He been waiting on the big man to come back! Now we have a really good reason to go back to the games this year. In my opinion we are definitly contenders this season.
Fox 26 news says
Houston – Center Yao Ming told FOX 26 Sports on Tuesday that his career will continue with the Houston Rockets during the 2010-2011 season.
The fifth and final year of Yao’s contract includes an early termination clause giving him the right to opt out and become an unrestricted free agent Wednesday night, which he will not do.
“My decision is very clear, I am going to stay with the Rockets,” Yao said. “Why? Because everything we’ve done in the past I feel very comfortable with and also I believe our GM (Daryl Morey) will bring us more talent for helping us build a championship team.”
Yao will make $17.69 million during the 2010-2011 season.
He did not play last season after undergoing reconstructive surgery on his left foot last July. The injury is a major reason why Yao has waited until now to make his decision.
“First thing I need to find out is how my foot is going,” Yao said. “Obviously I missed one year and it’s not easy to decide everything. I need to find a lot of information about my foot, about the way I play, how to improve myself after another injury. It’s a little bit complicated after this injury.”
Yao joined the Rockets eight years ago after Houston made him the first overall choice in the 2002 NBA Draft. Houston has become his second home.
“I keep saying after I came here after 2002, I said this community gave me a very warm feeling, almost like home and the people here treat, not just me, treat this team so nice, supporting us whether we are losing or we are winning,” Yao said. “I feel we are very strong in the city.”
If Yao does not sign an extension with the Rockets he can become an unrestricted free agent June 30, 2011.
“It’s still far from now,” Yao said. “My focus is still on my foot rehab. I feel much better. I feel I improved so much in the last couple of months.
“Even every week I can feel the difference, My goal right now is to get back to game shape as soon as possible and try helping this team.”
In the seven years Yao has played for Houston he has been selected to play in the NBA All-Star Game every season, starting all but one.
“I know Yao is extremely happy to be back on the court next year for the Rockets,” said John Huizinga, Yao’s agent, in an interview with FOX 26 Sports.
“The fans have been fantastic. The Rockets organization has supported Yao since day one and he enjoys playing with his teammates. It’s a great situation all the way around.”
