HOUSTON, Texas - Yao Ming, the Chinese giant who became the first superstar basketball player from Asia, could enter the Basketball Hall of Fame as early as next year as a contributor to the game.

John Doleva, president and chief executive of the shrine, said Tuesday that Yao has been nominated by a member of the Chinese media and his credentials will be considered by an international panel.

As a contributor, Yao could be elected to the Hall in the 2012 class, while as a player, he would not be eligible for consideration until five years after he retired.