When I was watching the Philly game, I noticed that on a few occassions, it didn't seem like Yao knew when a shot had gone up. Seemed like he was looking away, trying to get position, and by then the shot had already gone up and the rebound grabbed by someone else. I know he's probably a little timid out there, which is totally understandable. Just wondering if anyone else saw this?
I didn't watch much of the game, so I didn't notice it tonight. But overall, I notice that Yao is somewhat lacking in defensive awareness/instincts. Hopefully this will develop overtime, which it should.
There was actually one play toward the end of the game when a Philly shot went up, came off the rim, dropped straight down to the ground, and was grabbed by a Philly player. Yao was right there, and it should have been an extremely easy rebound. I'm not really sure what happened on that play.
Yea I did notice that. But it appears to me Yao is concentrating on positioning and not really following the ball. I'm sure this will get better as he adjusts. Afterall, things move 10x faster than he's used to.
I also think it is due to the fact that we may be shooting quicker than he expects. He did mention how quick we do run the play compared to China who let the clock go down. It also tell us that we probably have a tendency to break out of the play and not be patient enough to get the better opportunity.
I did not see the game, but I read a quote somewhere that Yao actually mentioned that he missed a couple of rebounds in the second half that he should have had. So at least he is recognizing what he needs to work on. Go get em big fella!!
