Like it's been said, Yao doesn't need a nickname. He's got one of the most well known names in the world. Even people that don't know anything about basketball know who Yao is. It even works as a one word moniker, Yao. Just say Yao and people will know who you're talking about. But for the sake of fun, here are my favorites: The Great Wall- Probably the best nick. It's authoritative, has a nice ring to it, and is culturally appropriate and iconic. Chairman Yao- This too has a nice ring to it, and has that authority factor. Might be too political though to gain widespread usage. Yao Ring- After he wins a title, this nick would be perfect. Beast from the Far East- I like this one since it's a slight spin on an established nickname. Would be good as a secondary descriptor of Yao. Yaozilla- I like this one too. Another good secondary nick. Ming Kong- Another play off the beast angle. Doesn't come off the tongue quite as well as it's origin, "King Kong" so I doubt this would catch on. Ming the Merciless- Would've been a good nick 50-60 years ago, but doesn't have the same impact today. Like I said, I doubt any of these nicknames get any sort of major traction. That's not really Yao's style and it's not necessary because his regular name is fine all by itself. But one thing that is completely evident, is that if Yao ever wins multiple titles in a short span, he's got the most ready-made and appropriate period designation of all time in sports: The Ming Dynasty There will never be a more perfect Era designation than that. Here's hoping that Yao and company makes it happen.
yeah, what's up with "Poppy?" Where'd that come from? Is it Yao's gaming nic or something. Is it what his gf calls him. "Who's your Poppy" lol
Apparently that's what T-mac calls Yao: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/4414915.html
I know. I read the chronicle thoroughly every day. so let me ask again. What's up with Poppy? Where'd that come from?
