Yao Ming is one of the most recognizable names in Houston’s basketball history. In 2002, the Houston Rockets drafted Ming, who would go on to become a monumental figure in the NBA and around the world.
Ming was born in 1980 in Shanghai, China. His parents, who were both basketball players themselves, were also exceptionally tall. Ming would eventually grow to a whopping 7 feet and 6 inches and be recognized as one of the tallest basketball players in NBA history. While in China, Ming played five seasons in the Chinese Basketball Association with the Shanghai Starks.
In June 2002, Ming was the overall number one draft pick taken by the Houston Rockets. When he arrived in Houston for the season, he received a warm welcome from the city’s Chinese community. At the airport, fans greeted him with banners and placards written in Chinese. A big ‘Houston’s Chinese Community Welcomes Yao’ event was also held at the George R. Brown Convention Center. A few thousands tickets were purchased for the city’s Chinese community to cheer on Ming at the game on New Year’s Eve 2003. During his time in Houston, he sometimes visited spots in Chinatown and was known for grabbing a green bean slushy from a tapioca shop in Bellaire.
Ming’s time with the Rockets pushed the team to new levels. He also made eight All-Star rosters and was named to the All-NBA team five times. Ming also became a three-time Olympian and served as China’s flag bearer during the Opening Ceremony in 2004 and 2008. He retired from the Rockets in 2011 due to multiple injuries. He now serves as president of the Chinese Basketball Association.
I’m highlighting Houston’s AAPI history all month long. If you have an idea for me, email me.
In case you missed it, check out the City Cast Houston team’s live show before a Houston Rockets game last month.
