By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The NBA has officially penalized the Portland Trail Blazers for violating league rules regarding contact with Yang Hansen in December 2023, before he was eligible for the draft. On Wednesday, the league announced a $100,000 fine for the franchise, while assistant general managers Sergi Oliva and Mike Schmitz have each been handed two-week suspensions without pay.
Per the press release: “The NBA announced today that the Portland Trail Blazers have been fined $100,000, and Assistant General Managers Seri Oliva and Mike Schmitz have each been suspended for two weeks without pay for violating league rules governing contact with draft-ineligible players in connection with the team’s scouting of Yang Hansen in December 2023.”
The investigation centered on the team’s scouting of the Chinese center, months before he was eligible for the 2025 NBA Draft, presented by State Farm. Under league protocols, teams are strictly prohibited from certain types of direct contact with underage international prospects who have not yet reached draft eligibility.
“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,” the Blazers reacted in a statement.
Hansen, now 20, was a surprise selection at 16th overall in 2025, but Portland’s front office has long maintained its belief in his star potential, citing his unicorn passing ability and size. While his rookie campaign has seen him play limited minutes in the 2025-26 Regular Season, he has flourished with the Rip City Remix in the G League, averaging 17.1 points and 9.1 rebounds.