After the whirlwind of the NBA Draft, Rip City is just starting to know Portland Trail Blazers rookie Yang Hansen. The 7-foot-1 center from China seemed like more mystery than man when the organization shocked experts and fans by taking him with the No. 16 overall pick on Wednesday. Less than 48 hours later, just off first impressions alone: He comes across as an easy guy to root for.
The Trail Blazers held Hansen’s introductory press conference with local media on Friday morning at the team’s Tualatin practice facility. Hansen took the podium with Portland general manager Joe Cronin and head coach Chauncey Billups on his right.