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FILE - In this Oct. 13, 2004, file photo Houston Rockets' Yao Ming answers questions from journalists during a press conference for the NBA China 2004 game in Shanghai, China. Yao Ming should make it official on Wednesday July 20, 2011, announcing what is Eugene Hoshiko, File, Associated Press
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FILE - In this May 8, 2009, file photo, Houston Rockets center Yao Ming, left, of China, and Los Angeles Lakers forward Pau Gasol, right, of Spain, compete for a rebound during an NBA Western Conference playoff basketball game. Yao Ming should make it of Eric Gay, File, Associated Press
By Associated Press

SHANGHAI — Yao Ming has made it official, telling a packed news conference in his hometown that a series of injuries have forced him to retire from basketball.

The 7-fooot-6 center, who became a household name in China before starting his NBA career with the Houston Rockets as the top draft pick in 2002, said: "I will formally end my career."

Yao played eight seasons in the NBA, but missed 250 regular-season games over the past six years.

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Houston general manager Daryl Morey attended Yao's farewell conference Wednesday, and NBA Commissioner David Stern was scheduled to send a message via video link. Morey had to get permission from the NBA to be attend because the lockout prohibits contact with players.

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