2002 Topps Chrome Chinese Refractor #146 Yao Ming PSA 9

2002 Topps Chrome Chinese Refractor #146 Yao Ming PSA 9 – A Stunning International Rookie Parallel

When Yao Ming entered the NBA in 2002, he wasn’t just a No. 1 overall draft pick—he was a global phenomenon. Standing 7'6" with a soft shooting touch, elite footwork, and an exceptional basketball IQ, Yao quickly silenced the doubters and became the face of the Houston Rockets and a bridge between the NBA and China. In his rookie year, he was named to the All-Rookie First Team, eventually becoming an 8-time NBA All-Star and a true ambassador of the game. Yao’s legacy is far bigger than his stats—he helped globalize basketball and opened the NBA to an entirely new audience.

This 2002 Topps Chrome Chinese Refractor #146 is one of the most unique and coveted rookie parallels of Yao’s career, featuring his name in Chinese characters alongside a dazzling refractor finish. As part of a rare international subset, this card holds both historical and cultural significance, capturing the exact moment when Yao began rewriting the league’s global reach. This PSA 9 example showcases strong centering, vibrant reflective shine, and clean edges, making it a standout among early-2000s Chrome releases.

For collectors of international icons, rookie refractor parallels, or high-grade Yao Ming cards, this 2002 Chinese Refractor PSA 9 is a prized piece. It’s more than just a rookie card—it’s a tribute to a player who helped reshape the sport’s global identity and became a symbol of basketball’s ever-expanding reach.