The sporting world mourns the loss of a revered figure, as Robert Reid, a distinguished guard/forward who left an indelible mark on the Houston Rockets and the NBA, passed away at the age of 68.
Reid’s death was confirmed by the Rockets organization on Tuesday, following his battle with cancer, which saw its final moments at his home in Houston.
The Journey of a Basketball Stalwart
Robert Reid‘s basketball career spanned 13 rigorous seasons in the NBA, with the majority etched in the hearts of Houston Rockets fans. Drafted in the second round (40th overall) in 1977 from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas, Reid’s journey was nothing short of remarkable.
Despite taking a hiatus from basketball for religious reasons after the 1981-82 season, he returned with a fervor that showcased his dedication to the game and his team.
With an average of 11.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists over 919 games (366 starts), Reid was a vital cog in the Rockets machinery, leading the team to their first two NBA Finals appearances in the 1980-81 and 1985-86 seasons. His contributions were pivotal in those historic runs, despite both culminating in losses to the Boston Celtics.
A Legacy Cemented in Rockets Lore
Reid’s statistical contributions place him among the pantheon of Rockets legends, currently ranking fourth in games played (762), fifth in steals (881), and prominently in points (8,823), rebounds (3,706), blocks (364), and assists (2,253).
This statistical testament to Reid’s prowess on the court barely scratches the surface of his impact on the team and the sport.
The Fertitta family, currently at the helm of the Houston Rockets, along with the entire organization, expressed their profound sadness and extended heartfelt condolences to Reid’s wife, Diana, and all who cherished him.
Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta reminisced about Reid’s joyous and positive demeanor, highlighting the significant void his passing leaves in the Rockets family and the broader basketball community.
Reflecting on a Life Well Played
Reid’s legacy stretches beyond the confines of the basketball court. His intermittent departure and subsequent return to the game for religious reasons speak volumes about a man who valued faith as much as his career.
This duality of commitment resonates with those who knew Reid off the court, where his impact was equally transformative. As the Houston Rockets and the NBA at large navigate this moment of loss, the community reflects on the legacy of a player who exemplified dedication, resilience, and the spirit of the game.
Reid’s tenure with the Rockets, marked by heartache in Finals appearances but underscored by relentless pursuit of excellence, represents a chapter of Houston’s storied franchise that will resonate for generations.
A Tribute to a Fallen Star
As tributes pour in, the basketball community and fans alike are reminded of the fleeting nature of athletic greatness and the enduring impact of character. Robert Reid’s name will forever be synonymous with an era of Houston Rockets basketball that laid the foundations for future success.
His journey from the 40th pick to a revered NBA veteran encapsulates the essence of sports – an odyssey of triumph, trials, and an undying love for the game. In his passing, Robert Reid’s legacy is cemented not only in the annals of Rockets history but in the hearts of those who had the privilege of witnessing his contributions to the game of basketball.
As the Rockets organization and fans reminisce about Reid’s towering presence, both on and off the court, they pay homage to a figure whose life mirrored the relentless spirit and passion that define the essence of sportsmanship and humanity.
