FanShot

Yao Ming Retiring

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Houston Rockets center Yao Ming has decided to retire after nine NBA seasons, Yahoo! Sports and the Houston Chronicle have reported, citing league sources. In May, Yao said his surgically repaired left ankle was healing properly and he wanted to remain with the Rockets. But Yao, who had surgery in January, said he wouldn't know until this summer if he'd be able to play again. He became a restricted free agent July 1. Yao averaged 19 points and 9.2 rebounds a game in his seven-plus seasons. From ESPN Sad day. Yao is a real basketball talent, a consummate professional, and good people. I wholeheartedly agree with Jeff Van Gundy when he says a healthy Yao would be unstoppable. It's been a great 9 seasons. EDIT: Check out Henry Abbott's fantastic piece about Yao, the person. Good, good stuff