Yao Ming gets big new deal with Rockets

HOUSTON, Sept. 1 (UPI) -- The Houston Rockets Thursday confirmed the signing of center Yao Ming to a multi-year contract extension.

Terms were not disclosed.

Yao, a native of China, can earn the maximum value permitted under the NBA's new collective bargaining agreement. The Houston Chronicle reported he will make almost $6 million next season.

"This is an exciting time for the Rockets," Houston owner Leslie Alexander said during a conference call. "Yao is going to be a part of the Rockets for a long time. I feel he'll become one of the great players in NBA history. He's got the size, intelligence, youth and quickness to be a phenomenal, forceful player in the league."

The 7-foot-5 inch, 296-pounder, was the first overall selection in the 2002 NBA Draft and is a three-time NBA All-Star. In 244 career games, he has per game averages of 16.4 points, 8.5 rebounds and nearly two blocked shots.