Up until now, I have dismissed all the "China conspiracy" theories as a waste of time. I even posted along those lines. However, why on earth wouldn't he attend the draft? He goes number one...millions of people watching...an incredible achievement...massive pride for Yao AND China. Instead, he is not coming due to a 'nothing' game...a friendly with nothing at stake. It just doesn't seem logical. Certainly, it's not exactly a good beginning IMO. This pick has so much potential to go HORRIBLY wrong that it is scarey... I am beginning to just think 'trade it' and move on. Can anyone give a logical reason why they wouldn't want Yao to attendthe draft?!
reasons: Chinese National team is training in Beijing. Ming is the most important player. Without Ming, that whole team training has to stop. On June 30, their is a high level basketball tournament , China have to cherish this chance and get well prepare for it. Ming should attend seriously. It is a matter of team's reputation. The round trip to USA IS a nightmare to anyone. It will take Ming at least 10 days to recover. For the sake of basketball, Ming should not attend the meeting.
Plus he will be on your tv screens by telebroadcast from China to New York and we will probably get to see him put on the Rockets hat. Maybe even give a few one liners to whomever interviews him. It should be just as good to the viewers as if he were actually there. Dont you remember when players names are announced and that ackward sequence where they have to hug the family & friends, take a pic with Stern at the podium, then have the post selection interview with the TNT people. I would not want to be Ming and have to listen to Charles Barkley spouting his verbal nonsense about whatever he wants to say. This way Yao can just do a quick photo putting on the Rocket cap and then the interview and be done with it. Effective and satisfies all parties!
