by Chen Pingzhe, Cao Yibo and Yang Yang

BEIJING, Jan. 17 (Xinhua) -- In just 23 minutes of play, Yang Hansen, a promising talent in his second CBA season, delivered an efficient performance with 20 points, eight rebounds and two blocks, helping the Qingdao Eagles secure a decisive home win over the Jilin Northeast Tigers on Wednesday night.

The 19-year-old big man scored several paint baskets against Jilin's Kavell Bigby-Williams, further solidifying Qingdao's lead in the third quarter. After the game, the young center sat down with Xinhua News Agency to reflect on his development in his second professional season.

STRENGTH AND AGILITY: A YEAR OF TRANSFORMATION

At 19 years old, Yang has shown significant growth since his rookie season, emerging as a calmer and more dominant force on the court. Qingdao has drawn up more isolation plays tailored to his strengths, and Yang has delivered, averaging 16.4 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.1 steals, and a league-best 2.7 blocks per game.

Yang attributed much of his improvement to a productive offseason focused on physical conditioning. He shed 10 kilograms, going from 127 to 117. This transformation has increased his stamina and agility, boosting his performance on both ends of the floor.

"I've gained a lot of strength, so I'm not getting pushed around as much by opponents," Yang explained. "At the same time, shedding weight has helped me block more shots and be quicker on defensive switches against smaller, faster players."

He also noted improvements in metrics such as squats and bench presses, which have amplified his presence in the paint and sharpened his defensive capabilities.

Yang credited his stint with the Chinese national team at the NBA Summer League, where he faced top-level talent. "The experience gave me clear goals and solidified my commitment to building physical strength," he said. "It's pushed me to pursue extra training sessions, whether with the national team or Qingdao."

A VERSATILE TEAM PLAYER

As modern basketball evolves, traditional big men must adapt to a faster, more dynamic style. Yang has embraced this shift, reflected in his improved three-point shooting.

So far this season, Yang's three-point attempts have risen from 0.6 to 0.9 per game, with his percentage climbing from 22.6% to 34.5%. Becoming a more confident long-range shooter has been a focus for him, and he feels increasingly comfortable taking those shots.

Beyond his offensive skill set, Yang remains dedicated to team basketball. Qingdao currently stands fourth in the CBA rankings, and his ability to facilitate plays and move the ball makes him even more valuable.

"Basketball is a team sport," Yang said. "I focus on making the right decisions for the team, whether it's setting up an open shooter or exploiting a mismatch in the post. I don't try bad shots, but I'll step up whenever the team needs me."

Defensively, Yang has also learned to read the game more effectively. "From positioning to reading screens, I've been picking up more every game and refining my approach," he said.

AMBITIOUS BUT GROUNDED

On Thursday, Yang's domestic agency announced that he has signed with Klutch Sports Group, a major agency founded by Rich Paul, known for representing NBA stars such as LeBron James, Anthony Davis and De'Aaron Fox.

Klutch Sports will provide Yang with a variety of resources, including training with NBA coaches, retired veterans and elite trainers.

Recognized as one of China's most promising basketball prospects, Yang is on track to explore opportunities in higher-level leagues. Nevertheless, he remains focused on his immediate goals.

"Every basketball player dreams of the NBA," Yang said. "But for now, I'm focused on helping Qingdao reach the playoffs and preparing for the national team's Asia Cup qualifiers. I'll keep working hard, and the rest will come when the time is right." Enditem

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