Yao, McGrady missing in action

HOUSTON, Texas – Chinese superstar center Yao Ming and forward Tracy McGrady were among those not in uniform Tuesday as the Houston Rockets began their NBA pre-season training camp.

Seven-time NBA All-Star Yao is recovering from surgery to repair a broken left foot and is expected to miss the entire 2009-2010 season while McGrady underwent microfracture surgery upon his left knee last February.

“Far ahead of schedule” is how McGrady described his rehabilitation status after seven months but added, “It’s not time to really rush it back. Confidence-wise – running, cutting, jumping – I have that right now.” (AP)