National Icon! Fans Wear CBA Jerseys to Support Han Sen Yang as Coach Billups Guides the 7'2" Forward Courtside

On October 15, in an NBA preseason matchup, the Portland Trail Blazers fell 111–118 to the Golden State Warriors. It was Chinese rising star Han Sen Yang’s third NBA preseason game — and once again, the opponent was the Warriors.
Despite the loss, Yang impressed with solid all-around performance: 9 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block in 20 minutes, shooting 4-of-11 from the field and 1-of-4 from beyond the arc.

What made the night extra special was the sea of Chinese fans wearing Yang’s CBA Qingdao jersey in the stands — some even brought their children, holding up the jersey with pride. Han Sen Yang has truly become a national sports icon.

Before the game, former NBA big man Boban Marjanović praised the 7'2" center-forward:

“He’s going to be the next phenomenon in the NBA. He should’ve been drafted much higher than 16th.”

Yang came out aggressive from the start — scoring a smooth layup after a baseline drive in the first quarter, followed by another basket under the rim in the second. In just 8 minutes of first-half play, he tallied 4 points and 6 rebounds, already matching his debut total against the Warriors.

Chinese journalist Mai Suifeng noted, “I don’t recall Yang playing like this in the CBA. In just a few months with the Blazers, he’s learned the small forward style — corner spacing, fakes, slow three-step drives, underhand finishes. Going to the NBA is clearly paying off.”

In the second half, Yang drained a three-pointer and showcased his elite defensive awareness, frequently communicating with Coach Chauncey Billups on adjustments. Though his later shots didn’t fall, he contributed with a steal, an assist, and a huge block on Anthony Davis.

Compared to his breakout 16-point, 3-block performance against the Kings, his two games versus the Warriors were less efficient — but Yang’s progress, adaptability, and confidence continue to stand out. The young Chinese star is quickly earning global respect.