from his performance provide a hopeful outlook for the season, suggesting that he may prove to be a key player for the Blazers as they navigate the challenges of the NBA season ahead.