Hoops star Yao becomes a dad

China's star NBA centre Yao Ming and wife Ye Li are the proud parents of a baby girl, a statement released by his US representatives said yesterday.

The baby was born in Houston on Friday and weighs 7 pounds, 9 ounces.

"I am very excited about the arrival of our daughter," Yao said.

"This is a very special moment in our lives and we thank everyone for their kindness and support."

The couple's decision to return to their home in Houston, where Yao plays for the NBA's Rockets, had sparked some debate among Yao's fans in China, some of whom were dismayed by the idea the child could have an American passport.

Yao and his wife returned to the US earlier this year after spending several months in China as he recovered from a broken foot that forced him to miss the entire NBA season.