In 2016, legendary Houston Rockets center Yao Ming was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2023, the 7-foot-5 big man was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame to honor a career that had a dramatic impact on basketball in Yao’s native country of China and throughout the world.
The FIBA Hall of Fame honors players, coaches, teams, referees, and administrators who have greatly contributed to international competitive basketball. It was established by FIBA in 1991.
Yao, who began his professional career with China’s Shanghai Sharks, played in a range of international competitions, including three Olympic Games and two world championships.
Success in those settings paved the way for Yao to join the NBA. He was drafted No. 1 overall by the Rockets in 2002. In eight seasons in Houston (2002-2010), Yao averaged 19 points (52.4% FG), 9.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks in 32.5 minutes per game.
Ultimately, his career was tragically cut short by various foot injuries. Yet, because of his on-court brilliance over that limited time and a unique personal story, Yao made a lasting impact.
Here’s a look at Yao’s induction speech. In all, 12 players were inducted as part of this year’s class, which was announced as part of activities surrounding the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
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