Yao Ming will be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, according to ESPN's Calvin Watkins.
What happened?
The 7-foot-6 former Houston Rockets center was the first pick in the 2002 draft.
He started his career in Shanghai in the Chinese Basketball Association.
Why it matters for Yao Ming
Yao Ming is given much of the credit for bringing the NBA to China.
NBA merchandise sales and television ratings in China increased during his career.
In 2007, a game his Rockets played against the Milwaukee Bucks was broadcast on 19 networks in China.
What comes next?
The announcement is expected to come at the NCAA Final Four in Houston this weekend.
Yao Ming will not be in Houston for the official announcement, sources tell Watkins.
He was an eight-time NBA All-Star selection, averaging 19 points, 9.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game in eight seasons.
Yao Ming retired in 2011 following a series of foot and ankle injuries.
He was the tallest active player in the NBA at the time of his final season.
Yao Ming was featured in several memorable television ads that played off his imposing size.
He was 35 years old when he retired.
The game against the Milwaukee Bucks, featuring Yi Jianlian, was watched by more than 200 million people in China.
This made it one of the most-watched NBA games in history.
Yao Ming's induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is a significant honor.
He is the first Chinese star to achieve this feat.
Yao Ming's career was marked by his dominant play and charismatic personality.
He was a fan favorite in Houston and around the world.
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Yao Ming's legacy continues to inspire new generations of basketball players.
He remains a beloved figure in the NBA and in China.
The induction ceremony will be a celebration of his achievements.
Yao Ming's impact on the NBA and Chinese basketball will be remembered for years to come.