Houston Rockets legend Yao Ming turns 35 today.
After a miserable 2001-02 season the Houston Rockets finished with a dreadful 28-54 record; one of the worst in franchise history. Looking for a fresh start the Rockets drafted a 7’6 center from China with their first pick in 2002. Despite the fact many analysts predicted his failure Yao Ming quickly established himself in his first two seasons as one of the brightest stars in the league.
Making an immediate impact Yao finished second behind Suns forward Amare Stoudemire for Rookie of the Year honors.