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Career Year for Yao

The most dominant center in the game today is Yao Ming. The leading vote getter for the All-Star game is having a career year averaging career best in points, rebounds and blocked shots. Ever since he got back from injury, Yao has been on a rampage devouring anything and anyone on his way. He is aggressively driving to the hoop. He looks like he wants to tear down the rim, but just slide in for a jump-hook. The fall away is still there, but more often than not Yao is looking to make strong moves to the hoop.

Yao has taken on the responsibility of carrying the team while Tracy McGrady struggles through his shooting slump. Yao is averaging 21.7 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 2.29 blocks per game - all career-best numbers. More than just the numbers, Yao is finally looking like a force to be reckoned with. Guards aren`t looking to drive on him like they have in the past. It`s like he has served notice that the paint belongs to him and anyone coming inside can expect a rude welcome. THIS is what we`ve been waiting to see from Yao Ming!

He is a great guy to talk to, very giving of his time, and is a tremendous role model for his community and his country. But he has fallen well short of the expectations set by his impressive averages from Team China, not to mention the image you get from standing next to someone 7`5". You can`t help but think that this guy is going to be the next unstoppable force in the NBA. And now, finally, he`s starting to look like he will be.