Beijing: Former NBA star Yao Ming resigned Thursday as chairman of the Chinese Basketball Association. Guo Zhenming was elected to replace Yao in an Executive Committee meeting of the 10th Members' Congress of the Chinese Basketball Association on the same day. According to Anadolu Agency, Guo Zhenming expressed his commitment to the role by stating, "Taking over the baton of the Chinese Basketball Association is a heavy responsibility and a glorious mission." Yao Ming, who is 44 years old, mentioned that his decision to resign was made "after careful consideration" and was "based on his personal plan for the development of Chinese basketball." Yao Ming began his tenure as chairman on February 23, 2017. Prior to his role in Chinese basketball administration, Yao was well-known as a starter for the Houston Rockets from 2002 to 2011. During his NBA career, he was recognized as an eight-time NBA All-Star, which highlights his significant impact on the sport both domestically and internationally. The transitio n in leadership from Yao to Guo marks a new chapter for the Chinese Basketball Association, as it continues to build on the foundation laid by Yao's leadership and vision for the sport's development in China.