"Center Yao Ming returned to Rockets practice Sunday, restricted by the bone bruise in his left ankle to the video session, riding the stationary bicycle and free throws but determined to be optimistic.

Yao, 30, learned last week that he would be out at least two more weeks, but he said he was relieved that the examination showed no complications in his surgically repaired foot.

"Be positive," Yao said. "It already happened. It could be a lot worse. At least that proves it was a very successful surgery in that area. We just need to deal with another injury."

Yao was concerned with how the time off will diminish his conditioning."