Next Gen Asian Stars Impress at NBA Summer League
By James Moreau | 26 Jul, 2025

Rookie 1st round picks Hansen Yang and Dylan Harper were among five Asian players who stood out in the 2025 NBA Summer League.

The NBA Summer League has highlighted a growing presence of Asian talent with several players drawing attention.

Perhaps the biggest standout has been the Blazers’ 16th overall pick Hansen Yang. The 7’1” center from China has quickly become a fan favorite for his affable personality and unique blend of size, skill, and vision on the court. Through 4 games played he averaged over 10 points, including a posterizing dunk, tallied up 15 assists, and 9 blocks.

Spurs’ combo guard Dylan Harper showed flashes of brilliance as the number 2 overall pick. Though the Filipino American only played 2 games due to a minor groin injury he scored 16 in each while showcasing crafty moves including a game tying bucket with under 10-seconds left. Harper was also able to contest doubts about his defense with an impressive block versus the Mavs.

The league’s shortest player at 5’8” Yuki Kawamura showed out this summer leading to a two-way contract signing with the Bulls. Over five games the Japanese point guard averaged over 2 steals per game and had two double-doubles, featuring highlight-reel-level behind-the-back passes.  In the final game he scored 20 points while draining 6 threes.

Japanese shooting guard Keisei Tominaga is looking to make an NBA roster after spending last year in the G-League where he shot 47% from the three-point line. The sharpshooter struggled through three summer league games though he was able to rack up 12 points in the Pacers last game with a high volume of shooting.

Combo guard Isaiah Wong played in all five games for the Celtics this summer with a breakout performance coming in the final game, leading all players with 18 points and 6 assists. After playing 20 games for the Hornets last year he’s looking to find a permanent spot in his third season.