From title contender to full rebuild
When Tilman Fertitta purchased the Houston Rockets for $2.2 billion in 2017, he inherited a team on the verge of a championship. The team, led by James Harden and Chris Paul, came within one game of making the 2018 NBA Finals, but Paul’s hamstring injury dashed their hopes against the Golden State Warriors.
Just a few years later, everything changed. The Rockets traded away Harden and Russell Westbrook, while key contributors such as P.J. Tucker and Robert Covington also left. General manager Daryl Morey and coach Mike D’Antoni exited, replaced by Rafael Stone and Stephen Silas. The team entered one of its darkest eras, struggling with multiple 20-win seasons.
Turning point: Ime Udoka arrives
After years of frustration, Fertitta made a decisive move and hired Ime Udoka, a coach known for his discipline and commitment. Udoka went 41-41 in his first year — Houston’s best mark in four seasons. His second year removed any remaining doubts. The Rockets won more than 50 games, ranked second in the Western Conference, and ended their playoff drought.
This rapid turnaround reflects both Udoka’s leadership and the steady development of the roster under Stone’s stewardship. As Fertitta points out, patience and cultural change are key. The Rockets went from one of the league’s worst defensive teams to a tough, cohesive team ready to compete every night.
billion dollar return
The results have been stunning – not just on the pitch, but financially. According to Sportico statistics, the Rockets are currently valued at US$5.53 billion, ranking 10th among NBA teams. This number represents a 16% increase from last season.
Fertitta’s long-term bet paid off in every way. A team that once needed to be completely dismantled is now one of the league’s most consistent and promising teams. With Udoka and Stone re-signed and Kevin Durant joining the team in the offseason, Houston’s championship aspirations have once again become a reality.
Fertitta made an unsuccessful bid to buy the team in 1993 for $81 million and now oversees one of the most valuable franchises in basketball. His persistence and willingness to endure the lows changed Houston’s fortunes.
