Rockets center Yao Ming says he's ready to return to the court, but he has not been cleared because team doctors want him to strengthen the muscles in his left ankle.
Yao hasn't played since injuring the ankle on Nov. 10 against the Wizards.
"I'm waiting for the green light," Yao said. "When? I don't know. I feel better. It still has some weakness. I'm just not ready to sit out for almost 20 games, particularly when I feel I'm OK. I know when I was in the walking boot, on the crutches, OK, I understand.
"I won't push the trainer or the doctor. They all try to treat me the best that they can. I know they try to find the best way for me to get back on the court."
Houston coach Rick Adelman said he has not been told when Yao will be cleared to practice.