Yao Ming, the most influential Asian player to ever see action in theNBA, flew in last week in Manila to join the Shanghai Sharks for thePhilippines-China Friendship Games featuring a couple of exhibitiongames with Smart Gilas Pilipinas 2 and a PBA selection last May 6 & 7.

The former Houston Rockets star spent a day with the children at thePhilsports Arenain Pasig City and did some cage clinics. Yao was aneight-time All-Star, made it to the All-NBA Second Team twice andAll-NBA Third Team three times. Injuries caused the 7 foot and 6 Yao,to retire three years ago.Off the court, Yao took part in many charity events, including theNBAs Basketball, Without Borders program. Yao Ming was happy to beable to offer inspirational advice to the street kids of Pasig City,Manila and give them hope to fulfill their dreams.