Houston Rockets#Mascots

{{Main|History of the Houston Rockets}}

File:Elvin Hayes 1969.jpg was selected first overall by the San Diego Rockets in the 1968 NBA draft.]]

The Rockets were founded in 1967 in San Diego by Robert Breitbard, who paid an entry fee of US$1.75 million to join the NBA as an expansion team for the 1967–68 season.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/life/article/Owners-fans-waited-years-before-Rockets-took-off-2045395.php|title=Owners, fans waited years before Rockets took off|work=Houston Chronicle|date=September 20, 2001|access-date=May 13, 2008}}{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/history/uniforms_rockets.html |title=Going Retro: Houston Rockets |work=NBA.com |access-date=May 13, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151119064025/http://www.nba.com/history/uniforms_rockets.html |archive-date=November 19, 2015 |url-status=dead }} The NBA wanted to add more teams in the Western United States and chose San Diego based on the city's strong economic and population growth, along with the local success of an ice hockey team owned by Breitbard, the San Diego Gulls of the Western Hockey League. The San Diego International Sports Center, which opened the previous year and was also owned by Breitbard, would serve as home to the new franchise. A local contest to name the franchise chose the name "Rockets",AP report in Fort Myers (FL) News-Press, April 28, 1967, p.D-1 as it paid homage to San Diego's theme of "a city in motion" and the local arm of General Dynamics developing the Atlas missile and booster rocket program.{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YcoExgitXTYC&pg=PA70|title=Bob Breitbard: San Diego's Sports Keeper|first=Dan|last=Fulop|pages=68–70|publisher=Author House|year=2012|isbn=978-1-4772-4396-1}}

Breitbard brought in Jack McMahon, then-coach of the Cincinnati Royals, to serve as the Rockets' coach and general manager.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/coaches/mcmahja01c.html |title=Jack McMahon |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 13, 2008}} The team, which would join the league along with the Seattle SuperSonics, then built its roster with both veteran players at an expansion draft, and college players from the 1967 NBA draft, where San Diego's first ever draft pick was Pat Riley.{{cite news |url=http://www.nba.com/encyclopedia/hof_2008.html |title=NBA Hall of Fame 2008 |date=April 7, 2008 |work=NBA.com |access-date=May 13, 2008}} In their first two games of the season, the Rockets were up against the St. Louis Hawks, and lost both of those games.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/196710140SDR.html|title=St.Louis Hawks at San Diego Rockets Box Score, October 14, 1967|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 30, 2019}}{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/196710170SDR.html|title=St. Louis Hawks at San Diego Rockets Box Score, October 17, 1967|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 30, 2019}} Their first win in franchise history came the very next game which occurred three days after against the SuperSonics. The Rockets won on the road, 121–114. Johnny Green recorded 30 points and 25 rebounds for the Rockets.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/196710200SEA.html|title=San Diego Rockets at Seattle SuperSonics Box Score, October 20, 1967|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 30, 2019}} The following game, the SuperSonics held a 15-point lead for most of the first half, before the Rockets mounted a comeback to force overtime. The SuperSonics eventually pulled away and won the game, 117–110, though Art Williams recorded the first ever triple-double in franchise history, as he recorded 17 points, 15 rebounds and 13 assists for the Rockets.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/196710210SDR.html|title=Seattle SuperSonics at San Diego Rockets Box Score, October 21, 1967|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 30, 2019}} The expansion Rockets ultimately lost 67 games in their inaugural season,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/SDR/1968.html |title=1967–68 San Diego Rockets |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 13, 2008}} which was an NBA record for losses in a season at the time.{{cite magazine |url=https://vault.si.com/vault/1968/03/25/a-roundup-of-the-sports-information-of-the-week/ |title=A Roundup Of The Sports Information Of The Week |date=March 25, 1968 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |access-date=May 13, 2008|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131030120106/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1080988/index.htm|archive-date=October 30, 2013}}

In 1968, after the Rockets won a coin toss against the Baltimore Bullets to determine who would have the first overall pick in the 1968 NBA draft,{{cite book |last=Kalb |first=Elliott |title=Who's Better, Who's Best in Basketball? |publisher=McGraw-Hill Professional |year=2003 |page=302 |isbn=978-0-07-141788-4}} they selected Elvin Hayes from the University of Houston.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/draft/NBA_1968.html |title=1968 NBA Draft |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 18, 2009}} Hayes improved the Rockets' record to 37 wins and 45 losses, enough for the franchise's first ever playoff appearance in 1969,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/SDR/1969.html |title=1968–69 San Diego Rockets |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 13, 2008}} but the Rockets lost in the semi-finals of the Western Division to the Atlanta Hawks, four games to two. The Rockets limped to a 27–55 finish in the 1969–70 season, before missing the playoffs by just one game in the 1970–71 season.

Off the court, Breitbard was facing serious financial losses due to a controversial ongoing tax-assessment issue that had plagued his San Diego Sports Arena since it was built. He was also still on the hook for paying off the NBA expansion fee for the Rockets, in addition to construction-related bonds on the arena, which he had built with private funding. To make matters worse, the American professional sports economy had begun to plummet in the late 1960s, and professional basketball was being hit particularly hard with nearly all franchises in the NBA and ABA operating at a financial loss at this time.

On January 26, 1970, during an emotional press conference on the floor of the Sports Arena, Breitbard addressed the San Diego fans regarding his dire finances and the state of his Rockets basketball and Gulls hockey teams. "...We have been served an eviction notice..." Breitbard announced. "I've tried to work quietly, to iron this out. But, at the moment it appears impossible. I don't want to sell. I'm not interested in selling outside of San Diego. It seems to me the Rockets and Gulls are part of this town. This arena, the Gulls, the Rockets, are a part of me, and our fans have been wonderful to us." Over the next nearly year and a half, numerous fans circulated petitions and lobbied local officials to help keep the Rockets and Gulls afloat and in San Diego. Several proposals surrounded providing financial aid or payment relief to Breitbard, or having the City and/or County of San Diego take ownership of the arena were discussed, but Breitbard was running out of time. At least 14 private offers for the Rockets were made to Breitbard, though all would have resulted in the team being relocated out of San Diego, which Breitbard was adamantly opposed to. The tax-assessment situation surrounding the Sports Arena (which was the only large arena in the region) ultimately made the prospect of another local owner purchasing the team infeasible.

On January 12, 1971, the Rockets hosted the 1971 NBA All-Star Game at the San Diego Sports Arena, a close contest in which the West beat the East 108–107 in front of a packed house of 14,378 fans.

On June 23, 1971, the San Diego Rockets were abruptly sold by Breitbard to a Houston–based investment group. The NBA hurriedly approved the sale, believing the franchise was on the verge of folding. News of the sale broke before the coaches, players, and team employees and executives could even be notified. Local officials in San Diego were also caught by surprise.

In their fourth and final season in existence, the San Diego Rockets missed the playoffs by just one game in the standings.{{cite web|last=Krasovic|first=Tom|title=Sale of his NBA team pained a San Diegan years later; Dean Spanos after his move, not so much|url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/sd-sp-chargers-nba-san-diego-rockets-20180620-story.html|access-date=December 21, 2020|website=sun-sentinel.com|archive-date=September 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927222854/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/sd-sp-chargers-nba-san-diego-rockets-20180620-story.html|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|title=NBA Home Attendance Totals|url=http://www.apbr.org/attendance.html|access-date=December 21, 2020|website=www.apbr.org}}

Texas Sports Investments bought the franchise for $5.6 million and moved the team to Houston before the start of the 1971–72 season. The franchise became the first NBA team in Texas,{{cite web|url=http://texasalmanac.com/sites/default/files/images/NBAtexasWeb.pdf|title=Professional Basketball in Texas|work=Texas Almanac|access-date=May 13, 2008|archive-date=April 16, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130416061604/http://www.texasalmanac.com/sites/default/files/images/NBAtexasWeb.pdf|url-status=dead}} and the nickname "Rockets" took on even greater relevance after the move, given Houston's long connection to the space industry.Houston, whose nickname is "Space City" has been home to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center for over 45 years.{{cite web|url=http://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/home/index.html|title=Johnson Space Center|publisher=NASA|access-date=May 13, 2008}} The Astros and Comets also gave their teams similar space-themed names. Houston previously was awarded an NBA expansion franchise along with Buffalo, Cleveland and Portland on February 6, 1970,[https://www.nytimes.com/1970/02/07/archives/nba-adds-cleveland-houston-buffalo-portland-ore-knicks-win-13592.html "N.B.A. Adds Cleveland, Houston, Buffalo, Portland, Ore.," The New York Times, Saturday, February 7, 1970.] Retrieved March 10, 2023. but the new entry folded six weeks later on March 20 when its investment group led by Alan Rothenberg failed to make the $750,000 down payment on the $3.7 million entrance fee required before the league's college player draft.[https://www.nytimes.com/1970/03/21/archives/houston-new-team-in-nba-folds-while-its-still-on-paper.html "Houston, New Team in N.B.A., Folds While It's Still on Paper," The New York Times, Saturday, March 21, 1970.] Retrieved March 10, 2023.

Before the start of the season, Hannum left for the Denver Rockets of the American Basketball Association – later renamed Denver Nuggets, who joined the NBA in 1976 –{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/coaches/hannual01c.html |title=Alex Hannum Coaching Record |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 14, 2008}} and Tex Winter was hired in his place.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/coaches/wintete99c.html |title=Tex Winter Coaching Record |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 14, 2008}} In the first six games of the 1971–72 season in Winter's first head coaching season, the Rockets all lost those games with an average of around 15 points per game. Their first win of the season came on October 26, 1971, with a 104–103 win over the home team, Detroit Pistons.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/197110260DET.html|title=Houston Rockets at Detroit Pistons Box Score, October 26, 1971|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 29, 2019}} Their second win of the season came five days later, a 102–87 win over the Buffalo Braves.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/197110310HOU.html|title=Buffalo Braves at Houston Rockets Box Score, October 31, 1971|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 29, 2019}} After that game, the Rockets lost their next 8 games, against the Knicks, Trail Blazers, Bullets (twice), Warriors, Celtics, Bucks and Bulls. Their next win was on November 17 on the road against the 76ers.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/197111170PHI.html|title=Houston Rockets at Philadelphia 76ers Box Score, November 17, 1971|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 29, 2019}} However, Winter's clashes with Hayes, due to a system that contrasted with the offensive style to which Hayes was accustomed, made Hayes ask for a trade, leaving for the Baltimore Bullets at the end of the 1971–72 season.{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/history/hayes_bio.html |title=Elvin Hayes Bio |work=NBA.com |access-date=May 14, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214041740/http://www.nba.com/history/hayes_bio.html |archive-date=February 14, 2015 |url-status=dead }}

It was also around this time that the Rockets would unveil their classic yellow and red logo and accompanying uniforms used until the end of the 1994–95 season. Winter left soon after, being fired in January 1973 following a ten-game losing streak, and was replaced by Johnny Egan.{{cite news|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=860&dat=19730122&id=t3FUAAAAIBAJ&sjid=o48DAAAAIBAJ&pg=5479,1142232 |title=Tex Winter Fired |newspaper=Ellensburg Daily Register|agency=UPI|date=January 22, 1973|access-date=May 15, 2008}} Egan led the Rockets back to the playoffs in 1975, where the franchise also won their first round against the New York Knicks, subsequently losing to the veteran Boston Celtics in 5 games. At that time the Rockets gained popularity in Houston, selling out several home games during the regular season as the Rockets battled for a playoff spot and then selling out all of their home playoff games.{{cite web|title=1974–76: A Glimmer Of Progress |url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#6 |publisher=Houston Rockets |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011220024939/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 20, 2001 |access-date=November 3, 2015 |url-status=dead}}

