Yang Hansen Leads Blazers to Victory with Three-Point Shooting
Introduction
In a thrilling matchup between the Portland Trail Blazers and the New Orleans Pelicans, Yang Hansen once again proved himself as a three-point shooting machine. The Blazers came out on top, thanks in no small part to Hansen's incredible performance.
Skill and Precision
Hansen has been a key player for the Blazers since his debut, and his skills were on full display in this game. He scored an impressive 35 points, with 9 of those coming from behind the arc. Hansen's precision and accuracy from the three-point line make him a valuable asset to the team.
Consistency is Key
This is not the first time Hansen has shown his prowess as a three-point shooter. In fact, he has been consistently making an impact for the Blazers throughout the season. His ability to knock down threes in crucial moments has often been the difference between a win and a loss for the team.
About the People Mentioned
Yang Hansen
Yang Hansen is a Chinese professional basketball player known for his versatility as a big man with playmaking skills. He began his career with the Qingdao Eagles in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), where he earned recognition as Rookie of the Year and was named Defensive Player of the Year in 2024. Over the last two seasons, he was selected as a CBA All-Star. In his pre-draft season, Yang averaged 16.2 points, 10 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game across 53 games, showcasing his defensive prowess and scoring ability near the rim[2][4]. Internationally, Yang has represented China at youth and senior levels. Notably, he was named to the All-Tournament Team at the 2022 FIBA U18 Asia Cup and played in the 2023 FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup, where he averaged 12.6 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. In senior competition, including the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers, he has posted solid numbers with 8.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game[1][5]. Yang is particularly noted for his creative passing and playmaking as a center, with scouts highlighting his ability to make quick, purposeful decisions and effective screens. While his defense at the NBA level remains a question due to the faster pace and higher level of athleticism, he is considered a promising talent with potential upside. NBA insiders have even drawn comparisons to Nikola Jokic for his playmaking from the five position[3][4]. Currently, Yang Hansen is gaining attention as a prospect transitioning to the NBA, where his size, touch around the rim, and developing shooting range could make him an impactful player. His recent performances in the CBA and international competitions position him as a rising figure in professional basketball from China[4][5].
About the Organizations Mentioned
Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers are a professional basketball team based in Portland, Oregon, competing in the NBA’s Western Conference Northwest Division. Founded in 1970 as an expansion franchise, the team struggled initially, missing the playoffs in its first six seasons. Their breakthrough came in 1977 when, led by coach Jack Ramsay and star Bill Walton, they won their only NBA championship to date after a dramatic comeback in the Finals against the Philadelphia 76ers[1][2][3]. The Trail Blazers’ identity is closely tied to “Rip City,” a passionate fan culture emphasizing unselfish play and strong defense. The team made further NBA Finals appearances in 1990 and 1992, led by stars such as Clyde Drexler, but fell short of additional titles. The franchise has made the playoffs 37 times in 54 seasons, reflecting sustained competitiveness[3]. Ownership has played a pivotal role in the Blazers' business and cultural footprint. Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, owned the team from 1988 until his death in 2018, investing significant resources and passion into the franchise[1][4]. Currently, the team is transitioning to new ownership led by Texas businessman Tom Dundon, who plans to keep the franchise in Portland and develop its entertainment value, signaling stability and future growth in both sports and business dimensions[4]. Key figures across the Blazers’ history include Hall of Famers Bill Walton, Clyde Drexler, and recent star Damian Lillard, who is the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. The team is known for its distinctive logo representing basketball itself rather than the city or team name, symbolizing its unique brand identity[1][3]. In recent years, the Blazers have been competitive playoff contenders, adapting to evolving NBA formats such as the play-in tournament. Coaching changes, including the hiring of Chauncey Billups in 2021, mark ongoing efforts to build a championship-caliber team. The franchise’s legacy
New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans are a professional basketball team based in New Orleans, Louisiana, competing in the NBA's Western Conference. The franchise originally began as the Charlotte Hornets in 1988 before relocating to New Orleans in 2002. After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the team temporarily played as the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets for two seasons before returning full-time to New Orleans. In 2013, the franchise rebranded as the New Orleans Pelicans, adopting a name reflecting Louisiana’s state bird and regional identity[1]. The Pelicans have experienced varying success over their history. A franchise highlight came in the 2007-08 season, led by star point guard Chris Paul, when they achieved their best record of 56–26 and won their first division title. The team has often been a developing ground for young talent, with recent seasons featuring rising stars and draft picks. However, their performance has fluctuated, as seen in recent records hovering below .500, including a 21-61 season in 2024-25 and a slow start in 2025-26[3]. Currently, the Pelicans are integrating promising players like Jordan Poole, who contributed 17 points in his 2025-26 debut, and are managing injury challenges affecting key players including point guard Dejounte Murray (Achilles injury). The team’s offense ranks competitively mid-tier in the league, averaging 119 points per game but allowing 124 points defensively, indicating areas for improvement[2]. Beyond basketball, the Pelicans are significant to New Orleans’ economy and culture, blending sports business with local identity. Their home, the Smoothie King Center, is a hub for sports and entertainment in the city, illustrating how the franchise supports both community engagement and commercial growth. The Pelicans’ ongoing efforts to build a competitive roster and deepen fan engagement position them as a dynamic organization within both NBA sports and the broader business landscape of professional athletics[
