China's star center Yao Ming impressed his adversaries in the
game against Dallas Mavericks Thursday, the Houston Chronicle
reported.
Houston Rockets center Yao
Ming (11) of China defends against players of Dallas Mavericks as
they try to get a shot in the NBA exhibition basketball game in
Huston on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2007. (Photo: sina.com)
Since most of Mavericks' starters didn't play, with nearly a
full foot of height advantage against the mini-Mavs, in 20 minutes,
Yao had 19 points on 8-of-11 shooting in the 104-90 victory.
"What impresses me most is that he is not passive anymore," said
the Mavericks' center Darvin Ham, who missed last two seasons.
"He takes it right at you and punishes you. He is bringing the
fight to the post. If Houston continues to play through him, they
will be a very tough team to beat.
"I was thoroughly impressed by how much he has improved," he
added.
Yao feels comfortable in Coach Rick Adelman's system and should
deliver first-round value if he stays healthy.
Houston Rockets center Yao
Ming (11) of China tries to slow down Dallas Mavericks' player as
he drives the ball forward in the NBA exhibition basketball game in
Huston on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2007. (Photo: sina.com)
(Xinhua News Agency October 20, 2007)
