The Houston Rockets have a rich history filled with iconic players, dominating big men, and championship glory. Picking an all-time team for a franchise with such a storied past is a tough task, but here’s a look at a 12-man roster that embodies the best of the Rockets, along with their legendary coach.
Head Coach: Rudy Tomjanovich
Rudy Tomjanovich is the only choice for head coach. As a former Rockets player, he understood the team’s culture and led them to back-to-back NBA championships in 1994 and 1995. His mantra, “Never underestimate the heart of a champion,” perfectly encapsulated the grit and determination of those teams. Tomjanovich was a master motivator and strategist, navigating injuries and challenging matchups with poise. His ability to adapt his offensive and defensive schemes, particularly in the playoffs, cemented his legacy as one of the most beloved figures in Rockets history and the architect of their greatest successes.
James Harden
James Harden redefined offensive basketball during his tenure in Houston. A prolific scorer and an elite playmaker, Harden’s signature step-back three and ability to get to the free-throw line made him virtually unguardable. He led the league in scoring three times and assists once, earning an MVP award in 2018. Harden consistently put up historic numbers, pushing the Rockets to contention year after year. While a championship eluded him in Houston, his individual brilliance and impact on the franchise’s offensive identity are undeniable. He truly was the engine of some of the most exciting Rockets teams in recent memory.
He may be the worst defender in NBA history, but The Beard could put the rock in the hole.
Calvin Murphy
Calvin Murphy might be one of the most underrated guards in NBA history, and he was a true fan favorite for the Rockets. Despite his smaller stature, Murphy was an electrifying scorer and a tenacious competitor. He was known for his incredible quickness, acrobatic drives to the basket, and a surprisingly effective mid-range game. Murphy earned an All-Star selection and held many of the Rockets’ scoring records before Hakeem Olajuwon and James Harden arrived. His incredible free-throw shooting percentage throughout his career also stands out, showcasing his precision and dedication to his craft.
Steve Francis
Steve Francis brought an undeniable flair and athleticism to the point guard position for the Rockets. “Stevie Franchise” was a high-flying, explosive player who could dunk with the best of them and showcased incredible ball-handling skills. He was a triple-threat player, capable of scoring, assisting, and rebounding, often filling up the stat sheet. Francis was a three-time All-Star in Houston and, despite some inconsistent team success, he provided countless highlight-reel plays and galvanized the fan base with his exciting style of play and passionate intensity on the court.
Tracy McGrady
Tracy McGrady was a scoring machine and an undeniable talent during his time with the Rockets. When healthy, T-Mac was one of the most dominant offensive players in the league, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court with his smooth jumper, incredible athleticism, and deceptive quickness. His most memorable moment in a Rockets uniform was undoubtedly his 13 points in 35 seconds against the Spurs, a feat that cemented his legend. A multiple-time All-Star in Houston, McGrady’s scoring prowess and clutch performances, despite injury struggles, left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Elvin Hayes
Elvin Hayes, known as “The Big E,” was the first superstar for the Houston Rockets (then the San Diego Rockets). He made an immediate impact, leading the league in scoring as a rookie and establishing himself as a dominant force in the paint. Hayes was a prolific rebounder and scorer, possessing a deadly turnaround jumper that was nearly impossible to defend. He was a six-time All-Star during his two stints with the Rockets and helped lay the foundation for future success. His consistent production and all-around game made him one of the premier power forwards of his era.
Moses Malone
Moses Malone revolutionized the center position with his relentless offensive rebounding and sheer will to dominate the paint. A two-time MVP with the Rockets, Malone was an unstoppable force on the boards, often grabbing multiple offensive rebounds on a single possession. He was also a potent scorer, particularly with his powerful post moves and incredible ability to draw fouls. Malone led the Rockets to the NBA Finals in 1981, showcasing his leadership and ability to carry a team. His tireless work ethic and unparalleled rebounding made him an iconic figure in Houston basketball.
Clyde Drexler
Clyde Drexler returned to his hometown and joined the Rockets in 1995, playing a crucial role in their second championship run. “Clyde the Glide” was a smooth, athletic shooting guard/small forward known for his effortless dunks and all-around game. He seamlessly integrated into the Rockets’ system, providing a versatile scoring threat, strong defense, and veteran leadership alongside Hakeem Olajuwon. Drexler’s ability to elevate his play in the clutch and his championship experience proved invaluable, solidifying his place as a key figure in one of the most memorable periods in Rockets history.
Hakeem Olajuwon
Hakeem Olajuwon, “Hakeem the Dream,” is arguably the greatest player in Rockets history and one of the best centers of all time. His “Dream Shake” was an unguardable post move, and his incredible athleticism, shot-blocking prowess, and defensive instincts made him a two-time Defensive Player of the Year and two-time NBA champion. Olajuwon also won back-to-back Finals MVPs, dominating on both ends of the floor. His unique blend of grace and power, combined with his unwavering commitment to winning, makes him the undisputed cornerstone of any all-time Rockets roster.
Ralph Sampson
Ralph Sampson was a dominant force and a truly unique talent whose career was unfortunately curtailed by injuries. Standing at 7’4″, Sampson possessed incredible agility and skill for his size, capable of handling the ball, shooting, and passing with remarkable finesse. He was a crucial part of the “Twin Towers” alongside Hakeem Olajuwon, leading the Rockets to the NBA Finals in 1986. A four-time All-Star, Sampson’s potential was limitless, and his impact during his healthy years in Houston showcased a player who could have been one of the greatest ever.
Yao Ming
Yao Ming was a global phenomenon and a dominant center for the Rockets, bridging cultures and captivating fans with his skill and charisma. Standing at 7’6″, Yao had an incredibly refined post-game, soft touch around the rim, and a surprisingly good mid-range jumper. He was a formidable shot-blocker and a strong rebounder, making him a two-way threat. An eight-time All-Star, Yao consistently performed at an elite level when healthy. His unfortunate injury history prevented him from achieving even greater heights, but his impact on the franchise and the game of basketball is undeniable.
Robert Horry
Robert Horry, “Big Shot Bob,” earned his nickname in Houston with his uncanny ability to hit clutch shots in critical moments. While not a statistical superstar, Horry’s value to the Rockets’ championship teams was immense. He was a versatile forward who could defend multiple positions, stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, and make the crucial play when it mattered most. His composure under pressure and fearless approach to late-game situations made him an invaluable asset and a fan favorite during the Rockets’ championship era.
Kenny Smith
Kenny Smith, “The Jet,” was the starting point guard for both Rockets championship teams and an integral part of their success. Smith was a quick and efficient offensive player, known for his accurate three-point shooting and ability to push the pace. He was a reliable ball-handler and a strong locker room presence. His memorable performance in Game 1 of the 1995 NBA Finals, where he set a Finals record for three-pointers made, perfectly encapsulates his impact and his ability to deliver on the biggest stage. His steady hand and timely scoring were vital for those championship squads.
