Yao Ming's Contributions Reach Far Beyond The NBA

Yao Ming has been nothing less than an ambassador to the NBA, China, and the Chinese Basketball Association.

While pursuing further opportunities and entering the NBA draft in 2002, the Chinese super star never forgot where he came from as his dream became reality.

Yao Ming is a very smart person: He knows how much he means to his fans in China. As well as playing in the NBA, Yao always returned home in the offseason to play for team China.

In an effort to bail out the team he played for, the Shanghai Sharks, he purchased the ownership rights from the previous three co-owners.

The Sharks were in dire financial trouble, and in stepped their hero. Yao Ming, 28, is one of China's wealthiest entertainers, as well as an enthusiastic philanthropist.

It shows just how much Yao loves his country, fans, and his old team. He never forgot it was them who gave him the opportunity of a lifetime to play in the NBA.

As a teen, Yao led the Sharks to their only CBA title before departing for the States.

"I grew up in the city and became a professional player [on] this team, so I hope I can do something to help," said Yao.

The Sharks were in danger of not being able to start their season due to the falling finances of the organization, which is seeing its worst deficit in 14 years.

It is estimated that the Yao is worth around $57 million a year with his contract and sponsors: running the Sharks will cost around $20 million.

Obviously, this does not mean he will not see profits from the team, but it is still a gesture of his loyalty to his home country.

Yao Ming is a role model in every sense of the word, he is an inspiration to us all and I'm glad he is a member of the Houston Rockets.