Chinese big man, Yao Ming, made his retirement official Wednesday (July 20) when he announced his decision to call it quits in his hometown.
From Shanghai, China, the 7'6" NBA star -- who helped the league break into the Chinese market -- told a packed news conference that a series of foot and leg injuries forced him to end his playing career at just 30 old.
"I will formally end my career," said Yao.
He was the top draft pick of the Houston Rockets in 2002, and made an impact almost immediately, helping the team reach the playoffs the seasons following his rookie year. It was the first time since 1997.
Yao played eight seasons in the NBA, but missed 250 regular-season games the past six years.
"Today is an important day for me and holds a special meaning for both my basketball career and my future," Yao said, speaking in his native tongue. "I had to leave the court since I suffered a stress fracture in my left foot for the third time at the end of last year. My past six months were an agonizing wait. I had been thinking (about my future) over and over. Today I am announcing a personal decision, ending my career as a basketball player and to officially retire. But one door is closing and another one is opening."
Despite his retirement, Yao said he would not leave basketball altogether. He plans to work with his former Chinese team, the Shanghai Sharks, with the possibility of becoming general manager.
And, plans to continue his philanthropic work with his Yao Foundation.
"Yao Ming has been a transformational player and a testament to the globalization of our game," Stern said in a statement. "His dominant play and endearing demeanor along with his extensive humanitarian efforts have made him an international fan favorite and provided an extraordinary bridge between basketball fans in the United States and China."
The Rockets' general manager, Daryl Morey, flew to China to say farewell in person, but had to get special permission from the NBA to do so, because the ongoing lockout prohibits contact with players.
Yao's contract expired after last season, and the Rockets said they were interested in re-signing him if he came back healthy. With his struggles with injury, the big man just didn't wanna go on any longer.
During his career, he was selected to the NBA All-Star team eight times, and averaged 19 points and 9.2 rebounds.
Chinese big man, Yao Ming, made his retirement official Wednesday (July 20) when he announced his decision to call it quits in his hometown.
