McDonald's, the world's largest restaurant chain, is expected to announce a global marketing partnership with Chinese Houston Rockets star, Yao Ming.
Becoming the first international player to be selected first in the NBA draft in 2002, the 23-year-old Shanghai native won over fans in the United States in his first two seasons for his play and easy-going style.
After landing in the NBA, Yao Ming has already endorsed deals with major sponsors such as shoemaker Reebok and Apple Computer.
This Sunday, he will start in the National Basketball Association's All-Star Game in Los Angeles.