In the 1975–76 season the Rockets finally had a permanent home in Houston as they moved into The Summit, which they would call home for the next 29 years. During the period, the franchise was owned by Kenneth Schnitzer, developer of the Greenway Plaza which included The Summit.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/11/03/business/kenneth-l-schnitzer-70-dies-innovative-houston-developer.html|title=Kenneth L. Schnitzer, 70, Dies; Innovative Houston Developer|first=Robert D. Jr.|last=Hershey|website=The New York Times|date=November 3, 1999|access-date=October 25, 2015}} After missing the 1976 playoffs, Tom Nissalke was hired as a coach, and pressed the team to add a play-making guard in college standout John Lucas and a rebounding center through Moses Malone, who he had coached in the ABA.{{cite magazine |title=Up, Up, and Away|author=Curtis, Gregory|magazine=Texas Monthly|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iSsEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA141|date=July 1977|pages=141–6}} The additions had an immediate impact, with the 1976–77 Rockets winning the Central Division and going all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals, losing to the Julius Erving's Philadelphia 76ers 4 games to 2.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1975.html |title=1974–75 Houston Rockets |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 15, 2008}} The following season had the team regressing to just 28 wins due to an injury to captain Tomjanovich, who got numerous facial fractures after being punched by Kermit Washington of the Los Angeles Lakers and wound up spending five months in rehabilitation.{{cite magazine |url=http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1093209/1/index.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091112210405/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1093209/1/index.htm|archive-date=November 12, 2009 |title=Shattered And Shaken |last=Kirkpatrick |first=Curry |date=January 2, 1978 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |access-date=May 29, 2008}}{{cite news |url=http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/ccovtue.htm |title=New start from old wounds |last=Moore |first=David Leon |date=November 26, 2002 |work=USA Today |access-date=May 29, 2008}}{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1978.html |title=1977–78 Houston Rockets |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 29, 2008}} After trading Lucas to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Rick Barry,{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/history/players/barry_bio.html |title=Rick Barry Bio |work=NBA.com |access-date=May 29, 2008}} the Rockets returned to the playoffs in 1978–79, with "The Chairman Of The Boards" Moses Malone receiving the 1979 MVP Award,{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/history/players/malonem_bio.html |title=Moses Malone Bio |work=NBA.com |access-date=May 15, 2008}} but the team was swept 2–0 by Atlanta in the first round.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1979.html |title=1978–79 Houston Rockets |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 29, 2008}} Nissalke was let go, and assistant Del Harris was promoted to head coach.{{cite web|title=History: 1978–80: Malone Shines, But Houston Stumbles In Playoffs |url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#9 |publisher=Houston Rockets |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011220024939/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 20, 2001 |access-date=November 3, 2015 |url-status=dead}}

In 1979, George Maloof, a businessperson from Albuquerque, New Mexico, bought the Rockets for $9 million. He died the following year, and while the Maloof family expressed interest in selling the team, George's 24-year-old son Gavin took over the Rockets. A buyer was eventually found in 1982 as businessman Charlie Thomas and Sidney Shlenker purchased the franchise for $11 million; the Maloofs would later own the Sacramento Kings from 1998 to 2013. The Maloof period of ownership marked the first dominant period of the Rockets,{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2004/02/15/magazine/15MALOOF.html|title=The Flying Maloof Brothers|author=Lindgren, Hugo|work=The New York Times|date=February 15, 2004|access-date=June 2, 2015}}{{cite web|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2199&dat=19820616&id=Do0yAAAAIBAJ&sjid=-ucFAAAAIBAJ&pg=5815,2583294|title=Lawrence Journal-World - Google News Archive Search|website=news.google.com}} highlighted by the team's first Western Conference Championship and NBA Finals appearance in 1981, their first year after being moved from the Eastern Conference. Prior to the 1980–81 season, the arrival of the Dallas Mavericks led to an NBA realignment that sent the Rockets back to the Western Conference.{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1980/09/26/nba-realignment-hurts-bullets/52b1a110-958b-4657-9157-194620a127fd/ |title=NBA Realignment Hurts Bullets|first=David|last=DuPree|date=September 26, 1980 |newspaper=Washington Post |access-date=May 30, 2008}} Houston qualified for the playoffs only in the final game of the season with a 40–42 record.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/leagues/NBA_1981.html |title=1980–81 NBA Season Summary |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 18, 2009}} The postseason had the Rockets beat the Lakers, in-state rivals San Antonio Spurs, and the equally underdog Kansas City Kings to become only the second team in NBA history (after the 1959 Minneapolis Lakers) to have advanced to the Finals after achieving a losing record in the regular season.{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?page=greatestupsets/070406 |title=Is Warriors over Mavs greatest upset ever? |date=May 4, 2007 |work=ESPN |access-date=May 30, 2008}} In the NBA Finals facing Larry Bird's Boston Celtics, the Rockets blew a late lead in Game 1 and won Game 2 at the Boston Garden. However, afterwards the team failed to capitalize on the early success against the favored Celtics, and eventually lost in six games.{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/history/finals/19801981.html |title=Celtics Return to Glory |work=NBA.com |access-date=May 30, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222181104/http://www.nba.com/history/finals/19801981.html |archive-date=February 22, 2012 |url-status=dead }}

While new owner Charlie Thomas expressed interest in renewing with Moses Malone,{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1982/06/16/sports/nuggets-rockets-are-sold.html|title=Nuggets, Rockets Are Sold|work=The New York Times|date=June 16, 1982|access-date=June 2, 2015}} who had been again chosen as MVP in 1981–82, the Rockets traded him to the Philadelphia 76ers for Caldwell Jones, as a declining regional economy made the Rockets unable to pay Malone's salary. When the Rockets finished a league worst 14–68,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/leagues/NBA_1983.html |title=1982–83 NBA Season Summary |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 18, 2009}} Celtics coach Bill Fitch was hired to replace outgoing Del Harris,{{cite magazine|title=It's Just A Matter Of Time|last=Cotton |first=Anthony |date=October 31, 1983 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}} and the team won the first pick of the 1983 NBA draft, used to select Ralph Sampson from the University of Virginia.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/draft/NBA_1983.html |title=1983 NBA Draft |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 18, 2009}} Sampson had good numbers and was awarded the NBA Rookie of the Year award,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/s/sampsra01.html |title=Ralph Sampson Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 18, 2009}} but the Rockets still finished last overall, again getting the top pick at the upcoming 1984 NBA draft, used to select Hakeem Olajuwon from the University of Houston.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/draft/NBA_1984.html |title=1984 NBA Draft |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 18, 2009}}

File:Hakeemsigningautocropped.jpg

In his first season, Olajuwon finished second to Michael Jordan in NBA Rookie of the Year balloting,{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/history/players/olajuwon_bio.html|title=NBA.com: Hakeem Olajuwon Player Info |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 18, 2009}} and the Rockets record improved by 19 games, good enough for a return to the playoffs as the third best team in the West, where they were upset by the sixth-seeded Utah Jazz.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1985.html |title=1984–85 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 18, 2009}} The duo of Olajuwon and Sampson earned much praise, and was nicknamed "Twin Towers".{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229020548/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 29, 2007 |title=Rockets History – 1983–85: How Do You Stop Two 7-Footers? |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 18, 2009 |url-status=dead}} In the following season, Houston won the Midwest Division title with a 51–31 record. The subsequent playoffs had the Rockets sweeping the Sacramento Kings, having a hard-fought six-game series with Alex English's Denver Nuggets, and then facing defending champion Lakers, losing the first game but eventually managing to win the series – the only Western Playoffs defeat of the Showtime Lakers – to get to the franchise's second Finals appearance.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/lookingback_86finals.html|title=1986: Tough to the Finish|first=Dave|last=Winder|publisher=Houston Rockets official website|access-date=June 3, 2015}} The NBA Finals once again matched the Rockets up against the Celtics, a contrast to Houston's young front challenging the playoff-hardened Celtics front court of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale and Robert Parish. The Celtics won the first two games in Boston, gave the Rockets their only home playoff defeat that season in game 4, and clinched the title as Bird scored a triple-double on Game 6.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/history/finals/19851986.html|title=1986 NBA Finals: Boston 4, Houston 2|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 3, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120629214853/http://www.nba.com/history/finals/19851986.html|archive-date=June 29, 2012|url-status=dead}}

File:1987 NBA Western Conference Semifinals - Game 2 - Seattle SuperSonics at Houston Rockets 1987-05-05 (ticket).jpg between the Rockets and the Seattle SuperSonics]]

After the Finals, Boston coach K. C. Jones called the Rockets "the new monsters on the block" feeling they had a bright future. But the team had a poor start to the following season, followed by nearly a decade of underachievement and failure, amidst players getting injured or suspended for cocaine usage, and during the playoffs were defeated in the second round by the Seattle SuperSonics in six games, with the final game being a double-overtime classic that saw Olajuwon notching 49 points, 25 rebounds and 6 blocks in defeat. Early in the 1987–88 season, Sampson, who had signed a new contract, was traded to the Golden State Warriors, bringing the Twin Towers era to an end just 18 months after their Finals appearance.{{cite web|url=http://grantland.com/features/an-oral-history-hakeem-olajuwon-ralph-sampson-1980s-houston-rockets/|title=The Greatest Team That Never Was|publisher=Grantland|author=Abrams, Jonathan|date=November 8, 2012|access-date=June 30, 2015}} Sampson's once-promising career was shortened due to chronic knee injuries, which forced his retirement in 1991. Jones' prophecy of a Rockets dynasty never materialized until the early 1990s.Howerton, Darryl. [http://www.nba.com/hoop/kingdom__kevin_2012_06_14.html "Budding Dynasty"], NBA.com, June 14, 2012.

In the next five seasons, the Rockets either failed to qualify for the playoffs or were eliminated in the first round.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/NBA_1988.html |title=1988 NBA Playoff Summary |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 19, 2009}}{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/NBA_1989.html |title=1989 NBA Playoff Summary |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 19, 2009}}{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/NBA_1990.html |title=1990 NBA Playoff Summary |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 19, 2009}} The first elimination in 1988 led to Fitch's dismissal, with Don Chaney replacing him as head coach.{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/coachfile/don_chaney/ |title=Don Chaney Coach Info |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 19, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181013212239/http://www.nba.com/coachfile/don_chaney/ |archive-date=October 13, 2018 |url-status=dead }} Chaney, like Olajuwon, also played for the Houston Cougars under Guy Lewis, having played along Elvin Hayes in the late 1960s. Chaney had his best season during 1990–91, where he was named the Coach of the Year after leading the Rockets to a 52–30 record despite Olajuwon's absence due to injury for 25 games.{{cite magazine|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=RrADAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA50|magazine=Jet|title=Houston's Don Chaney NBA Coach of the Year|date=June 17, 1991 |access-date=June 30, 2015}} Despite Olajuwon's usual strong numbers, the underwhelming roster could not be lifted out of mediocrity. However, the attempts to rebuild the team nucleus incorporated players that would later make an impact in the years to come, such as Kenny Smith, Vernon Maxwell, Robert Horry, Mario Elie, Sam Cassell and Otis Thorpe.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229020548/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 29, 2007 |title=Rockets History – 1990–92: Houston Struggles Without Hakeem |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 21, 2009 |url-status=dead}}

File:Rudy T Space and Missile Center Feb 26, 2009.jpg spent all his playing career with the Rockets, and after becoming the team's head coach in 1992 led Houston to two straight championships.]]

Midway through the 1991–92 season, with the Rockets' record only 26–26, Chaney was fired and replaced by his assistant Rudy Tomjanovich, a former Houston player himself.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/02/19/sports/sports-people-basketball-chaney-out-in-houston-rudy-t-takes-over.html|title=Sports People: Basketball – Chaney Out in Houston; Rudy T. Takes Over|work=The New York Times|date=February 19, 1992|access-date=February 19, 2009}} While the Rockets did not make the playoffs,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1992.html |title=1991–92 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 19, 2009}} Tomjanovich's arrival was considered a step forward. In the next year, the Rockets improved their record by 13 games, getting the Midwest Division title, and winning their first playoff series in 6 years by defeating the Los Angeles Clippers, before an elimination by the SuperSonics in a closely contested Game 7 overtime loss.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229020548/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 29, 2007 |title=Rockets History – 1992-93: "Rudy T" Sees Season End In OT |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 21, 2009 |url-status=dead}}

On July 30, 1993, Leslie Alexander purchased the Rockets for $85 million.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1993_1144426 |title=Rockets sale |last=Truex |first=Alan |date=July 31, 1993 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 21, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012170716/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1993_1144426 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} The next season, in Tomjanovich's second full year as head coach, the Rockets began the 1993–94 season by tying an NBA record with a start of 15–0.{{cite news|url=https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/rockets/article/Rockets-15-0-start-to-1993-94-season-rooted-in-5025033.php|title=Rockets' 15-0 start to 1993-94 season rooted in previous failures|last=Feigen|first=Jonathan|work=Houston Chronicle|date=November 30, 2013|access-date=July 29, 2019}}{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1993_1169776 |title=Rockets fans disappointed with loss but liked the ride |last=Asin |first=Stefanie |date=December 4, 1993 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 21, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012170726/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1993_1169776 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} Their first loss of the season came on December 3, 1993, as the Hawks, led by Dominique Wilkins' 27 points, defeated the Rockets, 133–111.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199312030ATL.html|title=Houston Rockets at Atlanta Hawks Box Score, December 3, 1993|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 29, 2019}} The next game, the Rockets stormed a comeback against the Cleveland Cavaliers as they won by a single point, 99–98, on the road. The Rockets now had won their first 16 out of 17 games of the season, tying the 1948–49 Capitols for the best 17-game start in a season, at that time.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199312050CLE.html|title=Houston Rockets at Cleveland Cavaliers Box Score, December 5, 1993|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=July 29, 2019}} On December 9, Olajuwon recorded 28 points, 16 rebounds and 4 blocks as the Rockets cruised past the visiting Heat in overtime to win their 18th game of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199312090HOU.html|title=Miami Heat at Houston Rockets Box Score, December 9, 1993|publisher=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=August 2, 2019}} Led by Olajuwon, who was named the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year,{{cite news |url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1994_1210154|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012170747/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1994_1210154|archive-date=October 12, 2012 |title=Olajuwon caps year of honors |last=Blount |first=Terry |date=June 24, 1994 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 21, 2009}} the Rockets won 58 games, a franchise record at the time.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/ |title=Houston Rockets |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=May 14, 2008}}{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1994.html |title=1993–94 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 21, 2009}} After quickly dispatching the Portland Trail Blazers (who had made the finals just two years prior) in 4 games, they then faced the defending Western Conference champion Phoenix Suns, led by the previous year's MVP Charles Barkley. The series opened up in Houston, which saw the Rockets open up a big lead going into the fourth quarter. In both games, however, the Rockets inexplicably collapsed to allow the Suns a 2–0 lead going back to Phoenix. Following recent heart-breaking playoff losses by the Houston Oilers, it appeared as though the Rockets were doomed. Local newspapers labeled Houston as "Choke City", which the Rockets took to heart and ultimately came back to win the series in seven games. As "Choke City" became "Clutch City", the name permanently became a part of Houston folklore. The Rockets then soon defeated John Stockton and Karl Malone's Utah Jazz in five in the Conference Finals to advance to their third finals.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229020548/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 29, 2007 |title=Rockets History – 1993–94: Rockets Shoot To NBA Title |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 21, 2009 |url-status=dead}} The New York Knicks opened a 3–2 advantage, but the Rockets won the last two games on their home court and claimed their first championship in franchise history. Olajuwon was awarded the Finals MVP, after averaging 27 points, nine rebounds and four blocked shots a game.

