HONG KONG, July 16 -- Retired Basketball superstar Yao Ming on Thursday met with over 1,000 Hong Kong middle school students and teachers at Hong Kong Southorn Stadium to share the experiences of his athletic career and pass on some of his basketball skills.

Yao showed his shooting and passing skills with six student athletes. Though Yao retired four years ago, he still maintained at a high level. His accurate shooting won warm applause from the students.

When answering questions from the students, the former NBA center said "I always want to make contribution to the society. As you know, my father was a basketball player and had made great achievements. As an old Chinese saying goes 'the son follows in his father's footsteps,' I want to be as good as my father."

Talking about his NBA career, Yao said that was a quite a bit of pressure. "I think the gratitude is important, and you can only overcome your shortcomings by recognizing them. "

He also stressed on communication "especially with who you trust, like your parents and friends, you can amend yourself by getting closer to the society."

"I hope the younger generation can surpass us," Yao said.

Speaking at the event, Hong Kong's Secretary for Education Ng Hak-kim said "the determination and perseverance with which Mr Yao overcame the challenges throughout his basketball career make him a role model for our students."

The event, entitled "Yao Ming and You: Close Encounter with the Living Legend," aims at promoting positive attitudes and values among students.

Yao is a retired Chinese professional basketball player who played for the Houston Rockets of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was selected to start for the Western Conference in the NBA All-Star Game eight times, and was named to the All-NBA Team five times.