Q: What did you and Yao Ming talk about at your recent meeting?

A: I had dinner with him on March 20. One of the things Yao speaks so passionately about is that basketball is not only about winning, but that we can also teach the value of sportsmanship and teamwork to boys and girls.

Q: How much do you know about Wang Zhelin, the potential NBA prospect?

A: I don't know that much, personally. I know he's only roughly 19 years old and has played one year in the CBA so far. I know our teams are watching him very carefully. Ultimately, he will succeed in the NBA based on his game on the court, not where he was born. I will continue to monitor his progress and I hope he will develop into an NBA All-Star one day.

Q: What do you think about Jeremy Lin's performance with the Rockets so far?

A: Jeremy has had a terrific season. I think he has exceeded expectations. He and the Rockets are doing well. He and James Harden are adjusting to each other. I am very pleased with his progress this year.

Q: Would the NBA support FIBA's proposal to have an age limit at the Olympics?

A: We and FIBA agreed that we will continue to study the issue of whether there should be a maximum age for Olympic competition in the same way that there is for soccer. But there are no further developments to report.

Q: What will David Stern do in retirement?

A: David has no intention of disappearing after he steps down and has promised to make himself available to provide me with advice and guidance. And I know he has plans to continue to travel to China on regular basis.

China Daily

(China Daily 03/28/2013 page22)