The Rockets initially struggled in the first half of the 1994–95 season,{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229020548/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 29, 2007 |title=Rockets History – 1994–95: "Clutch City" – Rockets Repeat |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 21, 2009 |url-status=dead}} which they fixed by sending Otis Thorpe to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Olajuwon's former college teammate Clyde Drexler.{{cite web|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1256819 |title=Reunion with fraternity mate a thrill for Olajuwon |last=Sefko |first=Eddie |date=February 15, 1995 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 21, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012170753/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1256819 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} With only 47 wins, the Rockets entered the playoffs as the sixth seed in the Western Conference. Still, a strong playoff run that earned Houston the nickname "Clutch City" had the Rockets defeating the West's top three seeds – the Jazz, Suns and Spurs – to reach back-to-back finals, this time against the Orlando Magic, led by Shaquille O'Neal and Penny Hardaway. When Houston swept the Finals' series in four games,{{cite news|url=http://www.houstonpress.com/news/clutch-city-an-oral-history-of-the-houston-rockets-miracle-playoff-run-7373022|title=Clutch City: An Oral History of the Houston Rockets Miracle Playoff Run|last=Pendergast|first=Sean|date=April 21, 2015|work=Houston Press|access-date=February 21, 2016}} they became the first team in NBA history to win the championship as a sixth seed, and the first to beat four 50-win teams in a single postseason en route to the championship.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1281360 |title=Rockets overcome countless obstacles en route to repeat |last=Stickney|first=W.H. Jr. |date=June 18, 1995 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 21, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012170840/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1281360 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} Olajuwon was again the Finals MVP, only the second player after Michael Jordan to win the award two years in a row.{{cite news |url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1281348|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629170554/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1281348|archive-date=June 29, 2011 |title=Rockets' remarkable run is a story worth repeating |last=Sefko |first=Eddie |date=June 18, 1995 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 21, 2009}} It was on the floor of The Summit after they captured their second title that head coach Rudy Tomjanovich proclaimed, "Don't ever underestimate the heart of a champion!"{{cite news |last=Short|first=Mike|date=December 19, 2019|title=Don't ever underestimate the heart of a champion'|url=https://www.morningread.com/feature/2019-12-19/dont-ever-underestimate-the-heart-of-a-champion|work=Morning Read|location= |access-date=}}

During the off-season, the Rockets went for a change of visual identity, making navy blue and silver the new primary colors while adopting a new cartoon-inspired logo and pinstriped jerseys.{{cite news|title=Out with the old, In with the new|author=Barron, David|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=June 29, 1995}} The Rockets won 48 games in the 1995–96 season,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1996.html |title=1995–96 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 22, 2009}} in which Olajuwon became the NBA's all-time leader in blocked shots.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#21 |title=Rockets History – 1995–96: Bid For Three Swept Away |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229020548/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 29, 2007 |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 22, 2009 |url-status=dead}} The playoffs had the Rockets beating the Lakers before a sweep by the SuperSonics.

Before the start of the succeeding season, the Rockets sent four players to Phoenix in exchange for Charles Barkley.{{cite news |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171057/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1360369|archive-date=October 12, 2012|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1360369 |title=Rockets finally get Barkley |last=Sefko |first=Eddie |date=August 19, 1996 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 22, 2009}} The resulting "Big Three" of Olajuwon, Drexler, and Barkley had a strong debut season with a 57–25 record,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1997.html |title=1996–97 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 22, 2009}} going all the way to the Western Conference finals before losing to the Utah Jazz 4–2 on a dramatic last-second shot by John Stockton.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229020548/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 29, 2007 |title=Rockets History – 1996–97: Barkley Rockets Fly High |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 22, 2009 |url-status=dead}} The following season was marked by injuries, and Houston finished 41–41 and the 8th seed, leading to another elimination by the top-seeded Jazz.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html#23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229020548/http://www.nba.com/rockets/history/history.html |archive-date=December 29, 2007 |title=Rockets History – 1997–98: High on Heart |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 22, 2009 |url-status=dead}}

Drexler retired after the season,{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1998_3041724 |title=Drexler plans to glide to UH as head coach |last=Wizig |first=Jerry |author2=Murphy, Michael |author3=Solomon, Jerome |date=March 18, 1998 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 22, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171149/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1998_3041724 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} and the Rockets traded to bring in Scottie Pippen to take his place.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3111941 |title=Rockets work deal for Pippen |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |author2=Murphy, Michael |date=January 19, 1999 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 22, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171154/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3111941 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} In the lockout-shortened 1998–99 season, the Rockets lost to the Lakers in the first round of the playoffs.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/1999.html |title=1998–99 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 22, 2009}} After the 1999 draft, the Rockets traded for the second overall pick Steve Francis from the Vancouver Grizzlies, in exchange for four players and a first-round draft pick.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3160938 |title=Rockets complete Francis deal |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=August 28, 1999 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 22, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171208/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3160938 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} However, after Houston traded a discontented Pippen to Portland,{{cite news |url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3168650|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171213/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3168650|archive-date=October 12, 2012 |title=Rockets unload Pippen to Blazers |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |author2=Murphy, Michael |date=October 2, 1999 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 22, 2009}} and Barkley suffered a career-ending injury,{{cite news |url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3182568 |title=Torn tendon ends Sir Charles' career|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629170658/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3182568|archive-date=June 29, 2011 |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=December 9, 1999 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 22, 2009}} the rebuilt Rockets went 34–48 and missed the playoffs,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/2000.html |title=1999–00 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 22, 2009}} for only the second time in 15 years. Francis was named Co-Rookie of the Year.

In the 2000–01 season, the Rockets worked their way to a 45–37 record. However, in a competitive Western Conference where seven teams won 50 games, this left the Rockets two games out of the playoffs.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/2001.html |title=2000–01 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 23, 2009}} In the following off-season, a 38-year-old Olajuwon requested a trade, and, despite stating their desire to keep him, the Rockets reached a sign-and-trade agreement, sending him to the Toronto Raptors.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3324010 |title=Rockets collect themselves after hard blow |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=August 3, 2001 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 23, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171224/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3324010 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} The ensuing 2001–02 season—the first without Hakeem in two decades—was unremarkable, and the Rockets finished with only 28 wins led by first time All-Star Francis.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/2002.html |title=2001–02 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 23, 2009}}

File:Yao Ming free throw.jpg during his rookie season with the Rockets]]

After Houston was awarded the first overall pick in the 2002 NBA draft, they selected Yao Ming, a {{convert|7|ft|6|inch|m}} Chinese center.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2002_3558639 |title=Yao the Man |last=Blinebury |first=Fran |date=June 27, 2002 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 23, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171235/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2002_3558639 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} The Rockets missed the 2003 playoffs by one game, improving their record by 15 victories led by All-Star starters Steve Francis and Rookie Yao Ming.{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/2003.html |title=2002–03 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 23, 2009}}{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/leagues/NBA_2003.html |title=2002–03 NBA Season Summary |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 23, 2009}}

The 2003–04 season marked the Rockets' arrival to a new arena, Toyota Center,{{cite news |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |title=New arena buoys spirits |url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3698392 |work=Houston Chronicle |date=October 10, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171243/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3698392 |archive-date=October 12, 2012 |access-date=February 23, 2009|url-status=dead}} a redesign of their uniforms and logo,{{cite web |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |title=Red's in fashion again |url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3692266 |work=Houston Chronicle |date=September 21, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629170801/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3692266 |archive-date=June 29, 2011 |access-date=July 28, 2015 |url-status=dead}} and their first season without Rudy Tomjanovich, who resigned as head coach after being diagnosed with bladder cancer.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3657129 |title=End of an era |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=May 24, 2003 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 23, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171357/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3657129 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} Led by former Knicks coach Jeff Van Gundy,{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/06/10/sports/pro-basketball-van-gundy-accepts-job-as-coach-of-the-rockets.html |title=Pro Basketball – Van Gundy Accepts Job As Coach of the Rockets|last=Broussard|first=Chris |date=June 10, 2003 |work=The New York Times |access-date=February 23, 2009}} the Rockets finished the regular season with a record of 45–37,{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/2004.html |title=2003–04 Houston Rockets Roster and Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=February 23, 2009}} earning their first playoff berth since 1999, again losing to the Lakers in the first round.

File:Yao Ming with the Chinese flag 2008 Summer Olympics - Opening Ceremony.jpg carrying his home country's Five-star Red Flag at the 2008 Summer Olympics]]

File:TracyMcGrady.jpg in 2004.]]

In the off-season, Houston saw major changes in the roster as the Rockets acquired Tracy McGrady in a seven-player deal with the Orlando Magic Including three time Rockets All-Star Steve Francis.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2004_3777107 |title=T-Mac comes to H-Town |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=June 30, 2004 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 23, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171454/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2004_3777107 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} The scoring champion McGrady and the strong rebounder Yao formed a well-regarded pair that helped the Rockets win 22 consecutive games in the 2007–08 season, which was at the time the 3rd longest winning streak in NBA history. Still, the duo was plagued with injuries – of the 463 regular season games for which they were teammates, Yao missed 146 and McGrady 160 – and did not win any playoff series, despite gathering leads over the Dallas Mavericks in 2005 and the Jazz in 2007.{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/2010/news/features/fran_blinebury/12/08/tracy-mcgrady-houston-return/ |title=Failures, injuries mark T-Mac's memories of paring with Yao|date=December 8, 2010|work=NBA.com|author=Blinebury, Fran |access-date=February 23, 2016}} Despite this, Yao was selected to carry his home country's Five-star Red Flag at the Summer Olympics opening ceremony held at home in 2008. After the 2007 elimination, Van Gundy was fired,{{cite news |url=http://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/Van-Gundy-dismissed-as-Rockets-coach-1837998.php |title=Van Gundy dismissed as Rockets coach |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=May 18, 2007 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 23, 2009}} and the Rockets hired Rick Adelman to replace him.{{cite news |url=http://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/Adelman-reaches-deal-to-coach-Rockets-1629681.php |title=Adelman reaches deal to coach Rockets |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=May 21, 2008 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 23, 2009}}

For the 2008–09 season, the Rockets signed forward Ron Artest. While McGrady wound up playing only half the games before enduring a season-ending microfracture surgery,{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=3914888|title=McGrady says he will have surgery|work=ESPN|date=February 2, 2008|access-date=June 30, 2015}} the Rockets ended the season 53–29, enough for the Western Conference's fifth seed. During the playoffs, the Rockets beat the Portland Trail Blazers four games to two, winning their first playoff round since 1997.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/playoffs/2009/matchup/_/teams/rockets-trailblazers|title=2009 NBA Playoffs - First Round - Rockets vs. Trailblazers|work=ESPN|access-date=February 23, 2009}} During the series, Dikembe Mutombo injured his knee, which forced him to retire after 18 seasons in the NBA.{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2008_4561020 |title=Salt Lake heartache |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=May 3, 2008 |work=Houston Chronicle |access-date=February 23, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012171517/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2008_4561020 |archive-date=October 12, 2012}} However, the second round against the Lakers had the Rockets losing 4–3 and Yao Ming suffering yet another season-ending injury, this time a hairline fracture in his left foot.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/lakers/playoffs2009_b.html|title=NBA Playoffs 2009- Western Conference - Los Angeles vs Houston|work=NBA.com|access-date=February 23, 2015}}

