Hanson Yang Officially Announced to NBA: First Chinese Player in All-Star Game in 15 Years

Congratulations to Hanson Yang! The NBA has officially announced his selection for the 2026 All-Star Rookie Challenge as a G-League player, marking the return of a Chinese player to the NBA All-Star stage for the first time in 15 years.

Doc Rivers commented: “They need to give it their all and show they have what it takes to stay in the league.”

This season, Hanson Yang has played 8 games for the “Ripped City Mix” in the G-League, averaging 17 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game. His comprehensive stats earned him the All-Star selection based on merit, with only minor benefits from the Chinese market’s attention.

Both Klutch Sports and the Portland Trail Blazers officially congratulated Yang on his All-Star Rookie Challenge selection. Fans are hopeful that next year he can return as a second-year NBA rookie for another All-Star appearance.

The first-year rookies in this All-Star game include Flag (Mavericks), Kneipell (Hornets), Ejikum (76ers), Coward (Grizzlies), Quinn (Pelicans), Trey Johnson (Wizards), Harper (Spurs), Boyles (Raptors), Jemin (Nets), and Fells (Pelicans).

Second-year players include Klingen (Blazers), Sale (Wizards), Shepherd (Rockets), Buzelis (Bulls), Castle (Spurs), KeShawn George (Wizards), Ajayi Mitchell (Thunder), Cam Spence (Grizzlies), Jalen Tyson (Cavaliers), Veal (Heat), and Wells (Grizzlies).

It’s worth noting that this year’s first-year rookies are particularly strong and popular. Several have already become key players for their teams, such as Flag and Kneipell, both averaging nearly 19 points per game this season—a true showcase of the new generation of NBA stars.