Looks like the path has been cleared for the Rockets to draft Yao Ming. Here’s a statement from the Rockets web page:
Rockets general counsel Michael Goldberg issued the following statement today: “I received a letter early this morning from Chinese Basketball Association Chief Executive Xin Lancheng confirming that all of his concerns had been addressed. We are looking forward to drafting Yao Ming with the first overall selection in the 2002 NBA Draft. The fact that we arrived at such a mutually beneficial understanding in such a short period of time illustrates the spirit of cooperation and trust that existed throughout these discussions. There were many rounds of congratulations exchanged this morning with Chief Executive Xin, Yao Ming’s representatives and officials from the Shanghai Sharks.”
And a few photos of Rockets coach Rudy Tomjonavich and his new player. I sure hope that’s Yao’s game face in this picture and not his opinion of the new coach.