During the 2009–10 season, the Rockets saw the departures of Artest in the off-season and McGrady, Joey Dorsey and Carl Landry during mid-season trades. Despite great play by Kevin Martin, who arrived from the Kings, and Aaron Brooks, who would eventually be chosen as the Most Improved Player of the season, the Rockets could not make it to the playoffs, finishing 42–40, 3rd in the Southwest Division. At that time, the Rockets set an NBA record for best record by a team with no All-Stars.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/blog/truehoop/post/_/id/14795/houston-rockets-make-history-while-missing-the-playoffs|title=Houston Rockets make history while missing the playoffs|date=April 8, 2010|work=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://blog.chron.com/ultimaterockets/2010/04/thats-a-wrap-but-whats-next-what-should-be/|title=That's a wrap. But what's next? What should be?|work=Ultimate Rockets|date=April 15, 2010|access-date=June 30, 2015}} The Rockets would also finish ninth in the Western Conference for the following two seasons,{{cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/ball-dont-lies-2011-12-season-previews-houston-rockets?urn=nba,wp11994|title=Ball Don't Lie's 2011-12 Season Previews: Houston Rockets|date=December 19, 2011|first=Kelly |last=Dwyer|work=Yahoo! Sports|access-date=June 30, 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://legacy.khou.com/story/sports/2014/07/19/11704416/|title=Rockets fall to Heat, eliminated from playoff contention|date=April 23, 2012|work=KHOU|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=April 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419113809/http://legacy.khou.com/story/sports/2014/07/19/11704416/|url-status=dead}} with Yao Ming getting a season-ending injury seven games into the 2010–11 season and deciding to retire during the 2011 off-season.{{cite news |title=Chinese great Yao Ming retires from NBA|date=July 20, 2011 |agency=Associated Press |publisher=CBC |url=http://www.cbc.ca/sports/basketball/chinese-great-yao-ming-retires-from-nba-1.1029363| access-date=July 20, 2011}} Said off-season, which saw the NBA going through a lockout, had Adelman dismissed,{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=6384752|title=Rick Adelman won't return as Houston Rockets' head coach|date=April 18, 2011|work=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015}} and general manager Daryl Morey deciding to start a revamp of the Rockets based on advanced statistical analytics (similar to sabermetrics in baseball) in player acquisitions and style of play. Kevin McHale was named head coach, and the roster saw significant changes.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/9024190/moreyball-how-houston-rockets-became-nba-most-exciting-team|author=Mason, Beckley|date=April 5, 2013|title=The Rockets are ready for liftoff|work=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015}}

After the roster moves made by Morey during the 2012 NBA off-season, only four players were left from the 2011–12 Rockets roster: Chandler Parsons, Greg Smith, Marcus Morris, and Patrick Patterson,{{cite web|url=http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2012-11-12/sports/sfl-miami-heat-houston-rockets-pregame-s111212_1_pregame-note-dexter-pittman-mario-chalmers|title=Miami Heat, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh commentary from Ira Winderman|author=Winderman, Ira|work=South Florida Sun-Sentinel|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=May 27, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150527014213/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2012-11-12/sports/sfl-miami-heat-houston-rockets-pregame-s111212_1_pregame-note-dexter-pittman-mario-chalmers|url-status=dead}} with the latter two leaving through trades during the 2012–13 season. The most important acquisition was reigning Sixth Man of the Year James Harden, who Morey called a "foundational" player expected to be Houston's featured player after a supporting role in the Oklahoma City Thunder.{{cite news|title=GM: James Harden is 'foundational'|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/8570173/houston-rockets-gm-calls-james-harden-foundational-player|newspaper=ESPN|date=October 29, 2012}} Harden caused an immediate impact as part of the starting lineup for the Rockets, with 37 points, 12 assists, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, and a block in the season opener against the Detroit Pistons,{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=400277726|title=Houston Rockets vs. Detroit Pistons - Box Score - October 31, 2012 - ESPN|work=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015}} and an average of 25.9 points a game through the season. Combining Harden's performance and McHale's up-tempo offense, the Rockets became one of the highest-scoring offenses in the NBA, leading the league in scoring for the majority of the season.{{cite web|url=http://www.caller.com/sports/2012-13-houston-rockets-season-review-one-giant-step-ep-357941937.html|date=April 12, 2013|title=2012–13 Houston Rockets season review: One giant step|author=Mark Travis|work=CCCT|access-date=June 30, 2015}} In the postseason, the Rockets fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round, losing the series 4–2.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/playoffs/2013/westseries1/|title=Thunder vs. Rockets - Western Conference First Round - 2013 NBA Playoffs|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015}}

File:James Harden Rockets cropped.jpg arrived in Houston in 2012, and became a franchise player for the Rockets.]]

Eager to add another franchise player to their team, the Rockets heavily pursued and then acquired free agent center Dwight Howard in the 2013 off-season. He officially signed with the Rockets on July 13, 2013.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/news/howard-selects-houston-free-agency|title=Howard Selects Houston in Free Agency|work=Houston Rockets|access-date=June 30, 2015}} Led by the new inside-out combination of Howard and James Harden, and with a strong supporting cast including Chandler Parsons, Jeremy Lin, and Ömer Aşık, the Rockets were expected to jump into title contention in the upcoming season.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/preview2013/story/_/page/5-on-5-1314hou/2013-14-outlook-houston-rockets|title=2013–14 outlook - Houston Rockets|work=ESPN|date=October 25, 2014|access-date=June 30, 2015}} However, that postseason, the Rockets were defeated in the first round by the Portland Trail Blazers, losing the series 4–2.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/playoffs/2014/westseries4/|title=Rockets vs. Trail Blazers - Western Conference First Round - 2014 NBA Playoffs|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015}} Still, in the 2014–15 season, without Lin and Parsons but reinforced by Trevor Ariza, the Rockets started the season well, winning the first four games of the season for the first time since 1996–97,{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20141103/HOUPHI/gameinfo.html|title=Rockets at 76ers|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015}} and winning each of their first six games by 10 points or more, the first team to accomplish this feat since the 1985–86 Denver Nuggets.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20141106/SASHOU/gameinfo.html|title=Spurs at Rockets|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150128235420/http://www.nba.com/games/20141106/SASHOU/gameinfo.html|archive-date=January 28, 2015|url-status=dead}} Though the Rockets had many key players miss time throughout the entire season, James Harden took it upon himself to keep the Rockets near the top of the conference, turning him into an MVP front-runner. He became the first Rocket to score 50 points in a game since Hakeem Olajuwon,{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20150319/DENHOU/gameinfo.html?ls=slt|title=Nuggets at Rockets|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015}} as well as the only player in franchise history to record multiple 50 point games in a season.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20150401/SACHOU/gameinfo.html|title=Kings at Rockets|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150630070942/http://www.nba.com/games/20150401/SACHOU/gameinfo.html|archive-date=June 30, 2015|url-status=dead}} On April 15, 2015, the Rockets beat the Jazz to claim their first-ever Southwest Division title and first Division crown since 1994, and by completing 56 wins finished with the third-best regular season record in franchise history.{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/bkn-jazz-rockets-writethru-idUSMTZEB4GVS8FBY20150416|title=Rockets clinch Southwest Division with win over Jazz|work=Reuters|date=April 16, 2015|access-date=June 30, 2015}} During the playoffs, the Rockets beat the Mavericks 4–1 in the first round, and overcame a 3–1 deficit against the Los Angeles Clippers to win the Western semifinals and return to the Conference Finals for the first time in 18 years.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/2015/05/17/rockets-back-in-conference-finals-first-1st-time-since-97/27503719/|title=Rockets back in conference finals first 1st time since '97|agency=AP|date=May 17, 2015|work=USA Today|access-date=June 30, 2015}} In the Conference Finals, the Rockets were defeated by the Golden State Warriors 4–1.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/nba/2015/05/28/warriors-beat-rockets-game-5-nba-finals-stephen-curry-cavaliers|title=Warriors return to NBA Finals with win over Rockets in Game 5|author=Taylor, Phil|magazine=Sports Illustrated|access-date=June 30, 2015}}

The 2015–16 season saw Kevin McHale fired after a bad start where the team only won 4 of its first 11 games, and assistant J. B. Bickerstaff took over coaching duties.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/14160559/houston-rockets-fire-coach-kevin-mchale|title=Rockets fire coach Kevin McHale|work=ESPN|date=November 18, 2015|access-date=November 20, 2015}} Inconsistent play led to the Rockets struggling to remain in the playoff qualifying zone,{{cite web|url=https://www.sbnation.com/2016/3/28/11313502/2016-nba-scores-rockets-pacers-mavericks-kings-playoffs-east-west-inconsistent|title=NBA scores 2016: The erratic Rockets are playing their way out of the playoffs|publisher=SB Nation|first=Liam|last=Boylan-Pett|date=March 28, 2016|access-date=March 30, 2016}} and surrounded by trade rumors.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/nba/eye-on-basketball/25484360/report-rockets-heat-talk-dwight-howard-hassan-whiteside-swap|title=Report: Rockets, Heat talk Dwight Howard-Hassan Whiteside swap|first=James|last=Herbert |work=CBS Sports|date=February 15, 2016|access-date=March 30, 2016}} Houston only clinched its 2016 playoffs spot by winning its last game, finishing the season 41–41 to earn an eight seed and a match-up against the Warriors.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400829111|title=Rockets clinch playoff berth with 116-81 win over Kings|first=Kristie|last=Rieken|agency=Associated Press|date=April 13, 2016|access-date=April 13, 2016}} Like in the previous year, the Rockets were once again defeated by Golden State in five games.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/playoffs/2016/westseries1/|title=Warriors oust Rockets, storm into West semis|work=NBA.com|access-date=April 28, 2016}}

During the 2016 off-season, Mike D'Antoni was named as the Rockets' new head coach,{{cite news|title=Rockets Name Mike D'Antoni Head Coach|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/news/rockets-name-mike-dantoni-head-coach|publisher=NBA|date=June 1, 2016|access-date=June 1, 2016}} and Dwight Howard opted out of his contract's final year, becoming a free agent.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/16402346/dwight-howard-houston-rockets-declines-player-option-become-free-agent|title=Source: Dwight Howard opts out despite Rockets' efforts to keep him|work=ESPN|date=June 22, 2016|first=Calvin |last=Watkins|access-date=June 22, 2016}} In the following free-agency period, the Rockets looked to embrace the play styles of both coach D'Antoni and Harden through the signings of Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon, two predominately perimeter players and good fits in Houston's up-tempo offense style.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/news/rockets-sign-free-agents-ryan-anderson-and-eric-gordon|title=Rockets Sign Free Agents Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon|work=NBA.com|date=July 8, 2016|access-date=July 12, 2016}} Morey signed Nenê Hilario to succor the roster defense and a backup behind Clint Capela and Ryan Anderson after Dwight Howard and Donatas Motiejūnas left the team during free agency.{{Cite web |last=McIlvoy |first=Randy |date=July 6, 2016 |title=Center Nene says he has signed with Houston Rockets |url=https://www.click2houston.com/sports/2016/07/06/center-nene-says-he-has-signed-with-houston-rockets/ |access-date=July 6, 2016 |website=click2houston.com}}{{Cite web |last=Cantalogo |first=Andre |date=Jul 10, 2016 |title=Analyzing Houston Rockets Signing of Brazilian center Nene |url=https://spacecityscoop.com/2016/07/11/analyzing-houston-rockets-signing-brazilian-center-nene/ |access-date=Jul 10, 2016 |website=spacecityscoop.com}}

When the 2016–17 season started, Harden was off to a great start and was widely considered a top MVP runner along with Kawhi Leonard, alongside former teammate Russell Westbrook.{{cite web |url= http://www.nba.com/article/2016/11/11/mvp-ladder-week-1-2016-17-russell-westbrook-leads-way-begin?collection=writer/archive/sekou-smith |title= Russell Westbrook stands out most as new MVP chase begins |author= Smith, Sekou |work=NBA.com |date= November 11, 2016 |access-date= June 1, 2017}} To gain more firepower from the bench, Morey traded Corey Brewer and the 2017 first-round pick to the Los Angeles Lakers for Lou Williams to enhance the team's offense.{{Cite web |last=NBA.com |date=February 23, 2017 |title=Houston Rockets trade Corey Brewer, 2017 first-round pick to Los Angeles Lakers for Lou Williams |url=https://www.nba.com/news/houston-rockets-trade-corey-brewer-lakers-lou-williams |access-date= |website=NBA.com}} When the season ended, the Rockets were third in both the Western Conference and overall rankings, a major improvement from the season before. D'Antoni was named the NBA Coach of the Year, Eric Gordon the Sixth Man of the Year, and Harden finished second in MVP voting to Russell Westbrook.{{cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/nbaawards/2017/finalists|title=2017 NBA Awards Complete List Of Winners|work=NBA.com|date=June 26, 2017|access-date= June 28, 2017}} In the playoffs, the Rockets faced the sixth seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in a battle of the MVP frontrunners, as the winner was not announced until after the finals.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/article/2017/04/11/first-round-playoff-series-preview-houston-rockets-vs-oklahoma-city-thunder|title=Series preview: Houston Rockets-Oklahoma City Thunder series could entertain mightily|first=Fran|last=Blinebury|work=NBA.com|date=April 13, 2017|access-date=June 28, 2017}} The Rockets won the series 4–1 including Nene Hilario's perfect 12–12 in field goals in Game 4.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400950407|title=Nene's 28 lead Rockets past Thunder for 3-1 series lead|work=ESPN|date=April 23, 2017|access-date=April 24, 2017}} In the following round, Houston opened with a dominating 27 points win over the San Antonio Spurs, lost the following two games and then tied the series again.{{cite web|url=https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/NBA/2017/05/08/2017-NBA-Playoffs-Houston-Rockets-San-Antonio-Spurs-Game-5-preview-update/3591494277473/ |title=2017 NBA Playoffs: Houston Rockets-San Antonio Spurs Game 5 preview, update|publisher=The Sports Xchange |date=May 8, 2017|author=Habel, Steve|access-date=April 24, 2018}} The fifth game went into overtime and had both Manu Ginobili blocking James Harden's game tying three point attempt at the final second,{{cite web|url=https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/NBA/2017/05/10/Manu-Ginobili-blocks-James-Harden-at-buzzer-San-Antonio-Spurs-win-over-Houston-Rockets/1431494425810/|title=Manu Ginobili blocks James Harden at buzzer, San Antonio Spurs win over Houston Rockets|publisher=The Sports Xchange |date=May 10, 2017|author=Habel, Steve|access-date=April 24, 2018}} and Nene injuring himself out of the postseason.{{cite web|last=MacMahon|first=Tim|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/19337494/houston-rockets-center-nene-ruled-rest-playoffs-left-groin-injury|title=Rockets center Nene out for rest of playoffs with groin injury|work=ESPN|date=May 8, 2017|access-date=May 9, 2017}} Without Nene, the Rockets could not guard LaMarcus Aldridge, who scored 34 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in the series-closing match.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400952495|title=Spurs rout James Harden, Rockets 114-75 to win series|work=ESPN|date=May 11, 2017|access-date=May 11, 2017}}

