Some reports have claimed the center will celebrate another wedding in Houston in autumn, where O'Neal believes he will be among the guests.

"I am sure he has sent the invitation to me," he said.

"I haven't checked my mailbox recently because I travel a lot, but I am sure he did."

Having witnessed Yao's NBA evolution in the past five years, O'Neal has changed his tune on the Chinese player after questioning Yao's ability during his rookie year.

"Obviously Yao has grown into one of the best centers in the league," O'Neal said.

"He is awful (to play against) on both ends. I have to be well prepared before the games against the Rockets.

"The other kid (Yi Jianlian) is also impressive, I know he can shoot, dunk and spin. I am sure he will make his place in the league.

"I am happy to see more and more Chinese players coming up - it is very good for the league as a whole."

O'Neal is widely regarded as the NBA's most dominant centre after winning four NBA championships, three with the Los Angeles Lakers between 2000 and 2002 and one with the Heat last year.

He signed a sponsorship deal with China sportswear manufacturing giant Li-Ning last year and has worn its shoes ever since.

Since moving to Miami in 2004, the center has averaged 22.9 points and 10.4 rebounds.

O'Neal's image, name, shirt number and autograph adorn Li-Ning's basketball products, which are sold in Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and the Chinese mainland.

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