In-Depth Look at Yang Hanshen’s Six Major Challenges: From Physicality to Two-Way Play, the Young Center Still Has a Long Way to Go Before Reaching Yao Ming’s Level

Welcome to the NBA, Yang Hanshen! It may have only been a preseason game, but for 20-year-old Yang Hanshen, it was a reality check that life in the NBA is anything but easy. In his debut against the Warriors, the 2.16-meter center came off the bench for 21 minutes, shooting just 2-for-5 to tally 4 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist — along with 4 turnovers and 6 fouls before fouling out. Frustration was written all over his face, and understandably so. Yet for Yang, this is only the beginning — the first step in tackling the many challenges that lie ahead in his NBA journey.

Challenge 1: Building Strength and Physicality. Against seasoned veteran Al Horford, the shorter yet stronger Lester Quinones, and the Warriors’ small-ball intensity, Yang looked overwhelmed. He struggled to hold his ground in the paint, often being pushed off position during box-outs — a clear sign that his core strength and lower-body stability need improvement. In today’s NBA, big men are no longer expected to play like traditional post bruisers, but a certain level of bulk and strength remains essential. Yang’s 4 rebounds in 21 minutes are far below expectations for his height. To become a true “rebounding beast,” he must increase his physical resistance and balance without compromising agility.

Challenge 2: Stamina and Conditioning. Despite receiving the third-most minutes on the team, Yang was often seen bent over, gasping for breath after a few possessions — a repeat of what we saw during Summer League. Head coach Chauncey Billups is clearly eager to give him opportunities, but the young center’s endurance is still a work in progress. To survive the NBA’s pace and intensity, Yang must build greater aerobic and muscular endurance.

Challenge 3: Developing an Independent Offensive Game. In the CBA, Yang was primarily a “finisher,” relying on teammates to create opportunities. His self-creation ability remains limited. Although he averaged around 10 points per game during Summer League, most came from simple rolls or put-backs. In his preseason debut, Yang made just 2 of 5 shots, missing both of his three-point attempts. His lack of footwork and confidence in attacking one-on-one made scoring difficult. Unlike predecessors such as Yao Ming, Wang Zhizhi, or Yi Jianlian, Yang’s shooting touch and finesse are still under development. In an era where even centers are expected to stretch the floor, expanding his offensive toolkit is a must.

Challenge 4: Adapting to Team Role and System. Nicknamed “China’s Jokic,” Yang is flattered by the comparison but still far from the reigning MVP’s all-around mastery. While he displayed flashes of playmaking ability in the Summer League — functioning as a “passing hub” from the high post — the NBA’s real competition exposed how steep the climb will be. Against the Warriors, Yang recorded just one assist. The Trail Blazers’ offense revolves heavily around perimeter players like Shaedon Sharpe and Jrue Holiday, with Scoot Henderson and Damian Lillard recovering or resting. This means fewer touches for Yang to orchestrate. He must now focus on adapting to his new role as a complementary center who contributes through screens, defense, and efficient finishing.

Challenge 5: Discipline and Defensive Habits. Yang’s tendency to foul out — both in his CBA debut and now his first NBA preseason game — underscores his defensive inexperience. Four of his six fouls came on offense, ranging from illegal screens to charging calls. On defense, he often reached unnecessarily or committed awkward body contact, allowing opponents like Quinones to exploit his slow footwork. He’ll need to adjust to the NBA’s faster pace and stricter officiating. Improving his defensive positioning, timing, and anticipation will help him stay longer on the floor — and earn his coaches’ trust.

Challenge 6: Mental Resilience and Game Experience. Yang’s frustration during the game was visible — a reminder that mental toughness is just as vital as skill. The good news? Billups has his back. The coach gave Yang meaningful minutes and showed visible encouragement — patting his head after a substitution in the third quarter and again offering a reassuring gesture after his sixth foul. Before the game, Billups had praised his young center: “I’m excited to see him play. This is a big moment — his first NBA game, and it’s against the Warriors and Steph Curry. Yang’s a focused player who’s always working to improve. He’ll learn and get better from this.”

For Yang Hanshen, the path ahead is long but full of opportunity. It’s only the preseason — the perfect time to learn, make mistakes, and grow. The Trail Blazers are rebuilding, giving him the space to develop without the crushing pressure of instant results. He’s young, talented, and determined — but to truly belong in the NBA, Yang must transform every weakness into strength. The next chapter of his journey won’t be written by hype or potential, but by relentless effort and tangible progress on the court.