Bodog Beat

The Beijing Games could miss its biggest star, Rockets center Yao Ming. (AP Images)

Yao Ming's injury has affected more than his season with the Houston Rockets. With Beijing Olympics approaching this summer, China's superstar may not be ready to play.

"When we heard about Yao's injury, we felt shocked and concerned just like all the basketball fans in China," Bai Ximin said, manager of the men's national team.

Yao averaged 22 points and 10.8 rebounds with the Rockets and was sure to be the best player on the Chinese basketball team and a huge focus of the games. Although it's looking pretty unlikely that he'll return for the games, Chinese papers remain optimistic.

"The only thing offering Yao Ming any solace at this time is that his injury will not force him to miss the Beijing Olympics of his dreams," Chinese newspaper Titan Sports said.

The team likely wouldn't have grabbed a medal in the Olympics but stand to lose viewership if he isn't able to play.

"If I cannot play in the Olympics for my country this time, it will be the biggest loss in my career to right now," Yao said.

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