78R4070 JHS-D

By:  Wong                                                         H.R. No. 158



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, Houston Rockets rookie sensation Yao Ming has been 
voted as the starting center for the Western Conference team in the 
National Basketball Association All-Star Game to be played on 
February 9, 2003, in Atlanta, Georgia; and
	WHEREAS, The number one pick in the 2002 NBA Draft, Yao Ming 
is averaging 12.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game in 
his first season; the 7'5" rookie from China has quickly captured 
the attention of basketball fans in Houston and around the world 
with his incredible size and his indelible smile; and
	WHEREAS, Yao Ming is the first rookie to be voted to the 
starting lineup since Grant Hill in 1995 and the first Asian player 
to be selected for the NBA midseason classic; and
	WHEREAS, With an abundance of natural talent and an 
irreproachable work ethic, Yao Ming has made giant strides during 
his first season in the NBA, gaining the respect of teammates and 
opponents alike, and he will undoubtedly represent himself, his 
country, and his adopted hometown with dignity and honor at this 
year's All-Star Game; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature hereby congratulate Yao Ming on his selection as a 2003 
Western Conference All-Star starter and extend to him best wishes 
for continued success in the season ahead; and, be it further

	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 
prepared for Yao Ming as an expression of high regard by the Texas 
House of Representatives.