Robert Reid, a prominent figure in two NBA Finals teams as a former Houston Rockets standout, passes away at the age of 68.
Robert Reid, a pivotal figure who spent a decade with the Rockets and notably contributed to the franchise’s first two NBA Finals appearances, passed away at the age of 68 on Monday following a battle with cancer.
Tilman Fertitta, owner of the Rockets, expressed his deep sadness regarding Reid’s passing on Twitter. He reminisced about their 40-year friendship and praised Reid’s positive influence both on and off the court. Fertitta recalled the memorable Rockets teams of the ’80s, in which Reid played a significant role, and extended heartfelt condolences to Reid’s wife, Diana, and all those who cherished him.
Selected by the Rockets in the second round of the 1977 NBA draft from San Antonio’s St. Mary’s University, Reid swiftly emerged as a team leader known for his versatility and defensive prowess, despite averaging 11.6 points per game during his tenure with the Rockets.
Reid, a San Antonio native, notably stood as the third-highest scorer behind Moses Malone and Calvin Murphy during the 1981 season, which culminated in an NBA Finals appearance. In that series, he was tasked with defending Larry Bird, a feat that garnered recognition, albeit with some scrutiny, in Bird’s memoir “Drive: The Story of My Life.”
Following Malone’s departure in 1982, Reid briefly retired at 27 to focus on his religious pursuits but returned the subsequent season. He continued to play for the Rockets for five more seasons, including the 1986 campaign, where he played a crucial role in the team’s journey to the NBA Finals, ultimately losing to Bird’s Celtics.
After his tenure with the Rockets, Reid spent two seasons with the Charlotte Hornets, followed by brief stints with the Trail Blazers and 76ers before retiring in 1991 at the age of 35.
A resident of the Houston area post-retirement, Reid remained involved in local charities and left a lasting impact on the Rockets’ franchise, ranking among the top 10 in various career statistical categories.
Beyond his playing career, Reid ventured into coaching, including a two-season stint as head coach of the Yakima Sun Kings. Eldridge Recasner, who later played for the Rockets, shared anecdotes of Reid’s coaching style, highlighting his unique and humorous approach to the game.
Robert Reid’s legacy extends beyond the basketball court, leaving an indelible mark on the Rockets organization and the community he served.
