Yao Ming Returns to China with NBA

Yao Ming, eight-time NBA All-Star and former Houston Rockets center, says the NBA never left China.

What happened?

The NBA is returning to China after a six-year hiatus. Yao Ming credits support from Chinese and US parties for the league's return. The return is set for 2025, with Yao Ming at the forefront.

Why it matters for Yao Ming

Yao Ming's involvement is crucial, given his status as a basketball superstar in China. He has been instrumental in promoting the NBA in China. The Houston Rockets, Yao Ming's former team, have a significant following in China.

What comes next?

The NBA's return to China is expected to boost the league's popularity. Yao Ming will likely play a key role in the league's marketing efforts. The return is scheduled for October 2025, with games and events planned. And the NBA is working to rebuild its fan base in China. But the league faces challenges, including competition from other sports. So Yao Ming's involvement is vital to the NBA's success in China. The NBA's return is a significant development, with Yao Ming at the center. Yao Ming's comments came on October 10, 2025, in an interview. He expressed his excitement about the NBA's return to China. The league's return is a result of efforts by Yao Ming and others. Yao Ming's role in the NBA's return cannot be overstated. He has been a driving force behind the league's efforts in China. The NBA's return is set to be a major success, thanks to Yao Ming.