On Aug. 24, after missing an entire season following complex foot surgery, seven-time All-Star center Yao Ming was cleared for a full return to basketball. The Rockets expected all along to have their 7-foot-6 center back for the upcoming season, but before receiving clearance from doctors, Yao told reporters that if he wasn't able to make a complete comeback, he would consider retiring. GM Daryl Morey says the team will be cautious with Yao and limit his minutes early in the season.

But Yao's not the only one trying to make a successful return from an injury. Here's a look at some other big names in the same situation.