Yao Ming’s Houston Rockets career looks as if it could be over following the discovery of stress fracture in his left ankle on Thursday.

In a press release, the club announced:

“An MRI performed today (Thursday) on Rockets center Yao Ming revealed a stress fracture of the Medial Malleolus in his left ankle. The fracture, which is related to his previous injury of the Tarsal Navicular bone, presented itself during the course of his current rehabilitation program. There is no timetable for his return at this time.

“The team will have no additional comment at this time. Information regarding his treatment program will be made available at a later date.”

The injury has cast further doubt on the injury-plagued Chinese giant’s future in the game.

The 7ft 6in Yao missed all of last season after having foot and ankle surgery and didn’t play for China at the FIBA World Championship this year in Turkey. He has played a total of just five games this season before re-injuring himself.

“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.”

Yao, who is earning $17.7million this season – the last of his contract with Houston – has grown accustomed to answering questions about his injuries.

“I haven’t died,” he said to the American media. “Right now I’m drinking a beer and eating fried chicken. What were you expecting, a funeral?”

Read the full article at FIBA.com.