Yang Hansen rated his 18 points and 10 rebounds as pretty good! He joked about his opponent’s physicality: “I’ll just smile when he gets his sixth foul.”

On December 16th, Beijing time, the G League season opener continued, with the Torn City Mix beating the Stockton Kings 116-110. Chinese player Yang Hansen started and played 31 minutes and 26 seconds, putting up 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists, shooting 8 for 11 from the floor, 1 for 1 from beyond the arc, and 1 for 1 at the free-throw line. After the match, Yang Hansen spoke with reporters.

Yang Hansen rated his own performance in the game as “pretty good” and “average.”

“Everyone knows I came from overseas leagues,” Yang Hansen said through a translator, “so playing for the Mix, I try my best to adapt to the pace here. That way, when the Trail Blazers call me back, I can fully commit to helping the team.”

Kings forward Jeffries was assigned as the primary defender against this Trail Blazers first-round pick. The two frequently battled physically in the paint with intense positioning struggles. During the game, there was a moment when Jeffries completed a dunk on a fast break while facing Yang Hansen’s defense, then pointed at the rookie to celebrate exuberantly.

In response to such provocation, Yang Hansen never backed down during that play or the entire game. Facing tough physical defense, he often responded with his signature sly smile. The Stockton Kings paid the price for their lack of height — Yang Hansen delivered the most efficient performance since joining the Mix.

“Bring it on, brother, it’s fine — he’s the one committing fouls, he’ll be out soon,” Yang Hansen said when asked about handling the opponent’s physical play and being targeted. “I think it’s normal. I’m aiming for him to get six fouls so I can smile at him — it’s truly ironic.”

To avoid a five-second inbound violation, Jeffries hurriedly passed the ball away. Mix guard Cook was quick to intercept that pass, securing the steal that sealed the victory. Cook was immediately fouled, and as Yang Hansen moved toward the frontcourt, he looked back at Jett and Bjorkgren on the sideline and flashed that sly grin again.

“I saw them standing right behind Jeffries,” Yang Hansen recalled with a smile, “so I thought I had to show my toughness and force him into a five-second inbound violation.”

“He has contributed so much to the team,” Mix head coach Hesk praised Yang Hansen’s performance after the game. He also mentioned that Yang is still developing chemistry with teammates but has already shown great play. “His defense deserves recognition, fully utilizing his height and wingspan in the paint. Every time opponents drive inside, they are disrupted by his defense. On offense, he is the team’s playmaking hub — with him orchestrating, our offense flows smoothly.”