The NBA has imposed a $100K fine against the Trail Blazers for illegally contacting Yang Hansen in December 2023 before he was eligible for the draft, the league announced (via Twitter). In addition, assistant general managers Sergi Oliva and Mike Schmitz have been suspended for two weeks without pay.
The Blazers issued a response to the penalty, stating, “When this was brought to our attention the Portland Trail Blazers self reported to the NBA. The team cooperated fully with the investigation and accept the league’s determination,” relays Sean Highkin of Rose Garden Report (Twitter link).
It was somewhat surprising when Hansen was selected with the 16th pick in last year’s draft, but Blazers officials said they had been watching him closely for some time and were convinced he has star potential. The 20-year-old center was a standout with the Qingdao Eagles in the Chinese Basketball Association and had drawn comparisons with Yao Ming and Nikola Jokic.
Hansen has seen limited action during his rookie season, appearing in 41 games with the Blazers and averaging 2.3 points and 1.6 rebounds in 7.2 minutes per night. He’s been much more productive with Portland’s G League affiliate, the Rip City Remix, where he posted 17.1 points and 9.1 rebounds in 14 regular season contests.
Hansen was selected to participate in the Rising Stars event at All-Star Weekend.
Wow Mike Schmitz
This….kinda comes out of nowhere yeah?
Someone snitched?
Ouch…botched pick and pay up.
He is not a star and is a busted pick. Nobody had him going in the first round. Could have used the pick for more help. One of the worst shooting teams in the league.
Why would anyone even attempt this in our highly-surveilled world?
Bizarre season for the Blazers. Coach suspended indefinitely due to gambling. Management suspended for tampering and yet they’re going to the post season for the first time in years. Almost a success in some way