India Breaking News Reported Yao Ming Steps Down from National League Leadership, a position he held since 2017. Yao, an eight-time NBA All-Star during his playing career with the Houston Rockets, had been instrumental in commercializing the league and overseeing its management company, which represents the 20 teams in China’s top basketball league. His departure was announced on the Chinese Basketball Association’s website, with no specific reason given other than the board’s decision for a change in leadership.

National League chairman

Yao Ming rose to international fame after being selected as the first overall pick by the Houston Rockets in the 2002 NBA draft. Standing at 7 feet 6 inches tall, Yao became one of the most recognizable Chinese athletes globally. He played in the NBA for eight seasons before retiring in 2011 due to chronic injuries. Beyond his basketball career, Yao has been involved in various charitable endeavors and sports diplomacy efforts.

The Chinese Basketball Association has faced allegations of corruption in recent years, with two teams, the Jiangsu Dragons and the Shanghai Sharks, being expelled from the league finals last month for alleged unsporting behavior. This has raised concerns about the league’s governance and transparency, as well as its ability to attract foreign players and commercial sponsorships.

Yao Ming’s successor as chairman of the National Basketball League is veteran sports journalist Xu Jicheng, who has experience in bidding for and managing major sports events, including the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2022 Winter Olympics. Xu will face the challenge of ensuring the league’s integrity and competitiveness while maintaining its popularity among fans.

Chinese basketball legend Yao Ming

Despite challenges, basketball remains immensely popular in China, in part due to Yao Ming’s legacy. His impact extends beyond the court, as he has been involved in promoting education globally through the Yao Ming Foundation and supporting basketball development in various countries through initiatives like Basketball Without Borders.

In recognition of his contributions, Yao Ming was appointed as Houston’s Goodwill Ambassador in 2013, strengthening ties between the city and China. His jersey number 11 was retired by the Houston Rockets in 2017, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Yao Ming’s departure from his role in the National Basketball League marks the end of an era, but his impact on the sport and his charitable work will continue to resonate for years to come.