Yao encouraged by progress but still out for 2009-10
Posted Sep 24 2009 4:51PM
HOUSTON (AP) -- Encouraged by progress in his recovery from major foot surgery, Yao Ming says he will return to action -- just not next season.
"The (X-ray) picture looks good. The bones heal well," he said in an interview with Houston television station KRIV on Wednesday.
He also said, however, that there was no chance that he will play in the 2009-10 NBA season.
"The answer is no. You don't want to rush it, because they want it to totally heal this time. I have been in this situation enough," he said.
The 2.29-meter (7-foot-6) Chinese star underwent surgery in May to repair a hairline fracture in his left foot suffered late in a May 8 NBA playoff game against the Los Angeles Lakers. The injury had raised questions, especially in China, about Yao's playing future.
This week, he said he expects his career will take on new life.
"I am able to play again," he said.
However, there may be a change in the style of his play.
"Obviously, I want to play basketball. This is my life right there," he said. "But for long term, believe me for long term, I need to slow down."
Yao had the hard cast removed from his left leg on Friday, and his leg and foot were placed in an orthopedic boot. He said he works out three times a week, but the boot on his leg limits what he can do.
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