As a sports data analyst with a background in behavioral psychology, I’ve dissected the careers of basketball giants. Yao Ming’s legacy wasn’t defined by talent—but by health. In his prime, a fit and agile Yao could’ve matched Nikola Jokić’s impact. But poor coaching decisions, like forced weight gain, derailed his longevity. This isn’t just nostalgia—it’s data-driven truth. Let’s explore how one decision cost a legend years of dominance.