Yao yet to be back

(BEIJING, June 19)-- spokesman for Houston Rockets center Yao Ming told reporters on June 16 that it was still too early to have Yao play in friendly matches for the Chinese national men's basketball team, even though he has been enjoying a smooth recovery.

According to the spokesman, an examination of Yao's left foot on June 16 revealed positive progress. Reports that Yao would return to China on June 24 and compete in the FIBA Stankovi