File:Chris Paul (2022 All-Star Weekend) (cropped).jpg

During the 2017 off-season, the Rockets were purchased by Houston restaurant billionaire Tilman Fertitta for $2.2 billion,{{cite news|url=http://www.nba.com/article/2017/10/10/tilman-fertitta-introduced-new-owner-houston-rockets|title=Tilman Fertitta introduced as the new owner of the Houston Rockets|first=Kristie|last=Rieken |website=NBA.com|agency=The Associated Press|date=October 10, 2017|access-date=May 29, 2018}} breaking the record for the price to purchase an American professional sports team.{{cite news|title=Teams like the Rockets rarely come available. That's why they're being sold for $2.2 billion |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/sports/wp/2017/09/05/teams-like-the-rockets-rarely-come-available-thats-why-theyre-being-sold-for-2-2-billion/|date=September 5, 2017}} The team also acquired 8-time All-NBA player and 9-time All-Star Chris Paul in a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers, in exchange for seven players, cash considerations, and a top three protected 2018 first round draft pick.{{cite news|title='Weapons race': Rockets tout CP3-Harden pair|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/19758509/la-clippers-trade-chris-paul-houston-rockets|date=June 28, 2017|work=ESPN|access-date=June 28, 2017}}{{cite web|last1=Rieken|first1=Kristie|title=LA Clippers trade Chris Paul to Houston Rockets|url=http://www.nba.com/article/2017/06/28/chris-paul-trade-houston-rockets-la-clippers-opt|date=June 28, 2017|website=NBA.com|access-date=June 28, 2017}} Even if Paul missed many games due to a knee injury, he was a key addition to the Rockets.{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/sports/wp/2017/12/21/chris-pauls-injury-against-the-lakers-underscores-the-fragile-nature-of-the-magnificent-rockets/|newspaper=The Washington Post|title=Chris Paul's injury against the Lakers underscores the fragile nature of the magnificent Rockets|first=Tim|last=Bontemps|date=December 21, 2017|access-date=May 28, 2018}} The team finished the season with 65 wins, a record both league-leading and the best in franchise history.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/2017-18-season-milestones|title=NBA season of milestones: Notable moments mark 2017-18 campaign|work=NBA.com|date=April 12, 2018|access-date=May 28, 2018}} During the playoffs, Houston beat the Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz in five games before another confrontation with the Golden State Warriors.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/nba/news/nba-playoffs-2018-rockets-vs-warriors-prediction-pick-preview-schedule-conference-finals/x4o55zsrlkjs197quo8vrrcef|title=Rockets vs. Warriors: Preview, predictions as Western Conference powerhouses collide|author=Deveney, Sean|magazine=Sporting News|date=May 14, 2018|access-date=May 28, 2018}} In Game 5 of the Conference Finals, the Rockets took a 3–2 lead in the series, but they saw Paul leave with an injured hamstring. His absence was felt in the two remaining games, where Houston led by halftime in Game 7 only to suffer a comeback by Golden State.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=401032767|title=Warriors reach 4th straight NBA Finals with win over Houston|work=ESPN|date=May 28, 2018|access-date=May 29, 2018}}

The Rockets had one draft pick entering the off-season, and they used it to select De'Anthony Melton, packaging him in a trade with the Phoenix Suns alongside Ryan Anderson to receive Brandon Knight and Marquese Chriss.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/24528593|title=Rockets deal Anderson to Suns for Chriss, Knight|date=August 31, 2018|website=ESPN|access-date=July 6, 2019}} In free agency, they signed James Ennis III, Michael Carter-Williams, and Carmelo Anthony. They started the season with a 1–4 record, and after 13 games where they went 6–7, Houston and Anthony mutually agreed to part ways, who was eventually traded to the Chicago Bulls and subsequently waived.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/article/2019/01/21/houston-rockets-carmelo-anthony-trade-chicago-bulls|title=Reports: Rockets agree to trade Carmelo Anthony to Bulls|website=NBA.com|access-date=July 6, 2019}}{{cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/carmelo-anthony-waived-rockets-2018-11|title=The Rockets are officially parting ways with Carmelo Anthony after just 13 games|last=Davis|first=Scott|website=Business Insider|access-date=July 6, 2019}} After falling to the 14th seed in the Western Conference, James Harden went on a 32-game streak scoring at least 30 points per game—the second-longest in NBA history—with Harden averaging 41.1 points per game in that run. He drove the Rockets through a 21–11 push in that streak; and after beginning the season 11–14, the Rockets finished the season 42–15, winning 20 of their last 25 games and finishing fourth in the Western Conference after losing the final two games of the season, which would have potentially given them the second or third seed.{{cite news|url=https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/rockets/article/2018-19-Rockets-review-James-Harden-13882900.php|title=2018-19 Rockets review: James Harden|date=May 23, 2019|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|access-date=July 6, 2019 |last1=Feigen |first1=Jonathan }}{{cite web|url=https://spacecityscoop.com/2019/04/21/houston-rockets-takeaways-win/|title=Houston Rockets: 3 takeaways from Game 3 win|date=April 21, 2019|website=Space City Scoop|access-date=July 6, 2019}} After what was determined to be poor fits of the acquisitions made in free agency, on top of injuries, Daryl Morey traded the players acquired in the off-season at the trade deadline and replaced them with Austin Rivers, Kenneth Faried, Danuel House, and Iman Shumpert during the season. On April 7, 2019, against the Phoenix Suns, Houston became the first team in NBA history to make 25+ two-pointers and 25+ three-pointers in the same game, outscoring their last four opponents by 117 points, second-best in a four-game span in franchise history (127+ in February 1993). They beat their own record for most three-pointers made by one team in a single game in NBA history two times with 26 and 27.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/25577541|title=Rockets hit NBA-record 26 3s in rout of Wizards|date=December 20, 2018|website=ESPN|access-date=July 6, 2019}}{{cite web|url=https://amp.usatoday.com/amp/3397055002|title=Rockets break their own single-game record for 3s in rout of Suns|website=amp.usatoday.com|access-date=July 6, 2019}} The Rockets clinched a division title and a playoff berth for a seventh straight appearance.{{cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2821866-james-harden-rockets-clinch-7th-straight-nba-playoff-berth-in-win-vs-pelicans|title=James Harden, Rockets Clinch 7th Straight NBA Playoff Berth in Win vs. Pelicans|website=Bleacher Report|access-date=July 6, 2019}} After defeating the Utah Jazz in five games, Houston faced Golden State for the fourth time in five years. The series began with a tight Game 1 decided by four points along with officiating that received scrutiny.{{cite web|url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2019/04/warriors-rockets-game-1-refs-brutal-james-harden-chris-paul|title = Everybody rightfully hated the refs in Rockets-Warriors Game 1|date = April 28, 2019}} With both teams winning their home games, putting the series at 2–2, Golden State won the next two games to eliminate the Rockets for the second year in a row along with the fourth time in five years.

During the 2019 off-season, Morey sought out to once again retool the roster. As part of a trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Rockets traded Chris Paul, two future first round picks, and two future first round pick swaps in exchange for James Harden's former Thunder teammate Russell Westbrook.{{cite news|url=https://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/Rockets-trade-Chris-Paul-acquire-Russell-Westbrook-14089859.php|title=Rockets trade Chris Paul to acquire Russell Westbrook|newspaper=Chron|access-date=July 11, 2019 |last1=Feigen |first1=Jonathan }} Nearing the trade deadline of the 2019–20 season, the Rockets were involved in a blockbuster, four-team trade which was centered around bringing Robert Covington back to the Rockets and sending centers Clint Capela and Nenê to the Atlanta Hawks.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/28638121/sources-robert-covington-clint-capela-part-4-team-12-player-deal|title=Sources: Capela dealt in 4-team, 12-player trade|date=February 5, 2020|website=ESPN|language=en|access-date=March 1, 2020}} The trade cemented the Rockets' total commitment to a small ball, 5-out offense, a style of play which was considered revolutionary for its time.{{cite web|url=https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/the-rockets-may-be-short-but-theyre-not-exactly-small/|title=The Rockets May Be Short, But They're Not Exactly Small|last=Dubin|first=Jared|date=March 4, 2020|website=FiveThirtyEight|language=en-US|access-date=March 4, 2020}} In their first twelve games since going 6'7" or shorter in their lineups, the Rockets went 10–2, being in the top percentile in win percentage, offensive rating, and point differential.{{cite web|url=https://www.talkbasket.net/72824-interesting-stat-rockets-record-since-switching-to-small-ball|title=Interesting stat: Rockets record since switching to small-ball|website=talkbasket.net|date=March 2020|access-date=June 17, 2020}} In February, the month they made the trade, the double-MVP backcourt of Harden and Westbrook became the first teammates in NBA history to average 30+ points and 5+ assists per game.{{cite web|url=https://rocketswire.usatoday.com/2020/03/01/russell-westbrook-james-harden-finish-historic-month-in-style/|title=Russell Westbrook, James Harden finish historic month in style|website=USA Today|date=March 2020|access-date=June 17, 2020}} By the end of the season, Harden and Westbrook scored a combined 61.5 points per game, breaking Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal's previous record for the highest-scoring basketball duo since the ABA-NBA merger.{{Cite news|last=Songco|first=Paolo|date=August 7, 2020|title=Rockets' James Harden, Russell Westbrook become highest-scoring duo since ABA-NBA merge|work=ClutchPoints|url=https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-news-james-harden-russell-westbrook-becomes-highest-scoring-duo-since-aba-nba-merge/|access-date=October 1, 2020}}

Following the suspension of the 2019–20 NBA season, the Rockets were one of the 22 teams invited to the NBA Bubble to participate in the final eight games of the regular season.{{cite web |title=NBA Board of Governors approves competitive format to restart 2019-20 season with 22 teams returning to play |url=https://www.nba.com/article/2020/06/04/board-of-governors-approves-nba-return-official-release |website=NBA.com |access-date=September 14, 2020 |date=June 4, 2020}}

After the Rockets were eliminated in the playoffs by the Los Angeles Lakers, D'Antoni and Morey informed the Rockets that they would both not return to the team for the 2020–21 season.{{cite web |last1=Wojnarowski |first1=Adrian |title=Mike D'Antoni tells Houston Rockets he won't return as coach |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29877395/sources-mike-dantoni-telling-houston-rockets-return-coach |website=ESPN |access-date=September 14, 2020 |date=September 13, 2020}}{{cite web |date=October 15, 2020 |title=Morey: 'Right time' to step down as Rockets GM |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30120824/daryl-morey-stepping-houston-rockets-gm-sources-say |access-date=July 26, 2022 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} Rafael Stone was hired as the general manager after serving in general counsel and as an assistant general manager.{{cite news |last=Feigen |first=Jonathan |date=October 15, 2020 |title=Rockets' new GM Rafael Stone: a passion for basketball and a mind for deals |url=https://www.houstonchronicle.com/texas-sports-nation/rockets/article/Rockets-new-GM-Rafael-Stone-a-passion-for-15651539.php |access-date=July 26, 2022 |website=Houston Chronicle |language=en-US}} Stephen Silas was hired as the Rockets' head coach. Stone traded Robert Covington to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for former Houston veteran Trevor Ariza, a first-round pick, and the rights to Isaiah Stewart, who was the 16th overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft.{{Cite web|title=Rafael Stone NBA & ABA Basketball Executive Record|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/executives/stonera99x.html|access-date=2022-01-12|website=Basketball-Reference.com|language=en}} Stone then traded Ariza, the rights to Stewart, a second round pick, and cash considerations to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Christian Wood, a first-round pick, and a second round pick. A few days later, the Rockets signed former All-Star DeMarcus Cousins in a one-year deal.{{Cite web |last=DuBose |first=Ben |date=November 23, 2020 |title=Veteran center DeMarcus Cousins to sign one-year deal with Rockets |url=https://rocketswire.usatoday.com/2020/11/23/veteran-center-demarcus-cousins-to-sign-one-year-deal-with-rockets/}} A week later, Westbrook was traded to the Washington Wizards in December 2020 in an exchange for Cousins former Kentucky teammate John Wall and a lottery-protected first-round pick.{{cite web |date=December 2, 2020 |title=Wizards acquire Russell Westbrook |url=https://www.nba.com/wizards/wizards-acquire-russell-westbrook |access-date=December 3, 2020 |website=NBA.com}}{{cite web |date=December 2, 2020 |title=Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards agree to Russell Westbrook-John Wall trade |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30439266/sources-houston-rockets-washington-wizards-agree-russell-westbrook-john-wall-deal |access-date=December 3, 2020 |website=ESPN}}

