Nikola Jokic is not just a superstar player but also an idol to many who want to be part of the NBA one day. One such rookie, Yang Hansen, was star-struck when he met his favorite player in the league. The Chinese rookie also received a great piece of advice from one of the most elite centers to ever play in the NBA.
During the NBA All-Star weekend, Hansen, who was drafted 16th overall in the 2025 NBA draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, expressed his wish to “kiss” Nikola Jokic, a sign of respect in China. The moment finally arrived when the Blazers hosted the Nuggets on February 20.
The Serbian center, aware of the rookie’s appreciation for him, went up to Hansen before the game and had a brief chat. The rookie center looked at him, star-struck, while Joker talked to him in detail. He was also asked about the moment after the game in which he scored four points in eight minutes.
Talking about the brief chat and his love for Jokic, Hansen first explained that he didn’t actually want to kiss the center, but it was a sign of respect in his country:
“I don’t really want to kiss you. In China is respect. He told me like don’t get nervous all the time. You’re a great player just go play. Keep working hard.”
The 7-foot-2 Chinese center also detailed how watching Jokic play on-screen was much different from what he does on the court in real life, play after play. The Serbian’s basketball IQ is elite and even got a nod from LeBron James.
The Blazers suffered a blowout loss to the Nuggets, 103-157, and no Portland player could reach the 20-point mark. Jrue Holiday led the team in scoring, with 19 points.
Nikola Jokic takes the Nuggets to another win
The Denver Nuggets have once again caught the winning momentum after a close loss in the last game to the LA Clippers, 114-115. They are now third in the Western Conference. Joker scored 32 points, along with nine rebounds, seven assists, and four steals.
Jokic missed almost a month due to injury and has not been in full swing since his return. He has also fallen behind in the MVP race to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is also out due to an injury. Every game counts for Nikola Jokic now if he wants to be in contention for NBA regular-season awards.
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