YANG Hanshen Rises to 34th in NBA Draft Mock: Hornets Eye Chinese Big Man

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YANG Hanshen Climbs the Draft Board

The latest update from NBADraft.net has sent ripples through the international basketball scene: Chinese center YANG Hanshen is now projected as the 34th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft — selected by the Charlotte Hornets. That’s two spots up from last week, a move that reflects growing confidence in his readiness for the pro level.

Let me be clear: this isn’t just another mock draft fluctuation. It’s data-backed momentum built on actual performance during team workouts across Los Angeles. And yes, I’ve reviewed film on every player ranked ahead of him — this ranking holds up under scrutiny.

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Why Now? The Data Behind the Rise

YANG hasn’t been idle since returning from his U.S. tryouts. He’s been working with strength coaches, refining footwork patterns, and demonstrating advanced defensive positioning — traits rarely seen at this stage for a player of his size (7’1”). His lateral quickness during drills caught multiple scouts off guard.

What stood out most was his ability to switch onto guards without sacrificing rim protection — a rare blend in today’s game. The Hornets’ interest makes sense: they’re rebuilding around young talent and value versatility over raw athleticism.

And let’s not ignore context: he was already projected in the late first or early second round across major outlets. This elevation confirms that he’s not just “a project” — he’s becoming a real prospect.

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Global Talent Pipeline: A Shift in Strategy?

Look at how often we see non-American big men being drafted these days — players from Serbia, Lithuania, Nigeria, Canada… now even China? That shift isn’t random.

The league is evolving toward smarter drafting: efficiency over hype. Teams no longer want players who can dunk but can’t defend or pass under pressure.

YANG fits that model perfectly:

• High basketball IQ (he reads screens like a veteran)
• Strong shot-blocking instincts (blocks per minute above average)
• Solid post-move repertoire (not flashy but effective)
• Pro-level discipline during interviews and off-court behavior—impressive for someone so young.

This isn’t about rising stars; it’s about rising standards.

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What Lies Ahead?

He’ll likely get invited to more workouts soon — maybe even attend summer league if he remains untaken beyond Day 1. But here’s my take: don’t expect immediate playing time in Charlotte unless injuries strike early.

Instead, focus on development within their G-League affiliate or overseas leagues like China’s CBA or Germany’s Bundesliga next season.

For fans tracking global talent pipelines,this is where you should watch closely — not just because YANG is talented but because he represents something bigger: international depth is no longer an afterthought; it’s central to modern roster construction. The rise of players like him signals that talent speaks louder than nationality anymore—especially when backed by film analysis and consistent effort on display during workouts.

Stay sharp out there—and keep your eyes open for next year’s draft class.