Stars

Duncan to replace Yao as All-Star Game starter

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-02-18 11:31

NEW YORK - Tim Duncan will start this weekend's NBA All-Star Game in place of injured Houston Rockets centre Yao Ming, San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said on Thursday.

Related readings: Wade's 41 push Heat past Pacers in NBA  NBA coaching great Jerry Sloan retires suddenly  Spurs spank Raptors on Blair's big night

The 34-year-old Duncan, who is averaging a career-low in points and rebounds this season with the Spurs, was selected as a reserve by coaches two weeks ago and will make his 12th consecutive start in an All-Star game.

Yao, who missed all of last season after fracturing a bone in his left foot, has not played since Nov 10 and has a stress fracture in his left ankle that could end his career.

The All-Star Game will be played Feb 20 in Los Angeles.