The Chinese center, a second-round pick in 2016 who has agreed to a multi-year deal with the Rockets, has the tools to develop into a versatile modern big man if he reaches his potential. (1:41)

The Houston Rockets have agreed to a multiyear contract with 7-foot-2 Zhou Qi, league sources told ESPN. Editor's Picks Why China and the NBA have been waiting for Zhou Qi

The final structure of the deal is still undergoing final touches, but Zhou will join the Rockets for the 2017-18 season, league sources said.

Zhou, who is from China and was the 43rd pick in the 2016 NBA draft, comes to the Rockets 15 years after the franchise drafted Hall of Famer Yao Ming with the No. 1 overall pick.

While Zhou (whose full name is pronounced Joe Chee) is considered a long-term developmental prospect, his arrival to the Rockets for the 2017-18 season will be met with tremendous enthusiasm in the Far East. Beyond his shot-blocking and rebounding strengths at 7-foot-2, he has shown an ability to stretch the floor as a three-point shooter.

Zhou, listed at 21 years old, played three seasons for the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in the Chinese Basketball Association. He was part of the 2016 CBA champions and was the CBA's defensive player of the year.