Yang Hansen is losing no time exhibiting he belongs in Portland. Throughout an interview on the 2K26 NBA Summer time League, the Path Blazers rookie middle tapped his wrist in a assured nod to Damian Lillard’s signature celebration, declaring he’s prepared for Dame Time. It was a small gesture with huge that means, capturing his pleasure to hitch forces with the returning franchise legend.
Hansen’s journey to Portland started on draft evening when he was chosen sixteenth general by the Memphis Grizzlies. The Path Blazers shortly made a transfer to accumulate him, seeing uncommon potential within the 7-foot-1 middle. Recognized for his passing instincts, rim safety, and rising vary, Hansen was probably the most intriguing prospects within the draft.
His mixture of measurement, ability, and really feel for the sport stood out throughout pre-draft exercises and has carried over into his early showings in summer time league play.
In his first few video games, Hansen has already flashed the instruments that made him a first-round choose. He posted 10 factors, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, and a pair of blocks in his debut, adopted by a powerful outing that included 15 factors on 6-of-13 taking pictures. He strikes nicely for his measurement and reveals poise on each ends of the ground. Together with his capacity to stretch the ground and move out of the publish, Hansen provides Portland a contemporary frontcourt piece who can complement a star guard.
That star, after all, is Damian Lillard. After a season away, Lillard is formally again in Rip Metropolis. He signed a three-year deal to return to the staff the place he grew to become a six-time All-NBA performer and probably the most beloved gamers in franchise historical past. Though he’ll miss the upcoming season whereas recovering from an Achilles damage, Lillard’s return has reenergized the Blazers and their fan base.
The concept of Lillard mentoring Hansen and ultimately sharing the ground with him has followers excited. Lillard is thought for elevating these round him, and Hansen’s versatility could possibly be the proper complement. Together with his capacity to play out of the excessive publish, set sensible screens, and knock down open photographs, Hansen provides Portland a younger huge man who suits the type Lillard thrives in.
Past the on-court pairing, there’s a sense of symbolism in Hansen’s wrist faucet. It isn’t only a tribute to Dame Time, however an indication that Hansen understands the tradition and expectations in Portland. He desires to be a part of what Lillard has constructed and assist take it additional. That sort of perspective issues for a staff in transition, particularly with younger gamers entering into bigger roles.
Hansen’s early performances have given Portland another excuse to be hopeful. With DeAndre Ayton now not within the image and Donovan Clingan anticipated to begin, Hansen might start his profession in a backup function. However his court docket consciousness, vitality, and maturity recommend he might develop into an even bigger function before anticipated.
For now, Portland is watching a brand new chapter unfold. Lillard is house, and a promising rookie is exhibiting flashes. And the bond between the 2 has already begun to type. Hansen’s nod to Dame Time is greater than a spotlight; it’s a message. He is able to run with one of the best; and in Portland, meaning embracing the second, seizing the highlight, and delivering when it issues most.