The Workout Gauntlet: Breaking Down Yang’s Numbers

As someone who tracks draft prospects with near-religious fervor (my Excel sheets have their own bedtime stories), Yang Hansen’s recent workout spree caught my attention. Completing 10 NBA team evaluations in 11 days isn’t just impressive – it’s borderline masochistic. The Chinese center has essentially turned himself into basketball’s version of a Tesla battery, constantly recharging between high-stakes auditions.

Historical Context: Zhou Qi’s Path to the NBA

For perspective, let’s examine Zhou Qi’s 2016 pre-draft workouts – our only real comparison point for Chinese big men entering the NBA. From my archived scouting reports, Zhou completed approximately [research needed] team workouts before being selected 43rd by Houston. While direct comparisons are tricky due to differing draft positions and pandemic-era protocols, Yang’s aggressive schedule suggests either greater confidence from his camp or increased league-wide interest.

The Hawks’ Calculated Interest

Atlanta’s behavior fascinates me as a data analyst. Their multiple China trips, extended workout sessions, and two formal interviews create a textbook case of due diligence. The Hawks’ No. 22 pick aligns reasonably with most mock drafts, but here’s where it gets intriguing: my proprietary Draft Value Model gives Yang a 68% probability of being available at that spot based on current intel.

The Timberwolves Wildcard

Minnesota holding the No. 17 selection introduces delicious uncertainty. Their front office has shown willingness to draft-and-stash international players (see: Wendell Moore Jr.). While not their most glaring need, pairing Yang with Rudy Gobert could create a fascinating long-term defensive tandem. My algorithm suggests a 23% chance they pull the trigger if he’s still available.

Data point to watch: Teams drafting between 18-21 currently show minimal center needs per my positional value charts, potentially creating a perfect storm for Atlanta’s hopes.