In January 2021, Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in a four-team trade. In return, the Rockets received Victor Oladipo from the Indiana Pacers, Rodions Kurucs from the Brooklyn Nets, Dante Exum from the Cleveland Cavaliers, four 1st-round picks, and four 1st-round picks swap.{{cite web |title=Rockets Announce Revised Four-Team Trade |url=https://www.nba.com/rockets/news/rockets-announce-revised-four-team-trade |website=NBA.com |access-date=January 17, 2021 |date=January 16, 2021}}{{refn|group=upper-alpha|name="JamesHardenJan21"|January 16, 2021: Brooklyn Nets to Houston Rockets (four-team trade with Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers)

• Houston acquired Victor Oladipo, Dante Exum, Rodions Kurucs, a 2022 first-round draft selection, 2024 first-round draft selection, 2026 first-round draft selection, rights to swap first-round draft selections in 2021, 2023, 2025, and 2027, and a 2022 first-round draft selection (from Milwaukee)
• Brooklyn acquired James Harden and a 2024 second-round draft selection
• Cleveland acquired Jarrett Allen and Taurean Prince
• Indiana acquired Caris LeVert and 2 future second-round draft selections}} The Rockets began the season with an 11–10 start but ended up with a 17–55 record,{{Efn|Due to COVID-19, the league shortened the season to 72 games rather than its usual 82-game season.|group=note|name=}} the worst in the league despite with many injuries and trades.

File:Alperen Şengün Houston Rockets vs Cleveland Cavaliers 2021-12-15 (cropped).jpg was drafted 16th overall in 2021.]]

In the 2021 NBA draft, the team selected Jalen Green with the second overall pick out of the NBA G League Ignite, pairing him alongside Kevin Porter Jr., who was acquired via trade the season prior for a top-55 protected second-round pick. Because of their additions in the draft, including first round selections of Alperen Şengün and Josh Christopher, the team began focusing on developing and rebuilding around their young core, which resulted in John Wall being benched for the entire season.{{cite web |title=John Wall to continue sitting out due to disagreement with Rockets on potential role, per report |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/john-wall-to-continue-sitting-out-due-to-disagreement-with-rockets-on-potential-role-per-report/ |access-date=July 24, 2022 |website=CBSSports.com |date=November 28, 2021}} In the 2021–22 season, the Rockets were once again at the bottom of the league, with a 20–62 record. Jalen Green was selected to the NBA All-Rookie First Team with averages of 17.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.{{cite web|url=https://rocketswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/18/rockets-guard-jalen-green-earns-nba-all-rookie-first-team-honors/ |title=Rockets guard Jalen Green earns NBA All-Rookie First Team honors |publisher=Rocketswire.usatoday.com |date= May 19, 2022 |accessdate=August 1, 2022}}

In the 2022 NBA draft, the Rockets selected Jabari Smith Jr. with third overall pick and Tari Eason with the 17th overall picks. The Rockets made some adjustments by sending forward Christian Wood to the Dallas Mavericks in an exchange for Boban Marjanović, Sterling Brown, Trey Burke and Marquese Chriss and traded all of them to the Oklahoma City Thunder during the off-season to develop their young core while keeping Marjanović. The Rockets bought out John Wall's contract, who had been demanding a trade for a while and did not participate in the Rockets' 2021–22 season.{{Cite web |title=John Wall officially receives contract buyout from Rockets |url=https://www.nba.com/news/john-wall-agrees-to-contract-buyout-with-rockets |date=June 29, 2022 |website=NBA.com |access-date=June 29, 2022}}

On February 9, 2023, the Rockets traded long-time veteran Eric Gordon to the Clippers in a three-team trade in exchange of Danny Green and John Wall and were later waived. The Rockets ended the 2022–23 regular season with a 22–60 record, tying with the San Antonio Spurs for last in the Western Conference. The Rockets fired head coach Stephen Silas after they chose not to pick up his fourth year option and replaced him with former Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka.

One-time All-Star Fred VanVleet joined the Rockets via free agency signing a three-year $130 million contract. The next day, former Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks joined the team signing a four-year, $86 million contract after a first-round exit against the Los Angeles Lakers.{{Cite web |last=Brener |first=Jeremy |title=Rockets Signing Dillon Brooks: 'Worst Offseason Move'? |url=https://www.si.com/nba/rockets/news/houston-rockets-signing-dillon-brooks-worst-offseason-move-free-agency |date=July 26, 2023}} The Rockets selected Amen Thompson with the fourth pick and Cam Whitmore with the 20th pick in the 2023 NBA draft. Alperen Şengün improved this season, averaging 21.1 points per game, 9.3 rebounds per game, and 5 assists per game. He was announced out for the season on March 21 with an ankle injury.

List of the last five seasons completed by the Rockets. For the full season-by-season history, see List of Houston Rockets seasons.

Note: GP = Games played, W = Wins, L = Losses, W–L% = Winning percentage

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| caption1 = The Summit (later Compaq Center) hosted the Rockets from 1975 to 2003, and was also the site where the Rockets won both of their NBA titles in 1994 and 1995. Today the site is the worship center for Lakewood Church.

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During the four years the Rockets were in San Diego, they played their games in the San Diego Sports Arena, which had a seating capacity of 14,400.{{cite news |url=http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/uniontrib/20080909/news_1m9arena.html |author=Varga, George |title=Arm of entertainment giant taking over at Sports Arena |date=September 9, 2008 |work=San Diego Union-Tribune |access-date=February 27, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305085910/http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/uniontrib/20080909/news_1m9arena.html |archive-date=March 5, 2016 |url-status=dead }} In their first season after moving to Houston, the Rockets did not have their own arena, and they played their first two years at various venues in the city, including the Astrodome, AstroHall, Sam Houston Coliseum and Hofheinz Pavilion, the latter eventually being adopted as their home arena until 1975. They also had to play "home" games in other cities such as San Antonio, Waco, Albuquerque, and even San Diego in efforts to extend the fan-base. During their first season, the Rockets averaged less than 5,000 fans per game (roughly half full), and in one game in Waco, there were only 759 fans in attendance.

Their first permanent arena in Houston was the 10,000 seat Hofheinz Pavilion on the campus of the University of Houston, which they moved into starting in their second season. They played in the arena for four years, before occupying The Summit in 1975. The arena, which could hold 16,611 spectators,{{cite news |url=http://www.htexas.com/feature.cfm?Story=451 |title=Lakewood Church Set to Open Doors |last=Horton |first=Marianne |date=July 2005 |work=H Texas Magazine |access-date=February 27, 2009 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071009161511/http://www.htexas.com/feature.cfm?Story=451 |archive-date = October 9, 2007}} was their home for the next 28 years. It was renamed the Compaq Center from 1998 to 2003. Following the 1994 title, the Rockets had a sellout streak of 176 consecutive home games, including the playoffs, which lasted until 1999. However, the struggling 2000–01 and 2001–02 seasons saw Houston having the worst attendance average in the league, with less than 12,000 spectators each season.{{cite web|url=http://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/Drafting-Yao-Ming-means-big-business-for-Rockets-2073320.php|title=Drafting Yao Ming means big business for Rockets|first=Jonathan|last=Feigen|work=Houston Chronicle|date=June 30, 2002 |access-date=October 25, 2015}}

For the 2003–04 season, the Rockets moved into their new arena, Toyota Center, with a seating capacity of 18,500. During the 2007–08 season where the team achieved a 22-game winning streak, the Rockets got their best numbers to date, averaging 17,379 spectators.{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/attendance?year=2008 |title=NBA Attendance Report – 2008 |work=ESPN |access-date=March 1, 2009}} These were exceeded once James Harden joined the team in 2012. The Rockets averaged 18,123 spectators during the 2013–14 season, selling out 39 out of the 41 home games.{{cite web|url=http://blog.chron.com/ultimaterockets/2014/10/rockets-to-unveil-new-luxury-suites-at-toyota-center-for-rockets-season/|title=Rockets to unveil new luxury suites at Toyota Center for Rockets' season|first=Jenny Dial|last=Creech|date=October 1, 2014 |work=Houston Chronicle|access-date=October 25, 2015}}{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/attendance/_/year/2014|title=NBA Attendance Report – 2014 |work=ESPN |access-date=March 1, 2009}} The 2014–15 season had even better numbers, with 40 sellouts and an average of 18,230 tickets sold.2015–16 Media Guide{{Broken anchor|date=March 23, 2024|bot=User:Cewbot/log/20201008/configuration|reason= The anchor (refGuide15) has been deleted.}}, p. 147

When the Rockets debuted in San Diego, their colors were green and gold. Road uniforms featured the city name, while the home uniforms feature the team name, both in a serifed block lettering. This was the only uniform design the Rockets would use throughout their years in San Diego. The Rockets' first logo featured a rocket streaking with a basketball surrounded by the team name.

Upon moving to Houston in 1971, the Rockets replaced green with red. They kept the same design from their San Diego days, save for the change of color and city name. The logo used is of a player with a spinning basketball launching upward, with boosters on his back, leaving a trail of red and gold flames and the words "Houston Rockets" below it.

For the 1972–73 season, the Rockets introduced the famous "ketchup and mustard" logo, so dubbed by fans, featuring a gold basketball surrounded by two red trails, with "Houston" atop the first red trail and "Rockets" (all capitalized save for the lowercase 'E' and 'T') in black surrounding the basketball. The initial home uniforms, used until the 1975–76 season, features the city name, numbers and serifed player name in red with gold trim, while the away uniforms feature the city name (all capitalized except for the lower case 'T' and 'N'), numbers and serifed player name in gold with white trim.

In the 1976–77 season, the Rockets modified their uniforms, featuring a monotone look on the Cooper Black fonts and white lettering on the road uniforms. On the home shorts, the team logo is located on the right leg, while the away shorts feature the team name wordmark on the same location. With minor modifications in the number font, this version was used in all four of their NBA Finals appearances, including their {{nbafy|1994}} and {{nbafy|1995}} championships.

