Benian
Yao

Position: Defender
Hometown: Waxhaw, North Carolina
Height: 6-foot-4
Previous: UNC Asheville

Bio: Born in Waxhaw, North Carolina, Benian Yao is a defender known for his physical presence, leadership, and defensive instincts. He developed through a strong collegiate pathway, beginning at Viterbo University before transferring to UNC Asheville, where he became a key figure along the Bulldogs’ back line. Comfortable organizing from the back and contributing on set pieces, Yao brings experience and reliability to the defensive unit.

Timeline: Yao began his collegiate career at Viterbo University, where he established himself as a consistent starter and leader. During his time with the V-Hawks, he earned CAC All-Conference and All-Tournament honors, was named Viterbo Player of the Year, served as team captain, and helped guide the program to the NAIA National Tournament. He transferred to UNC Asheville ahead of the 2023 season, quickly becoming an important part of the Bulldogs’ defensive group. During the 2023 campaign, Yao appeared regularly and scored his first NCAA goal — a game-winner at Longwood — earning Big South Defensive Player of the Week recognition. In 2024, he continued as a regular contributor, starting the majority of matches and adding two goals from the back line while helping anchor one of the program’s strongest defensive seasons. His performances earned him Big South All-Conference Second Team and Academic All-District honors. Yao remained a steady presence through 2025, contributing defensively and offensively while providing leadership and consistency across conference play.