Yao Ming's emergence in the NBA sparked a surge in popularity for the league in China, with his first game against Shaquille O'Neal and the Los Angeles Lakers attracting over 200 million viewers in 2002.
What happened?
The 7-foot-6 center from Shanghai was drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2002 NBA draft by the Houston Rockets, becoming an instant sensation in China.
He was born in 1980, a year that marked the beginning of China's economic reforms, and his parents' generation emerged hungry from the suffering and political turmoil they grew up in.
Why it matters for Yao Ming
Yao's experience is closely tied to that of his fans, with his clean image and charisma making him a relatable figure, despite his unusual height and playing style.
Former NBA commissioner David Stern's efforts to globalize the NBA took root in China in 1987, the same year China Central Television began broadcasting NBA games.
What comes next?
Yao's retirement in 2011 due to injury issues marked the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire Chinese basketball fans, with his influence extending beyond the court to the business world.
And his decision to return to China after his NBA career has led to new opportunities, with Yao stating in a 2014 interview with Der Spiegel that "there is more opportunity [in China]".
The country's gross domestic product per capita rose from $302 in 1987 to $1,149 by 2002, a period that saw Yao's emergence as a global sports star.
Yao's fellow Chinese athletes, such as Liu Xiang and Li Na, also achieved great success during this period, with Liu winning a gold medal in the 110-meter hurdles at the 2004 Olympics.
So Yao's impact on Chinese basketball fans is still felt today, with his legacy continuing to inspire new generations of players and fans.
But Yao's influence extends beyond the court, with his business ventures and philanthropic efforts making a positive impact on his community.
The Houston Rockets, Yao's former team, remain a popular team in China, with many fans still loyal to the team that drafted Yao in 2002.
Yao's story is one of perseverance and dedication, with his journey from a young boy in Shanghai to a global sports star inspiring countless fans around the world.