Houston, who improved to 10-5, led 30-21 after the first quarter and although Miami edged the next two sessions, the Rockets still took an 80-75 advantage into the fourth.
With the towering Yao in dominating form, the lead was never in danger. Despite an impressive display from Mario Chalmers, who along with Dwayne Wade picked up 23 points, Miami were left with a 7-7 record.
With the smallest line-up in the NBA, Miami were always going to struggle against the 7 ft 6 ins (2.26-meter) Yao. Their only hope was if they could play at a speed Houston's big men found difficult.
That happened at times and Miami were also effective from distance, with Chalmers producing five three-pointers.