Yao's sweeping seal of approval

Looking at the bigger picture, Yao is focused on nurturing the game in schools.

"Schools will provide us with the constant flow of young talent and we have to consider how to help schools in China to find more talent," said Yao.

"Actually, the very best players cannot be nurtured to greatness but are waiting to be found. Those who stand on the top not only have great skills but also big hearts, which they are born with naturally. We want our players to not only master skills but also to display strong leadership."

Yao is leading by example but, typically, deflected praise onto the players.

In recognition of the successes in Indonesia, the CBA published a letter of thanks to the squads online, which read: "We congratulate all four teams for these gold medals at the Asian Games.

"We want to thank the players as it is your diligent training and fighting spirit in the competition that helped overcome all difficulties and secure the golds.

"Our strength in basketball is a showcase of the nation's sporting power, and we know the responsibility on our shoulders.

"The four golds are just a turning point on our way forward. In the future, there are more challenges waiting for us, which can be solved by the joint efforts of all the basketball people in China."