Rockets center Yao Ming's career, which began with spectacular hope and promise, could be facing its greatest threat.
An MRI performed Thursday found a stress fracture in Yao's left ankle five months after he said he might have to retire if he cannot stay healthy.
Yao, however, held out hope that he can come back from his latest setback.
"I have been working hard to get back on the court, so today's news was very disappointing for me," Yao said. "I will need some time to speak with my doctors to figure out my options moving forward, but I want to thank all those who have expressed their support for me during this time."
The latest injury is in the medial malleolus, which is on the inside of the ankle. The previous injury, which required massive reconstructive surgery in July 2009, was to the tarsal navicular bone at the top of the ankle. But the injuries are considered related.
