While several analysts expected Yang Hansen’s name would be called out in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft, his name was called during the first round. This came as a surprise to the 20-year-old star, too, as he was spending some family time and enjoying some fried chicken right when he heard his name being called by Adam Silver. Going 16th overall, the Nikola Jokic of China added his name to the Portland Trail Blazers’ roster. But it was at this moment that a minor (maybe major) issue came to light. It is Hansen’s language.

English isn’t the Zibo native’s first language. Therefore, he needs a translator to be by his side at all times.

Who Is Yang Hansen’s Translator?

Yang Hansen’s NBA life with Portland might be made much easier, thanks to Chris Liu. With Mandarin being Hansen’s first language, Liu is always besides the 20-year-old star, translating everything including press conferences, training sessions, and also live action.

Why Is It Important for Yang Hansen To Have a Translator?

English is mandatory for any sports athlete who is looking to build a career in the United States of America. Especially considering the amount of media duties, spending time within the locker room, and to basically communicate between teammates during games, Yang Hansen needs to know English. Thus, Hansen requires a translator to thrive in the Trailblazers locker room. In that aspect, Chris Liu has proven to be a valuable asset for Hansen. Fittingly, Liu also carries experience from China, having previously supported Duop Reath there.

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Hansen has played 17 games this season and has a field goal percentage of 30% and a 3-point percentage of 14.3%. He is also averaging 0.8 assists per game. His stats are enough proof to see that he has gelled well with the Trailblazers. Some of that credit has to go to his translator.

Former coach Chauncey Billups had acknowledged what the added layer of communication brings, while trusting Hansen’s drive to shorten that gap. The center already flashes simple English during interactions. Still, deeper dialogue runs through his translator, Chris Liu, whether at the podium or during in-game bench discussions, keeping cohesion intact.

Is Yang Hansen’s Translator Part of His Management or an NBA Team?

Chris Liu operates as an embedded figure within the Portland Trail Blazers‘ NBA structure, firmly tied to the staff. Accordingly, he stays courtside with Yang Hansen, joins timeouts, and relays instructions live. Recent moments alongside Deni Avdija highlight that presence, as dialogue flows instantly between teammates, coaches, and Hansen through Liu’s steady interpretation.

Moreover, Liu oversees every public-facing obligation tied to Hansen. He manages interview rooms and press settings, signaling an organizational assignment rather than private representation. Reports further trace his involvement back to the draft combine, extending through camp. That continuity mirrors league-wide norms, especially when franchises invest in international prospects adapting to NBA systems.

Well, Draft night rewrote Yang Hansen’s destiny, and language quietly joined the plot. Therefore, as Portland embraced its unexpected prodigy, Chris Liu became the connective thread. Between benches and play calls, understanding now travels faster. Consequently, Hansen’s transition feels human, hopeful, and purposeful, turning communication into a catalyst rather than a constraint.