On September 22, in Indonesia time, the Portland Trail Blazers held a fan event at Pioneer Courthouse Square to celebrate the return of their legend, Damian Lillard. Rookie from China, Yang Hanshen, who was picked 16th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, was also present and shared a warm hug with Lillard.
Lillard Returns to Portland
Damian Lillard, nicknamed “Biaoge” by Chinese fans, was drafted by the Blazers in 2012 with the 6th overall pick. For 11 years, he became the club’s icon and still holds the franchise’s all-time records for total points, points per game average, three-pointers made, free throws made, and free throw accuracy. He was also named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
In 2023, Lillard was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. However, an Achilles tendon injury sidelined him for the playoffs. The Bucks later released his contract, allowing him to return to Portland. His status as a legend led to a massive downtown celebration, complete with Blazers-themed booths, music, food, games, and free merchandise.
When the now 35-year-old Lillard stepped on stage, the crowd erupted. Fans carried signs reading “Welcome Home, Damian.” The Blazers posted photos of the event with the caption: “Love never changes.”
Lillard said:
“Just a week ago, I finally realized I don’t have to keep moving around anymore. It feels amazing, I’m finally home. In my mind, there’s only one thought: this is my home.”
The “Biaoyang Combo” Moment
The event became even livelier when the host introduced the new rookie:
“16th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, number 16, center Yang Hanshen!”
Met with thunderous applause, Yang appeared in a green shirt and hugged Lillard tightly. On Chinese social media, fans have already nicknamed the pair the “Biaoyang Combo” (from Biaoge = Lillard and Yang = Hanshen).
The Blazers are set to face the Golden State Warriors on October 8 in a preseason game. Lillard may not play yet due to injury, but Yang Hanshen’s performance is expected to be closely watched. (The full schedule is available on the SPBO basketball score site.)
The Rookie’s Physical Preparation
So far, Yang has rarely appeared in public, only sharing training photos. These show his physique looking noticeably stronger. U.S. media reported his weight has increased from 114.5 kg at the NBA Draft Combine to 122 kg after following a special Blazers program: a measured high-protein diet combined with weight training to improve endurance and reduce injury risks.
Will the program prove effective? The answer may be seen in the preseason game two weeks from now.