Following the 1995 title, the Rockets opted to modernize their look. After a fan contest with over 5,000 entries, the team went with the idea of Missouri City artist Thomas Nash of a rocket orbiting a basketball, which was then reworked by Houston designer Chris Hill. Nash would later sue the Rockets for breach of contract, given they were using his idea despite not having paid the contest prizes.{{cite news|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/1997/06/27/Franchises/ROCKETS-WIN-LOGO-SUIT-BUT-STILL-MAY-HAVE-TO-PAY-ARTIST.aspx|title=Rockets Win Logo Suit But Still May Have to Pay Artist|date=June 27, 1997|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|access-date=June 2, 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.legalmetric.com/cases/copyright/txsd/txsd_496cv04406.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151120061258/http://www.legalmetric.com/cases/copyright/txsd/txsd_496cv04406.html|archive-date=November 20, 2015|title=Nash v. Houston Rockets, et al.|publisher=LegalMetric|access-date=June 2, 2015}} The NBA suggested that the identity should follow the cartoon-inspired imagery that other teams adopted during the 1990s, leading to a rocket painted with sharkmouth nose art orbiting a basketball. Red was retained, but navy blue and silver became the uniform's primary colors. Both the home white and away navy uniforms featured gradient-fading pinstripes and futuristic number fonts, with side stripes of navy fading to red. This was used until the 2002–03 season.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.intownmag.com/2003/August2003/html/Rockets2003.html |title=Rocket Science |author=Devadanam, Steven |magazine=In Town Magazine |publisher=Houston Chamber of Commerce |date=August 2003 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041121152350/http://www.intownmag.com/2003/August2003/html/Rockets2003.html |archive-date=November 21, 2004}}

File:Houston rockets logo original rough sketch by Rafael Esquer 2002.jpg

The Rockets released simplified logos and uniforms in the 2003–04 season, which were created by Japanese designer Eiko Ishioka in collaboration with Rafael Esquer of New York-based Alfalfa Studio.{{Cite web |date=May 12, 2025 |title=Work: NBA’s Houston Rockets |url=https://www.alfalfastudio.com/houston-rockets |url-status=live |access-date=May 12, 2025 |website=Alfalfa Studio}} The Rockets identity was the third creative collaboration by Ishioka and Esquer; she focused on the uniform, and he on the logo and custom typeface.{{Cite book |last=Wiedemann |first=Julius |title=Logo Design |date=2015 |publisher=Taschen |year=2015 |isbn=978-3-8365-5634-7 |location=Köln, Germany |pages=12-19 |language=English, French, German}}{{Cite web |last=Wiedemann |first=Julius |date=September 6, 2018 |title=I published the work of Rafael Esquer @alfalfanewyork in my first book about brand identity/logo design. |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/BnZbX0fhxXK/ |url-status=live |access-date=May 12, 2025 |website=Instagram}} The logo is a stylized 'R' in the shape of a rocket during takeoff, surrounded by a red orbit streak that can be interpreted as the central circle of a basketball court; it won the Merit Award from Graphis in their Logo Design 6 competition.{{Cite web |date=2005 |title=Logo Design 6: The NBAs Houston Rockets |url=https://graphis.com/entry/303aa12a-4b2c-11e2-a2c9-f23c91dffdec |url-status=live |access-date=May 12, 2025 |website=Graphis}} Said "R" inspired the team's new custom typeface, which Esquer designed so that every single digit could be read well from a distance, whether in the arena or on television. Red once again became the dominant color, with silver and black as secondary.{{cite web|url=http://alfalfastudio.com/projects/houston-rockets/|title=Houston Rockets|publisher=Alfafa Studio|access-date=May 25, 2015|archive-date=May 25, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150525202937/http://alfalfastudio.com/projects/houston-rockets/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/Rockets-settle-on-new-logo-2124612.php|title=Rockets settle on new logo|first=David|last=Barron |date=July 8, 2003|work=Houston Chronicle|access-date=May 25, 2015}} Because the uniforms and the logo were designed in tandem by Ishioka and Esquer, the complete look was organic and fluid. Julius Wiedemann, an editor at Taschen, wrote, “Their organic and collaborative design process has produced the most innovative and popular identity the NBA has seen in years." In 2009, the Rockets invoked the championship years with an alternate red uniform, featuring gold numbers and side stripes.{{cite web|last=Friedman|first=Jason|title=Rockets Unveil Alternate Jersey|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/news/rocketsunveilalternatejersey_2009_09_23.html|publisher=Houston Rockets|date=September 24, 2009|access-date=July 28, 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/Rockets-new-alternate-jerseys-have-look-of-a-1604531.php|title=Rockets' new alternate jerseys have look of a champion|first=Jordan|last=Godwin |date=November 6, 2009|work=Houston Chronicle|access-date=May 25, 2015}} The Rockets had two sleeved alternate jerseys for the 2015–16 season, an alternate silver-colored uniform whose design referenced the design of NASA's Gemini-Titan rocket, and a red and gold jersey featuring the nickname "Clutch City".{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/13667253/houston-rockets-unveil-three-alternate-uniforms|title=Rockets display trio of new alternates, including 'Clutch City' design|date=September 16, 2015|first=Paul|last=Lukas|work=ESPN|access-date=May 25, 2015}} For the 2016–17 season, the Rockets began to wear a black alternate uniform.

Following the switch to Nike in 2017, the Rockets made some slight tweaks to the uniform. While the black "Statement" uniform remained mostly unchanged, the red "Icon" and white "Association" uniforms now feature truncated side striping that no longer wrap around the shoulders. The Rockets also wore a "City" uniform that was similar to their red "Icon" uniforms but with Chinese lettering in place of "Rockets" in front; the design was tweaked the following season with a deeper red and old gold accents.

On June 6, 2019, the Rockets unveiled a new secondary logo that depicts a basketball as a planet, and the ring has the "Houston Rockets" displayed with the classic "R" in the middle.{{Cite tweet |user=houstonrockets |number=1136618742450860033 |date = June 6, 2019 |title=Check out our new Secondary Logo! Our Rockets "R" Primary Logo will stay the same.}} A new uniform set was unveiled two weeks later. The red "Icon" and white "Association" designs featured updated block lettering and bold side panels that depict a launching rocket. The black "Statement" uniform remained with a few alterations. In addition, the Rockets brought back their throwback "ketchup and mustard" 1976–95 red uniform as part of Nike's "Classic" series.{{cite news|author=Rockets PR|title=Rockets Reveal Three New Uniforms for 2019-20 NBA Season|url=https://www.nba.com/rockets/rockets-reveal-three-new-uniforms-2019-20-nba-season|publisher=NBA Media Ventures|website=Rockets.com|date=June 20, 2019|access-date=June 22, 2019}} For the 2019–20 "City" uniform, the Rockets eschewed the Chinese New Year-themed designs and went with a NASA-inspired space theme.{{cite news|author=Rockets PR|title=City Edition Uniform Revealed|url=https://www.nba.com/rockets/news/city-edition-uniform-revealed|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Rockets.com|access-date=November 22, 2019}}

The Rockets' "City" uniform for the 2020–21 season featured a powder blue base as a nod to the city of Houston. The colors resembled those of Houston's former NFL team, the Houston Oilers. For the 2021–22 season, the Rockets announced a partnership with Credit Karma to be featured on the team's jerseys as a sponsor.Shelby Stewart, [https://www.houstoniamag.com/news-and-city-life/2021/08/houston-rockets-partner-with-credit-karma "Houston Rockets Join Forces with Credit Karma Money,"] Houstonia, August 3, 2021.

The 2021–22 Rockets' "City" uniform referenced various uniform designs from the past. The navy base and white pinstripes were taken from the 1995–2003 uniforms. The modified "ketchup and mustard" logo on the waist, as well as a diagonally arranged "Houston" wordmark and block numbers, paid tribute to the 1975–1995 uniforms. The modern "R" logo and white double arches on the side were an homage to the 2003–2019 uniforms.{{cite news|author=Rockets PR|title=Rockets Unveil 2021-22 Nike NBA City Edition Uniform|url=https://www.nba.com/rockets/2021-22-nike-nba-city-edition-uniform|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Rockets.com|access-date=November 3, 2021}} The Rockets retained this "City" uniform in the 2022–23 season.{{cite news|title=Houston Rockets 22/23 City Edition Uniform: Iconic History|url=https://www.nba.com/news/houston-rockets-city-edition|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=NBA.com|access-date=November 10, 2022}}

For the 2023–24 "City" uniform, the Rockets drew inspiration from the uniforms worn by the Phi Slama Jama-era Houston Cougars of the early 1980s. A nod to both teams' legends Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, the white-based uniform featured "H-Town" in red cursive letters with white and blue trim, along with block numbers.{{cite news|title=Houston Rockets 2023-24 City Edition Uniform: Hometown Heroes|url=https://www.nba.com/news/houston-rockets-2023-24-city-edition-uniform-hometown-heroes|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=NBA.com|access-date=November 2, 2023}} The uniforms would also be paired with an alternate court specific to the 2023 NBA in-season tournament, featuring a red base with a middle blue strip and silhouettes of the NBA Cup.{{cite news|title=NBA debuts In-Season Tournament courts for all 30 teams|url=https://www.nba.com/news/nba-debuts-in-season-tournament-courts-for-all-30-teams|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=NBA.com|access-date=November 2, 2023}}

The "H-Town" theme returned for the 2024–25 "City" uniform, this time honoring the 30th anniversary of the Rockets' 1994 and 1995 championships. The design featured "H-Town" (with 't' and 'n' in lowercase letters) in a wordmark similar to the team's 1972–1995 logo, and the black trim along the uniform was shaped after the team's championship banners. The logo of the team's previous home The Summit was emblazoned on the beltline, and the center court logo from that era was placed on the white space between the black piping. Signatures of Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, along with the phrases "BELIEVE IT! AGAIN!", were placed on the bottom of the jersey.{{cite news|title=Rockets City Edition uniforms honor '94, '95 titles|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/42271148/houston-rockets-city-edition-uniforms-2024-25|publisher=ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=November 9, 2024}}

File:Houston rockets mascot.JPG

The mascot was introduced on March 14, 1995, formerly known as "Clutch" . From 1993 to 1995, the mascot was Turbo, a costumed man that performed acrobatic dunks and other maneuvers.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/mascot/turbo.html|title=Rockets: Turbo|website=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015}} In 1995, the Rockets debuted Clutch the Bear as a second mascot, a large teddy bear-like mascot that performs a variety of acts during the games. After eight years of serving as dual mascots, the performer playing Turbo retired, making Clutch the sole mascot for the team.{{cite news |first=Craig |last=Hlavaty |newspaper=Houston Press |title=Mascot School: How To Entertain, And What About Having To Pee? |url=http://www.houstonpress.com/news/mascot-school-how-to-entertain-and-what-about-having-to-pee-6721127 |date=August 16, 2010 |access-date=July 1, 2013 |archive-date=September 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924050644/http://www.houstonpress.com/news/mascot-school-how-to-entertain-and-what-about-having-to-pee-6721127 |url-status=dead }} The mascot was considered and voted fifth for the most recognizable mascot in the league, and was also inducted in the 2006 Mascot Hall of Fame.{{cite web |date=February 8, 2019 |title=Get to know our 20 Hall of Famers! {{!}} Mascot Hall of Fame |url=https://mascothalloffame.com/mascots/current-mascot-inductees/ |access-date=July 24, 2022 |language=en-US |archive-date=November 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221129021124/https://mascothalloffame.com/mascots/current-mascot-inductees/ |url-status=dead }}

{{main|Rockets–Spurs rivalry|Jazz–Rockets rivalry}}

The Rockets have developed many rivalries within the Western Conference ever since the team returned there in 1980. Two are intrastate rivalries, with the San Antonio Spurs, who moved along with the Rockets after four years with them in the Eastern Conference,{{cite news|url=http://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/slideshow/Rockets-Spurs-rivalry-039-s-top-moments-107132.php|title=Rockets-Spurs rivalry's top moments|date=April 11, 2015|work=Beaumont Enterprise|access-date=June 30, 2015}} and the Dallas Mavericks, introduced that very season.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/blog/dallas-mavericks/post/_/id/4705134/series-sets-up-mavs-rockets-to-be-a-real-rivalry|title=Series sets up Dallas Mavericks-Houston Rockets to be a real rivalry – Dallas Mavericks Blog |date=April 16, 2015|work=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015}} Houston has faced both Texas teams in the playoffs since 1980, beating the Spurs three times and losing once. The Rockets lost twice to the Mavericks, while beating them once.{{cite web|url=http://basketball.realgm.com/nba/teams/Houston-Rockets/10/Playoff-History|title=Houston Rockets Playoff History|publisher=RealGM|access-date=June 30, 2015}} Other famed rivalries were with the Los Angeles Lakers, who in the 1980s Showtime era only missed the NBA Finals when beaten by the Rockets,{{cite web|url=http://blog.chron.com/ultimaterockets/2013/04/photos-key-moments-from-rockets-lakers-rivalry/|title=Photos: Key moments from Rockets-Lakers rivalry|work=Ultimate Rockets|date=April 17, 2013|access-date=June 30, 2015}} and the Utah Jazz, who the Rockets beat in both championship seasons but were defeated by Utah in five other occasions.{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/144354-the-best-unknown-rilvalry-in-the-west-the-houston-rockets-and-the-utah-jazz|title=Rockets-Jazz: The Best Rivalry You Haven't Heard Of|author=Diana Allen|work=Bleacher Report|access-date=June 30, 2015}}

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NBA Most Valuable Player Award

• Moses Malone – 1979, 1982{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/m/malonmo01.html |title=Moses Malone Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=March 3, 2009}}
• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1994{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/o/olajuha01.html |title=Hakeem Olajuwon Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=March 3, 2009}}
• James Harden – 2018{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/hardeja01.html |title=James Harden Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=June 25, 2018}}

NBA Finals MVP

• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1994, 1995

NBA Scoring Champions

• Elvin Hayes – 1969{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/hayesel01.html |title=Elvin Hayes Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=March 3, 2009}}
• James Harden – 2018, 2019, 2020{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/hardeja01.html |title=James Harden Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=April 12, 2018}}

NBA Defensive Player of the Year

• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1993, 1994

NBA Rookie of the Year

• Ralph Sampson – 1984
• Steve Francis – 2000

NBA Sixth Man of the Year

• Eric Gordon – 2017

NBA Most Improved Player

• Aaron Brooks – 2010

NBA Coach of the Year

• Tom Nissalke – 1977
• Don Chaney – 1991
• Mike D'Antoni – 2017

NBA Executive of the Year

• Ray Patterson – 1977{{cite magazine |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/basketball/nba/almanac_executive_of_the_year/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629035958/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/basketball/nba/almanac_executive_of_the_year/|archive-date=June 29, 2011 |title=NBA Awards – Executive of the Year |magazine=Sports Illustrated |access-date=March 3, 2009}}
• Daryl Morey – 2018{{cite news|url=https://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/The-NBA-Awards-winners-non-MVP-division-13025625.php|title=Rockets' Daryl Morey named NBA Executive of the Year |work=Houston Chronicle |date=June 25, 2018 |access-date=June 25, 2018}}

