Ron Artest said that he was excited about going to the Rockets but would join them only if they are committed to him, the Houston Chronicle is reporting.

Artest's comments about commitment stem from Yao Ming?s wariness of the trade.  Ming is happy with the deal but is concerned for team chemistry.

?We?ve still got to make sure there?s still a commitment,? Artest told the Sacramento Bee. ?That?s the main thing. When I speak to the powers-that-be of the Houston Rockets organization, we?re going to find out how much they really want me there.?

?For some reason, I like (Artest),? Yao said, ?because in the games we play against him, I hate him."

?When I text-messaged with Luis (Scola), we talked about team chemistry. That?s only what worries us. We worry about the new attitude to the team. We are adding talent to the team, and we need that, but building team chemistry is important. This is not bad. I don?t mean he is not welcome to Houston. But a new player always needs some time."

?There?s worry. Obviously, yes. ... Hopefully, he?s not fighting anymore and going after a guy in the stands. ... I have to find a way to talk to him and see what we can do as a basketball team. He has a history, but we know he is a physical player. He is a good player. He really can help us.?