East Meets West: Rockets Sign Latest Chinese Sponsor

Rockets Debut New Chinese Sponsor During First-Ever NBA Meeting Between Yao (l) And Yi

The Rockets have signed China-based IT company Founder Group as a sponsor of the Toyota Center, an indication that Rockets C Yao Ming's "influence is spreading," according to Greg Barr of the BUSINESS JOURNAL OF MILWAUKEE.  Under the deal, Founder Group will receive courtside signage during Rockets games,  and "will explore future marketing deals with the team."  The signage debuted Friday night at the Bucks-Rockets game, featuring Yao and Bucks F Yi Jianlian, the Chinese player the Bucks drafted with the No. 6 overall pick in June's NBA Draft.  The Bucks intend to "pursue similar sponsorship deals" with Chinese companies.  Additionally, Chinese athletic shoe manufacturer ANTA Sports Products signed Rockets F Luis Scola to an endorsement contract.  Rockets G Steve Francis signed on with ANTA in September (BUSINESS JOURNAL OF MILWAUKEE, 11/9 issue).