http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mpl/sports/2516065 "If there's another situation like he got the and-one at the end of the game, I'll pull him down," Yao said. "I won't give him the opportunity." I think Yao finally understands that, in the NBA, respect for a player doesn't mean being nice to him.
I hope after game 1, Yao gets settled in more and becomes more comfortable. Come out aggressive. After reading that article, I think he will. I'm sure his teammates (especially Jim Jackson) and JVG has stuck it to him after his subpar performance.
That was a great learning experience for Yao - long term. I'm glad the papers already noted the Hakeem parallel. Yao will be stronger and smarter on the box because of this.
I completely disagree about his motivation here. When Shaq dunked on him, he only offered some weak touch foul. You could see immediately after the play, JJ motioned that he should have bear-hugged Shaq on that play. I don't think Yao is thinking he needs to get mean, he just regrets not thinking fast enough on that play.
Me likes...He will learn from that game and be more dominant in Game 2...It was his first Playoff game and Yao and the team are up for it... Rox win in 7 games...
Exactly what I was thinking. Seeing that play unfold, Shaq followed the ball and with no hesitation slammed it in. Yao looked off-balance on the shot and just wasn't expecting Shaq to get the ball right under the basket off of a long shot attempt. This is how the playoffs will serve to be a great learning experience for Yao and the rest of the Rockets by learning from their mistakes.
I like what Yao had to say. Whether it's a matter of being aggressive or just thinking more quickly, our big man acknowledges it and he gave a confident quote. Let's beat these Fakers.
Saying and doing are two completely different things. I guess Francis taught him how to say things as a means to ward off criticism. Now if Yao can actually follow up on his words, then he would be deviating from the example set by Francis.
