Trail Blazers Rookie Hansen Sparks Buzz with Jokic Admiration

Yang Hansen's surprising 'can't wait to kiss' comment about Nuggets star Nikola Jokic goes viral during 2026 NBA Rising Stars event.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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During the 2026 NBA All-Star Rising Stars challenge, Portland Trail Blazers center Yang Hansen captured attention with a surprising statement about Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic. Speaking to the media, Hansen revealed his excitement about possibly meeting Jokic, saying 'I can't wait to kiss him.' This unexpected comment quickly went viral on social media, sparking a mix of reactions from fans.

Why it matters

Hansen's candid enthusiasm for Jokic has generated a unique buzz around him as a rookie, blending on-court growth with off-court personality. As the Trail Blazers continue to nurture his development, fans and analysts alike will watch how Hansen's role evolves amid Portland's rebuilding efforts.

The details

During the Rising Stars semifinals, Hansen played for Team Austin, scoring 10 points on 80% shooting in a 40-34 defeat. His energy on the court included a memorable fake and drive against Trail Blazers teammate Donovan Clingan, delighting the crowd. Despite limited minutes during the regular season, Hansen showed flashes of promise in this showcase.

  • On February 14, 2026, Hansen made the surprising 'can't wait to kiss' comment about Jokic.
  • On February 14, 2026, Hansen played in the Rising Stars challenge.

The players

Yang Hansen

A rookie center for the Portland Trail Blazers who has seen limited NBA playing time so far, spending most of his minutes with the Rip City Remix in the G League.

Nikola Jokic

The star center for the Denver Nuggets, who Hansen expressed admiration for and excitement to potentially meet.

Donovan Clingan

A Trail Blazers teammate of Hansen's who Hansen faked out with a move during the Rising Stars event.

Tiago Splitter

The interim head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, who has outlined the team's plan to help Hansen develop into a reliable NBA center.

VJ Edgecombe

The MVP of the Rising Stars tournament, overshadowing other promising talents like Hansen.

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What they’re saying

“I can't wait to kiss him.”

— Yang Hansen

“From triple-double to double cheek.”

— Fan (X)

“Just the little things about the NBA, like how not to foul when someone drives. Just be ready for the physicality that guys are going to come at you, and you got to box out every time. Little things like that. Little details that are very important (in) this league. Sometimes, you just need time. You got to see it. You got to, of course, be there on the court.”

— Tiago Splitter, Interim Portland Trail Blazers Coach

The takeaway

Hansen's surprising comments about Jokic have sparked a unique buzz around the young Trail Blazers center, blending his on-court potential with an engaging off-court personality. As Portland continues to develop Hansen, fans will be watching to see if his talent and charisma translate into consistent NBA impact in the coming seasons.