Yang Hansen Chooses NBA Focus Over Asia Cup, Receives CBA Support for Development

Following his NBA Summer League experience, 20-year-old Chinese center Yang Hansen has returned to Qingdao, Shandong Province. He previously played two seasons with the Qingdao Eagles before being drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers. His return initially sparked hopes of him joining the Chinese national basketball team for the upcoming FIBA Asia Cup, especially with star center Zhou Qi sidelined due to injury.

However, the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) announced that Yang's request to skip national team duties at the Asia Cup had been granted. The CBA cited the importance of Yang's development and China's long-term basketball goals as reasons for allowing him to focus on preparing for the new NBA season. The CBA emphasized its support for young players training and improving in overseas leagues, hoping Yang will excel and contribute to Chinese basketball on the world stage.

In a statement, Yang expressed gratitude and regret. He acknowledged the valuable lessons learned during the Summer League and the conflict with preseason training camp, preventing him from joining the national team. He highlighted the support he's received from Chinese basketball in pursuing his NBA dream and expressed his commitment to representing his country.

Yang, known as China's Nikola Jokic by fans, impressed during the NBA Summer League, averaging 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game. While back in China for visa and personal matters, he is expected to attend the CBA draft event in Qingdao as a guest. The national team, preparing for the FIBA Asia Cup, is likely to feature a younger squad due to injuries to key players.

The Chinese men's basketball team is in Group C for the Asia Cup, facing Saudi Arabia, India, and Jordan. They will also play warm-up games against Venezuela and Montenegro. Head coach Guo Shiqiang emphasized the Asia Cup's importance in the lead-up to the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. He also highlighted the value of high-intensity warm-up games.

A 23-man squad was announced in June, with Guo set to select the final 12 players. Zhou Qi is undergoing treatment for a back injury. A commentator suggested lowering expectations for the national team's performance at the Asia Cup, given the absence of key players, but emphasized the opportunity to focus on the development of younger players.

Yang, despite missing the Asia Cup, stated he will follow the team's games closely. He is focused on preparing for the preseason training camp and aims to make significant progress. He expressed his commitment to returning to the national team as a more developed player and contributing to Chinese basketball on the global stage.