Since I don't live in Houston anymore I was curious about something.... What is the local media's opinion on Yao? What are the radio hosts thoughts on him? Are they in favor of him or not? Is there a lot of talk about the Rockets and Yao on local sports radio these days? And what are the callers thoughts as well? Chris
There was a Yao Ming article on the Front Page TOP of the Chronicle yesterdy. The various opinions of radio listeners seem to agree with those on the BBS. But Clutch is definitely more pro Ming than most of the radio hosts. They have been pretty controversial to inspire call ins. For instance, they did get controversial for about a week discussing whether Francis was worth a max extension based on his migraines. You've seen most of the Chronicle articles, right? The journalists seem to be pro Ming. But then again, the Chron rarely if ever discusses trades, and it was clear that we weren't taking Jay Williams. The Chronicle didn't really strike me as buying into the China Rumors except for a Lopez article, but that was kinda just bringing readers up to date on past and existing rumors. my gut instinct is that the local media hasn't really embraced the current Rockets much, but they will go goo-goo over Mings surprising charisma. I think he wins over the city pretty fast. It is going smoothly so far.
The opinion of the hosts is as divided as the folks on here. Most seem to have taken a "wait and see" attitude. Of the eight guys one could see/hear on a regular basis, Charlie Pallilo (two words: "Kelvin Cato") is most in favor of the pick, and Kenny Hand wants them to trade the pick. Callers lean more toward them not taking him...but IMHO are influenced more by the FUD floating around. Given the events of this week, it will be interesting to see whether that changes much. Rocket talk is up (meaning it exists ), much of it about this draft. There is a pretty good buzz going around based upon winning the lottery. I would expect some of it to die down as the Texans ramp-up is starting
The afternoon guys on 610 suck. Their opinion isn't much. They kinda hate Ming not for being Ming but it takes the maway from baseball talk. They don't seem to like Basketball AT ALL. Rocket River
How about the response of local Asian community? I think they are very excited but I want to know if their voice heard?
After working out in Chicago for NBA teams Yao Ming had this to say: Yao Ming Statement: It's been a dream of mine to play in the NBA ever since the first time I saw a game on TV many years ago. To almost touch that dream today fills me with a sense of joy that words simply cannot describe. I am humbled and grateful for the unforgettable experience the past few days. I would like first to thank NBA for hosting this event in the great city of Chicago. The surperb organization demonstrates a level of professionalism that I truly admire. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to all NBA teams for showing interest in me. I am honored by your presence. And I hope I have not disappointed you with my performance today. Proper credit is also due to the members of the media. The game of Cat'n'Mouse is stressful, but your resourcefulness and work ethic are something I think we players should emulate. Journalism is a profession I respect a great deal. Just give me some time to warm up. I look forward to taking each and every one of you to dinner sometimes in the future. But the check is on you if your reporting makes me look bad. Last but certainly not least, I owe the greatest debt of gratitude to the fans of basketball everywhere. You gave me the greatest job on earth. And I promise to repay your trust by respecting the game, and by challenging myself to be the best that I can be. Let the good times roll! I think you are right! HP