Houston Rockets: The top 30 Rockets players of all time
By T.A. Mock
10. Tracy McGrady, SG/SG, 2004 – 2008
When the Rockets acquired McGrady, he instantly became the face of the franchise. Yes, even over Yao Ming. Expectations were very high for him but, he failed to deliver the championship the team and fans desired. He averaged nearly 23 points a game but, he was incredibly inefficient. He averaged 42% from the field during his time with the Rockets. That and the lack of team success keep him from rising higher.
However, his 13 points in 35 seconds remain of the most incredible basketball feats of all time. He was also inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2017.
9. Rudy Tomjanovich, PF, 1970 – 1981
Rudy T is one of the most iconic players in Houston Rockets history. He was also apart of the squad that helped the team transition from San Diego to Houston. During his 11 year career, he averaged 17.4 points and 8.1 rebounds. But, he could’ve done much more than that. In 1977, an on-court fight with Kermit Washington nearly ended his life, let alone his career. His jersey, #45 is one of five numbers retired by the Rockets.
Rudy T’s contributions didn’t stop after he retired though. He was a Rockets coach from 1983 – 2003, however, he was a championship head coach from 1991 – 2003. If we were counting coaching, he’d be higher on the list but, we’re not, unfortunately.