CHN - Yao craves trophies like Pau

NEW ORLEANS (Olympics) - If you think Yao Ming has peaked as a player for China and the Houston Rockets, think again.

The 7ft 6in giant, who will lead his national team at the Beijing Games this summer, played in the NBA All-Star Game on Sunday and while in New Orleans, he was asked that very question.

Will he improve?

"I am very demanding when it comes to my game," Yao said.

"What I have managed to achieve is to become a regular player, be more consistent without having too many ups and downs during a game.

"But I have a lot to improve on and learn from. I think the best Yao Ming is yet to come, at least I hope so."

If Yao is going to be better, that's a frightening prospect for his opponents in North America and in international competitions.

In the NBA, he is having a great year, averaging 25 points and more than nine rebounds per game.

China will be hoping that Yao stays healthy and carries his current form to Beijing this summer.

 "The Olympic Games is going to be something very beautiful," he said.

 "The Games, in your country, makes me proud and honored.

"It would be a dream come true to be champions although it´s going to be very difficult."

Yao is one of many international stars who now play in the NBA.

While being interviewed by Spanish sports daily Marca, Yao was told he was a hero back in China just as the Los Angeles Lakers' seven-footer Pau Gasol is in Spain.

"But there is a big difference," Yao answered. "I have not won a world title like Gasol has for Spain and that is very important."

FIBA