Regardless of hypothetical scenarios, Ming's actual influence went beyond the game. When he entered the NBA as the first overall pick in 2002, Yao became the face of basketball in China ...

In just half a season, Yao Ming has lived up to high expectations as the No. 1 overall pick. Shawn Bradley, from Harris' Mavericks and from his 7-6 perch, is in his 10th season of chafing from ...

When Yao Ming emerges from the hotel, the crowd erupts. Police can barely keep the throng of screaming fans from enveloping the 7-foot-5 giant. Bill Duffy, right, represents three of 2002's top ...

NBA star Yao Ming, architect Yoshio Taniguchi, and other dignitaries break ground for the Asia Society Texas Center on May 15, 2008. (Richard J. Carson/Asia Society) In the summer of 2002, when the ...