As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the Golden State Warriors are making strategic moves to bolster their roster with their lone 41st overall pick in the second round. With the draft spanning two days—first round on Wednesday night and second round on Thursday—the Warriors are exploring creative ways to secure a player who can make an immediate impact. Among their recent workouts, one international prospect stands out: Hansen Yang, a 7’2″ center from the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), who has drawn attention for his unique skill set and intriguing potential.
According to Sam Gordon of the San Francisco Chronicle, the Warriors recently hosted Yang for a pre-draft workout, signaling their interest in the towering big man. Yang, a two-time CBA All-Star playing for the Qingdao Eagles, posted impressive averages of 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game across 45 games this season. Notably, he showcased a modern touch, attempting one three-pointer per game and converting at a respectable 33.3% clip. His performance at the NBA Combine further turned heads, where he recorded 11 points, 6 assists, 6 rebounds, and a block in a scrimmage, highlighting his versatility.
Yang’s passing ability is what sets him apart from traditional big men. Despite his 7’2″ frame, he displays a surprising knack for facilitating, drawing comparisons to All-Stars Nikola Vucevic and a bigger Domantas Sabonis, as well as former NBA center Dewayne Dedmon. While the Vucevic and Sabonis comparisons may be ambitious for a projected second-round pick, a Dedmon-like contributor would represent solid value at the 41st pick. Yang’s ability to distribute the ball aligns well with the Warriors’ fluid, pass-heavy system, which thrives on players who can read the floor and create opportunities.
However, Yang’s fit in the NBA comes with challenges. His slower foot speed limits his defensive versatility, likely relegating him to drop coverage schemes where quicker guards could exploit mismatches. Even in drop coverage, he may struggle against the NBA’s elite athletes. Still, his size, rebounding, and shot-blocking provide a foundation for a reliable rim protector, and his offensive upside—particularly his passing and developing outside shot—makes him an intriguing gamble.
Warriors conducted a pre-draft visit last week with two-time CBA All-Star center Hansen Yang, sources tell the Chronicle. Golden State picks 41st in this week’s NBA draft.
— Sam Gordon (@BySamGordon) June 24, 2025
The Warriors have been diligent in their pre-draft evaluations, also working out prospects like Duke’s Sion James. However, Yang’s unique profile as an international “monster” could be the bold move they need to add depth to their frontcourt. With only one pick in a draft filled with uncertainty, selecting Yang could be a high-reward swing for a team looking to maximize value and maintain their championship window.
As the draft unfolds over the next two days, all eyes will be on Golden State to see if they pull the trigger on Yang or pivot to another prospect. One thing is clear: the Warriors are quietly plotting a move that could shake up their roster and add a new dimension to their game plan for the 2025 season.