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Yao Ming

retired
Drafted #1 in the 2002 NBA Draft by the Rockets
Height: 7'5" (226 cm)
Weight: 296 lbs (134 kg)
Position: C
Hometown: Shanghai, China
Current Team:

Articles

NBA Scouting Reports, Southwestern Division (Part One)

Jonathan Givony
Jonathan Givony
Matt Williams
Matt Williams
Joseph Treutlein
Joseph Treutlein
Eric Weiss
Eric Weiss
May 15, 2008, 08:00 pm
Overview: A once in a generation center who has the game to match his unique physical assets. One of the biggest players in the League, but has a relatively short wingspan. Developed his frame to the point that he doesn’t get pushed around as much as he used to. Has good footwork and overall mobility for his size in the half-court, but doesn’t run the floor terribly well. Not in the best shape, and probably shouldn’t play many more minutes than he already does in the regular season. Surprisingly coordinated for a player of his size. Has a great offensive repertoire. Incredibly smart, and a fantastic teammate. Superbly versatile—does many different things on the floor. The greatest Chinese basketball player ever. Five time All-Star. Has been indispensible in popularizing NBA basketball in Asia. Personality and background has made him a marketing juggernaut. An incredible asset to the NBA. Injuries have been a major problem for him and his team, and are a huge concern moving forward.

Offense: Gets over two third of his offensive possessions in the post. Requires a double team due to his size and skill. Great post repertoire. Displays great touch with both hands. Displays an almost unstoppable hook shot and turnaround jumper. No player his size shoots from the inside with comparable finesse. Prefers to set up on the left block, but is actually more efficient from the right. Tends to turn over his left shoulder, right into his hook. Decent passer. Really needs to cut down on his turnovers. Doesn’t always see the defense coming. Draws a lot of contact. Goes to the line at a high rate. Shoots a tremendous percentage from the line. Capable midrange shooter. Has become the assertive force that many expected him to be. Great passer with a superb feel for the game. A good offensive rebounder.

Defense: A good defender due to his ability to change shots. Does a solid job protecting the rim. Commits a lot of fouls due to his lack of overall quickness. Isn’t able to step out and cover the pick and roll like more athletic centers. Can be a liability against teams that get out in transition frequently. Great in half court settings. Good rebounder and outlet passer. Has become more aggressive on the defensive end since entering the League. Not the best defensive player skill wise, but his size makes him formidable.

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