What’s in a name? The origins of the names of some NBA teams have a history. For example, did the Houston Rockets get their name because Houston, Texas is home to NASA? In fact, the Rockets originated in San Diego. The “Rockets” franchise thing in a “team name” contest. He based this choice on San Diego’s motto, “A City on the Move.”
In fact, the Rockets have been flying to the NBA Finals since they joined the NBA in 1971-1972. Before the start of the season, the team relocated from San Diego, California; to Houston, Texas. The name “Rockets” was ideal, since Houston was the headquarters of NASA. Unfortunately, the Rockets finished the season with a 34-48 record.
The Rockets’ rise to the top of the NBA totem pole would take more than two decades. About a decade later, they took their first step in the 1980-1981 season. Although they put up a losing record of 40-42, the Rockets snuck into the playoffs. First they stunned the world champion Los Angeles Lakers. They then defeated the San Antonio Spurs (4-3) and the Kansas City Kings (4-1), but lost in the NBA Finals to the mighty Boston Celtics (4-2).
During the 1985-1986 season, the Rockets returned to prominence, thanks primarily to the play of Ralph Sampson and Hakeem Olajuwon. They finished the regular season with a record of 43-31. The Rockets then made their way to the NBA Finals, quite easily. They beat the Sacramento Kings (3-0), Denver Nuggets (4-2) and Los Angeles Lakers (4-2). However, the Celtics simply outscored the Rockets in the NBA Finals (4-2).
In the 1993-1994 season, the Rockets achieved success. After becoming victors in the first 15 games of the season, they eventually went 58-24. Hakeen Olajuawon and a solid supporting cast marched to the playoffs. They defeated the Portland Trailblazers (3-2), Phoenix Suns (4-3) and Utah Jazz (4-1). In the NBA Finals, the Rockets faced the New York Knicks. Olajuwon blocked John Starks’ final shot at the buzzer, securing the Rockets’ victory. They would go on to win Game 7 and their first NBA Championship.
In the following season, the Rockets would defend their NBA crown. They completed the regular season with a marginally good record of 47-35. His path through the playoffs included series wins over the Utah Jazz (3-2), Phoenix Suns (4-3) and San Antonio Spurs (4-2). In the first two series, the Rockets had to fight against deficits of 2-1 and 3-1, respectively. The Rockets completed an incredible season by sweeping the Orlando Magic in the NBA Finals.
The Houston Rockets have retired the jersey numbers of five players, throughout their franchise’s history:
Clyde Drexler – #22 (Ahead) 1994-1998
Moses Malone – #24 (Center) 1976-1982
Calvin Murphy – #32 (Guard) 1970-1983
Hakeem Olajuwon #34 (Center) 1984-2001
Rudy Tomjanovich #45 (front) 1970-1981
Throughout the history of the Houston Rockets, the sky has been the limit. Although they have experienced challenging games, series, and seasons, they have steadily moved forward and upward. Wear Houston Rockets merchandise to cheer on the Rockets as they push toward another NBA championship!
