Rockets center Yao Ming got married yesterday, or two days ago, or perhaps last month (we're not good with the whole International Date Line thing here at Houstonist) to his long-time girlfriend Ye Li. Lest you think that Ye is going to look like a pixie next to 7'6" Yao, keep in mind that she's 6'2" herself. She's a basketball player on China's national team in her own right. Their children will no doubt be gigantic post players with an affinity for outside shooting; Houstonist, for one, welcomes our new Chinese basketball overlords.
The wedding took place in Shanghai, where it was the media event of the year. Security personnel reported outnumbered the hundred or so guests at the ceremony, which took place at the ritzy Shangra-La Hotel. There was some controversy about the reception, where the dinner menu received a share of criticism for the reported inclusion of shark fin, a delicacy in China that is decried by animal rights advocates. Our sister site, Shanghaiist, has the dirt on the debated dish.
Yao and Yi will return to Houston after a round of publicity in Shangai. We wish them the best in their life together, and hope that matrimony will provide Yao with incentive to pick up some more jewelry of his own: a championship ring.
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Photo: flickr user Jeff Balke
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