On October 15, in an NBA preseason matchup, the Portland Trail Blazers fell 111–118 to the Golden State Warriors. It was Chinese rising star Han Sen Yang’s third NBA preseason game — and once again, the opponent was the Warriors.
Despite the loss, Yang impressed with solid all-around performance: 9 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block in 20 minutes, shooting 4-of-11 from the field and 1-of-4 from beyond the arc.
What made the night extra special was the sea of Chinese fans wearing Yang’s CBA Qingdao jersey in the stands — some even brought their children, holding up the jersey with pride. Han Sen Yang has truly become a national sports icon.
Before the game, former NBA big man Boban Marjanović praised the 7'2" center-forward:
“He’s going to be the next phenomenon in the NBA. He should’ve been drafted much higher than 16th.”
Yang came out aggressive from the start — scoring a smooth layup after a baseline drive in the first quarter, followed by another basket under the rim in the second. In just 8 minutes of first-half play, he tallied 4 points and 6 rebounds, already matching his debut total against the Warriors.
Chinese journalist Mai Suifeng noted, “I don’t recall Yang playing like this in the CBA. In just a few months with the Blazers, he’s learned the small forward style — corner spacing, fakes, slow three-step drives, underhand finishes. Going to the NBA is clearly paying off.”
In the second half, Yang drained a three-pointer and showcased his elite defensive awareness, frequently communicating with Coach Chauncey Billups on adjustments. Though his later shots didn’t fall, he contributed with a steal, an assist, and a huge block on Anthony Davis.
Compared to his breakout 16-point, 3-block performance against the Kings, his two games versus the Warriors were less efficient — but Yang’s progress, adaptability, and confidence continue to stand out. The young Chinese star is quickly earning global respect.
