The Portland Trail Blazers faced heavy criticism for selecting Yang Hansen with the 16th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft—a move that caught many off guard. Despite the backlash, agent Rich Paul wasn’t surprised to hear Yang’s name called that early.
Known for his knack for navigating the NBA landscape, Paul’s involvement as Yang’s agent speaks volumes. Hansen’s selection was widely viewed as a reach, with some projecting him as a second-round prospect. In fact, he wasn’t even invited to the green room and had to make the long walk from the stands to the stage to greet Commissioner Adam Silver.
Still, Paul appears confident in his client, hinting that Yang might end up being one of the draft’s biggest steals.
Rich Paul Backs Yang Hansen, Praises Blazers’ Bold Pick
Super-agent Rich Paul, founder of Klutch Sports and close friend of LeBron James, is fully backing Yang Hansen and the Portland Trail Blazers after their surprising choice in the 2025 NBA Draft. Though many questioned taking Yang at No. 16, Paul wasn’t shocked.
“We knew he was rising,” Paul said. “The Blazers are doing well with him, and Hansen deserves a lot of credit. He’s a good player. It may have surprised others, but not me.”
Despite early criticism, Yang’s potential has sparked intrigue. Nicknamed the “Chinese Jokic”—a high bar—he’s shown a willingness to break free from traditional molds.
“He worked hard the entire way,” Paul added. “He had a great team around him, including the group from China led by Jim Jiang. He’s been a pleasure to work with, and I’m excited for him.”
Rich Paul Backs Yang Hansen, Praises Blazers’ Bold Pick
Klutch Sports founder Rich Paul is standing firmly behind Yang Hansen and the Portland Trail Blazers after their unexpected selection of the Chinese prospect at No. 16 in the 2025 NBA Draft. While the pick drew widespread criticism, Paul wasn’t surprised.
“We knew he was rising,” Paul said. “The Blazers are doing right by him, and Hansen deserves credit. He’s a good player. It might’ve shocked others, but not me.”
Though some see the “Chinese Jokic” nickname as overly optimistic, Yang’s versatility and willingness to break from rigid development paths have drawn interest.
“He worked hard throughout the process,” Paul added. “He had a great team, including the group from China led by Jim Jiang. He’s been a pleasure to work with, and I’m excited for him.”
Source: NBA Analysis
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