Trail Blazers' Yang Hansen honors Damian Lillard after signing news

Portland Trail Blazers rookie Yang Hansen showed love to new teammate Damian Lillard on Thursday following the news that the nine-time All-Star would be rejoining the organization.

Lillard has reportedly agreed to sign a three-year, $42 million contract with the Trail Blazers after he was waived by the Milwaukee Bucks on July 6. He spent the first 11 years of his career in Portland before requesting a trade from the organization in July 2023.

Shams Charania of ESPN was the first to report the news.

The Trail Blazers' all-time leading scorer is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season to rehabilitate a torn left Achilles tendon sustained on April 27. He underwent surgery to repair the injury on May 2 and is expected to make a full recovery.

Though Lillard won't play next year, his addition has created buzz around the team after the group appeared to take a step forward in the second half of last season. Yang honored Lillard by recreating his patented "Dame Time" celebration.

Blazers rookie center Yang Hansen taps his wrist to show he’s ready for “Dame Time” with Damian Lillard pic.twitter.com/BnzUvgUbFy— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) July 18, 2025

Yang is in the midst of a productive showing with the Trail Blazers in the NBA Summer League. The 7-footer is averaging 10.8 points, five rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.2 blocks on 45.7% shooting from the field, including 33.3% from 3-point range, in four appearances with the team.

The 16th pick is highly touted for his overall skill set and ability as a player who can work in the paint, space the floor and protect the paint. He projects to contribute well at the next level and is eager to get to work with Lillard and the rest of the team next season.

This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Trail Blazers news: Yang Hansen honors Damian Lillard after signing