Seriously I dont know why everyone is so incredulous about this. At least in Soccer, there is a whole history of top players playing for crazy clubs (e.g. Paul Gascoigne playing in China), just to prolong the action a little longer. And supporting Yao is definitely the most likely way for him to continue as a backup. Unless some cool young dude of a center comes along for him to "tutor". Id be happy to bet with someone at even money that IF he is playing in 4 years time, it is as Yao's backup. i.e. there is no payout either way if he retires.
