Mr. John Doleva, esteemed members of the Hall of Fame Committee, ladies and gentlemen, good evening:
Start was a mix-up, should have been Allen Iverson. This honor is humbling, a night of cherished memories. While my career may have ended prematurely, each moment cherished.
Gratitude to:
From a basketball-mad China, my parents, legends themselves, instilled in me the touch of finesse and an 83% free throw accuracy – even better than Shaq's.
To my beloved wife Li, our story began amidst adversity...
High school memories: You, my world, our daughter Amy, a treasure, embarks on soccer, not basketball.
Coach Li Zhangmin: Your guidance marked my entry into the game; your inspiring journey, a beacon for many.
Coach Li Qiuping: Your leadership with the Shanghai Sharks, a championship journey through personal loss.
Shanghai, the Sharks, and the CBA: You nurtured and prepared me for the big stage.
"Mirrors reflect," as Mu Zuoyun, a basketball legend, lives on in the CBA Cup's legacy, reflecting our shared passion.
Wang Zhi Zhi: Pioneer, inspiration, my journey wouldn't be the same without your sacrifice and impact.
A journey, still unfolding...
In 2002, I was chosen by the Rockets, their unyielding efforts unseen. Heartfelt thanks to Les Alexander, Michael Goldberg, and more, for making Houston a second home.
The warmth of Steve Francis's welcome, his brotherly embrace, and Cuttino Mobley's invitation to "soul food" (a term of camaraderie), marked my火箭队之初.
Rudy T.'s unwavering "champion's heart" resonated, his resilience both on and off the court, especially in his battle against cancer.
Jeff Van Gundy's hard-nosed defensive strategy, alongside Patrick Ewing and Tom Thibodeau, paired with T-Mac and Shane Battier, forged a competitive unit.
"Best opportunity may come only once," Coach Van Gundy's mantra, the 2008-2009 success with Houston etched in my memory.
Collaboration with Rick Adelman, developing talents like Carl Landry, though injuries cut short my tenure, those days were a radiant chapter.
As a player, facing global elites honed my skills, their strength fueling my growth.
Shaq's words ring true, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Houston, you gave me the strength to rise, forever a Texan and Rocket.
To the NBA, gratitude to David Stern, Adam Silver, and the league, including Team Yao. Our camaraderie, though aging, remains strong.
To Dr. Naismith and the Hall of Fame, for篮球的深远影响. Honored to contribute to its growth, eager to see tomorrow's rising stars.
John Doe, I am grateful for this honor, even with a short career, cherishing every moment.
Bill Russell, Bill Walton, and迪肯贝·穆托姆博, your lessons, friendships, and familial support are invaluable.
Chinese heritage, parents' influence, and the basketball odyssey that shaped me.
To my wife, your love transcends mere height and skills.
Yeli, high school sweethearts, your presence in my life is immeasurable, our daughter Amy's soccer journey a testament to your partnership.
Coach Li章明, your guidance and my entry into the game. Coach Li秋平, the Sharks and CBA's impact on my journey, especially through personal loss.
Gratitude to Shanghai, the Sharks, and CBA for shaping my foundation. In the spirit of reflection,牟作云先生's legacy in the CBA Cup and Wang Zhi Zhi's pioneering spirit, I find inspiration.
2002's draft, the Rockets' faith, especially from Les Alexander, a home away from home.
Rudy Tomjanovich, Jeff Van Gundy, and the coaching legends who pushed me to excel. Alongside T-Mac and Battier, we wrote history together.
Finally, thank you, Rick Adelman, the Rockets, David Stern, the NBA team, and姚之队. Houston, my second homeland, forever a proud Texan and Rocket.
To the篮球 pioneers, I pay my respects. As a player and advocate, I look forward to nurturing the next generation. This honor is a cherished gift.