Portland Trail Blazers rookie center Yang Hansen could have his request for an autographed photo from Denver superstar center Nikola Jokic fulfilled.
But potentially under certain conditions.
During the 2025 NBA Summer League, Yang, from China, expressed his desire to one day receive an autographed photo from his idol.
Jokic, from Serbia, was shown a video of Yang’s request and with a big grin, responded: “He’s good. I think I’m happy when he gets in his prime, I’m going to be out of the league, probably.”
The Blazers, through Memphis, selected Yang, 20, with the 16th pick in the 2025 NBA draft.
Because of his passing skills, Yang has been referred to as the “Chinese Jokic.” Jokic averaged 10.2 assists last season, along with 29.6 points.
Jokic, 30, a three-time MVP, added that an autograph could come with stipulations.
“Yes, he can have a picture, or whatever he wants,” an amused Jokic said. “Only if he play bad against me. Let’s say like that. If I destroy him, and I score a lot of points, then yes. If he do that, no.”
In four summer league games, Yang averaged 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.3 blocks in 24.5 minutes per game.
— Aaron Fentress | afentress@Oregonian.com | @AaronJFentress (Twitter), @AaronJFentress (Instagram), @AaronFentress (Facebook)
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