OLYMPICS/ Team china
Olympic basketball hopes in jeopardy: Yao
By Xiao Chen (China Daily)
Updated: 2007-09-27 10:18
Yao plans to fly to the US on October 3 to join Houston's preseason training camp, but he admits he is behind in preparations for the NBA season.
"We have flown to different places to compete since I got married," he said.
"I was short of systematic trainings. I am not 100 percent fit and I am so much worried (about the preparation for the NBA new season).
Coming into his sixth NBA season, which tips off on October 30, under new coach Rick Adelman, a more mature Yao refuses to detail the club's target.
"I think I should not say too much. Action speaks louder than words. Like we were highly expected last season but did not reach it. In the new season, we will come out even stronger and step further in the playoffs."
Determination and perseverance have powered Yao's illustrious basketball career, beginning in the Chinese Basketball Association, then the Asian Basketball Championships and rocketing to NBA All-Star status.
He has become a revered athlete with a huge global fan base.
Yao's increasing popularity and influence make him the favorite of sponsors.
Sportswear company Reebok and Yao teamed up on Tuesday in Beijing to unveil he brand's latest marketing and advertising campaign - "Fuel Yao's Unlimited Power."
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