CHN/MEX - Future Looks Sun-ny for Ming Ming

MONTERREY (LNBP) - Sun Ming Ming has revealed he is not feeling the pressure of expectation ahead of his first LNBP season with new club Fuerza Regia. At 7ft 9in, Sun is the tallest active basketball player in the world, and all eyes will be on the 23-year-old when he makes his bow for the Mexican outfit on September 6.

The giant center arrived in Monterrey on Tuesday evening to finalise the deal with Fuerza, and was presented to the media at a press conference on Wednesday.

Speaking through his translator, Sun said: "There is no extra pressure on me.

"On the contrary, I feel welcomed by these warm people and I think their support will help me a lot.

"I've taken this challenge because I know the level this league has. I think it's the best in Latin America."

Sun, who currently plies his trade with International Basketball League outfit Grand Rapids Flight, has been in the media spotlight for the past two years during his bid to beat a life-threatening condition.

He moved to the United States in February 2005, hoping to be selected in that year's NBA draft. But when Sun struggled for stamina when working out for NBA teams, concerns were raised about his health.

A subsequent MRI scan revealed that he had a tumour pressed against his pituitary gland, which caused an excess of growth hormone, but following two operations to remove the tumour in 2005 and 2006, Sun is approaching full fitness.

He added: "I came to Monterrey because of its culture, which is very similar to the Chinese for its values, such as family.

"I was aware of the level teams have here. I still have to improve my level, but I know I shoot very well and I block very well. You have to watch me play!"

Sun will move to Monterrey on a permanent basis in early July to begin pre-season training.

FIBA