J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award

• Calvin Murphy – 1979{{cite web|title=J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award|url=http://www.nba.com/history/awards_citizenship.html|access-date=July 24, 2008|publisher=Turner Sports Interactive, Inc|work=NBA.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101119021210/http://www.nba.com/history/awards_citizenship.html|archive-date=November 19, 2010|url-status=dead}}
• Dikembe Mutombo – 2009{{cite web|title=Mutombo wins J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award |work=NBA.com |access-date=April 23, 2009 |date=April 23, 2009 |url=http://www.nba.com/2009/news/04/23/citizenship.award.nba/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090426052721/http://www.nba.com/2009/news/04/23/citizenship.award.nba/index.html |archive-date=April 26, 2009}}

NBA Hustle Award{{Cite web|title=NBA Hustle Award Winners|url=https://www.nba.com/news/history-hustle-award-winners|access-date=April 24, 2024|website=www.nba.com|language=en}}

• Patrick Beverley – 2017

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NBA All-Defensive First Team

• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1987, 1988, 1990, 1993, 1994
• Rodney McCray – 1988
• Scottie Pippen – 1999
• Patrick Beverley – 2017
• Amen Thompson – 2025

NBA All-Defensive Second Team

• Moses Malone – 1979
• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1985, 1991, 1996, 1997
• Rodney McCray – 1987
• Shane Battier – 2008, 2009
• Ron Artest – 2009
• Patrick Beverley – 2014{{cite web |url=http://blog.chron.com/ultimaterockets/2014/06/pat-beverley-makes-nba-all-defensive-team-on-second-unit/ |title=Pat Beverley makes NBA All-Defensive Team on second unit |work=Houston Chronicle |date=June 2, 2014 |access-date=July 7, 2014}}

NBA All-Rookie First Team

• Elvin Hayes – 1969
• Calvin Murphy – 1971
• Joe Meriweather – 1976
• John Lucas – 1977
• Ralph Sampson – 1984
• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1985
• Steve Francis – 2000
• Yao Ming – 2003
• Luis Scola – 2008
• Jae'Sean Tate – 2021
• Jalen Green – 2022

NBA All-Rookie Second Team

• Robert Horry – 1993
• Matt Maloney – 1997
• Cuttino Mobley – 1999
• Michael Dickerson – 1999
• Eddie Griffin – 2002
• Luther Head – 2006
• Carl Landry – 2008
• Chandler Parsons – 2012
• Tari Eason – 2023
• Jabari Smith Jr. – 2023
• Amen Thompson – 2024

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All-NBA First Team

• Moses Malone – 1979, 1982
• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1987, 1988, 1989, 1993, 1994, 1997
• James Harden – 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020

All-NBA Second Team

• Moses Malone – 1980, 1981
• Ralph Sampson – 1985
• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1986, 1990, 1996
• Yao Ming – 2007, 2009
• Tracy McGrady – 2007
• Dwight Howard – 2014{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/2014/news/06/04/2013-14-all-nba-teams/index.html|title=Durant, LeBron headline 2013–14 All-NBA First Team|work=NBA.com|date=June 4, 2014|access-date=May 21, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140604220934/http://www.nba.com/2014/news/06/04/2013-14-all-nba-teams/index.html|archive-date=June 4, 2014|url-status=dead}}

All-NBA Third Team

• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1991, 1995, 1999
• Clyde Drexler – 1995
• Yao Ming – 2004, 2006, 2008
• Tracy McGrady – 2005, 2008
• James Harden – 2013
• Russell Westbrook – 2020

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{{Col-2}}

All-Star2015–16 Media Guide{{Broken anchor|date=March 23, 2024|bot=User:Cewbot/log/20201008/configuration|reason= The anchor (refGuide15) has been deleted.}}, pp. 152-3

• Don Kojis – 1968, 1969
• Elvin Hayes – 1969–1972
• Jack Marin – 1973
• Rudy Tomjanovich – 1974–1977, 1979
• Moses Malone – 1978–1982
• Calvin Murphy – 1979
• Ralph Sampson – 1984–1987
• Hakeem Olajuwon – 1985–1990, 1992–1997
• Otis Thorpe – 1992
• Charles Barkley – 1997
• Clyde Drexler – 1996, 1997
• Steve Francis – 2002–2004
• Tracy McGrady – 2005–2007
• Yao Ming – 2003–2009, 2011
• James Harden – 2013–2020
• Dwight Howard – 2014
• Russell Westbrook – 2020
• Alperen Şengün – 2025

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All-Star head coach

• Rudy Tomjanovich – 1997
• Mike D'Antoni – 2018

All-Star Game MVP2015–16 Media Guide{{Broken anchor|date=March 23, 2024|bot=User:Cewbot/log/20201008/configuration|reason= The anchor (refGuide15) has been deleted.}}, p. 150

• Ralph Sampson – 1985

Three-Point Contest champion

• Eric Gordon – 2017

Skills Challenge champion

• Patrick Beverley – 2015

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{{Main|Houston Rockets statistics and records}}

Bold denotes still active with team.

Italics denotes still active but not with team.

Points scored (regular season) (as of the end of the 2024–25 season){{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/HOU/leaders_career.html |title=Rockets Career Leaders : Statistics |publisher=Basketball-Reference.com |access-date=April 14, 2016}}

{{div col|colwidth=20em}}

1. Hakeem Olajuwon (26,511)
2. James Harden (18,365)
3. Calvin Murphy (17,949)
4. Rudy Tomjanovich (13,383)
5. Elvin Hayes (11,762)
6. Moses Malone (11,119)
7. Yao Ming (9,247)
8. Robert Reid (8,823)
9. Mike Newlin (8,480)
10. Otis Thorpe (8,177)
11. Cuttino Mobley (7,448)
12. Steve Francis (7,281)
13. Tracy McGrady (6,888)
14. Allen Leavell (6,684)
15. Jalen Green (6,173)
16. Vernon Maxwell (6,002)
17. Ralph Sampson (5,995)
18. Eric Gordon (5,944)
19. Kenny Smith (5,910)
20. Luis Scola (5,597)
21. Rodney McCray (5,059)
22. Sleepy Floyd (5,030)
23. Stu Lantz (4,947)
24. Trevor Ariza (4,863)
25. Alperen Şengün (4,583)
26. Lewis Lloyd (4,384)
27. Clyde Drexler (4,155)
28. Buck Johnson (4,139)
29. John Block (4,138)
30. Clint Capela (4,075)
31. Don Kojis (4,037)
32. John Lucas II (3,756)
33. Kevin Kunnert (3,550)
34. Aaron Brooks (3,465)
35. Rafer Alston (3,370)
36. Mario Elie (3,356)
37. Robert Horry (3,109)
38. Kevin Martin (3,068)
39. Shane Battier (3,052)
40. Charles Barkley (3,017)
41. Chandler Parsons (3,002)
42. Matt Bullard (2,991)
43. Dwight Howard (2,919)
44. Ed Ratleff (2,813)
45. Jim Barnett (2,794)
46. Jabari Smith Jr. (2,752)
47. Patrick Beverley (2,708)
48. Mitchell Wiggins (2,648)
49. Maurice Taylor (2,619)
50. Cliff Meely (2,594)

{{div col end}}

Other Statistics (regular season) (as of the end of the 2024–25 season)

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{{for|the complete list of Houston Rockets players|Houston Rockets all-time roster}}

{{for|the players drafted by Houston Rockets|List of Houston Rockets first and second round draft picks}}

{{Houston Rockets roster}}

The Rockets currently do not own the draft rights to unsigned draft picks who have been playing outside the NBA.

A drafted player, either an international draftee or a college draftee who is not signed by the team that drafted him, is allowed to sign with any non-NBA teams. In this case, the team retains the player's draft rights in the NBA until one year after the player's contract with the non-NBA team ends.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbafaq.com/salarycap.htm|title=NBA Salary Cap FAQ – 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement|quote=If the player is already under contract to, or signs a contract with a non-NBA team, the team retains the player's draft rights for one year after the player's obligation to the non-NBA team ends. Essentially, the clock stops as long as the player plays pro ball outside the NBA.|first=Larry|last=Coon|author-link=Larry Coon|access-date=April 13, 2014}} This list includes draft rights that were acquired from trades with other teams.

• ¹ Also served as head coach (1991–2003).
• ² As Dawson did not play for the Rockets, the team used his initials.{{cite news |url=http://www.nba.com/rockets/news/Rockets_will_honor_general_man-218952-34.html |title=Tribute to Dawson |last=Pierce |first=Damien |date=April 4, 2007 |work=NBA.com |access-date=February 24, 2009}}
• The NBA retired Bill Russell's No. 6 for all its member teams on August 11, 2022.{{cite web |title=Bill Russell's No. 6 jersey to be retired throughout NBA |url=https://www.nba.com/news/bill-russells-no-6-jersey-to-be-retired-throughout-nba |website=NBA.com |access-date=August 24, 2022 |date=August 11, 2022}}{{cite news |last1=Golliver |first1=Ben |title=NBA permanently retires Bill Russell's No. 6 |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2022/08/11/bill-russell-nba-jersey-retirement/ |newspaper=Washington Post |access-date=August 24, 2022 |date=August 11, 2022}}

Notes:

• ¹ All three players were also inducted to the Hall of Fame as members of the 1992 Olympic team.
• ² Tomjanovich also played for the Rockets from 1970 to 1981 and served as assistant coach from 1983 to 1992.
• ³ In total, Newell was inducted into the Hall of Fame twice – as contributor and as a member of the 1960 Olympic team.
• ⁴ Adelman also played for the Rockets from 1968 to 1970.

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{{Main|List of Houston Rockets head coaches}}

;San Diego Rockets{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/nba/teams/history/HOU|title=Houston Rockets|date=May 15, 2010|access-date=May 15, 2010|work=CBS Sports|publisher=CBS Interactive}}

;Houston Rockets

On October 4, 2019, the Rockets' general manager Daryl Morey issued a tweet that supported the 2019–20 Hong Kong protests, which drew criticism from the Rockets' owner Tilman Fertitta who said that while Morey was the best general manager in the NBA, the Rockets were not a political organization.{{cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/rockets-gm-daryl-morey-tweets-support-for-hong-kong-protests-prompting-response-from-owner-130019981.html|title=Rockets GM Daryl Morey tweets support for Hong Kong protests, prompting response from owner|website=sports.yahoo.com|date=October 5, 2019}} Morey later deleted the tweet.{{cite news |title=Rockets GM Daryl Morey in hot water after Hong Kong tweet |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/rockets-gm-daryl-morey-in-hot-water-after-hong-kong-tweet/ar-AAIjIMT?li=BBnba9I |agency=MSN |work=USA Today |date=October 5, 2019}} Morey's tweet resulted in the Chinese Basketball Association's suspension of its relationship with the Rockets and the issuance of a statement of dissatisfaction from the consulate office of China in Houston.{{cite news |title=Rockets' general manager's Hong Kong comments anger China |url=https://www.apnews.com/0a660e9e10664e31bf6ee359c22058cf|work=Associated Press News |date=October 7, 2019}} On October 6, Morey and the NBA each issued a separate statement addressing the original tweet; Morey said that he never intended his tweet to cause any offense, while the NBA said the tweet was "Regrettable".{{cite news|last=Chang|first=Joy|date=October 7, 2019|title=Houston Rockets GM's Hong Kong tweet outrages Chinese fans|url=https://www.scmp.com/video/hong-kong/3031915/houston-rockets-gms-hong-kong-tweet-outrages-chinese-fans|work=SCMP|access-date=October 8, 2019}}{{cite news|last=Victor|first=Daniel|date=October 7, 2019|title=Hong Kong Protests Put N.B.A. on Edge in China|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/07/sports/basketball/nba-china-hong-kong.html|work=NYT}} The statements drew attention and subsequent bipartisan criticism from several US politicians. Chinese media outlets, including the Chinese Communist Party-run People's Daily, described Morey and the NBA's statements as non-apologetic and unacceptable, because they did not contain the word "apologize".{{cite news |title=莫雷、NBA声明均未道歉 网友：这是对中国的无视和挑衅 |trans-title=Morey and NBA statements did not apologize. Netizen: This is a disregard and provocation against China |url=http://society.people.com.cn/n1/2019/1007/c428181-31385995.html |access-date=October 7, 2019 |work=society.people.com.cn |publisher=People's Daily |date=October 7, 2019}}{{cite news |title=NBA官方强调莫雷仅代表个人 全文无惩罚无道歉 |trans-title=NBA officially stressed that Morey only represents himself, no punishment, no apology issued |url=https://sports.sina.com.cn/basketball/nba/2019-10-07/doc-iicezzrr0516313.shtml |access-date=October 7, 2019 |publisher=Sina Sport |date=October 7, 2019}}

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