The Houston Rockets received sad news on February 20. Former Rockets center Robert Reid has passed away after a battle with cancer. He was 68 years old. Following the center’s death, the franchise issued a statement.
“The Fertitta family and the Houston Rockets are deeply saddened by the passing of former player Robert Reid. “His contributions were instrumental in leading the Houston Rockets to their first two NBA Finals appearances in 1980-81 and 1985-86,” the Rockets said in the statement.
The Fertitta family and the Houston Rockets are deeply saddened by the passing of former player Robert Reid, whose contributions were instrumental in leading the Houston Rockets to their first two NBA Finals appearances in 1980-81 and 1985-86. pic.twitter.com/6fc5dyLqDA
– Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) February 20, 2024
Rockets owner speaks ill of Reid’s death
Reid was selected by the Rockets with the 40th overall pick in the 1977 NBA Draft. The center spent his first 10 seasons in the league with the franchise that drafted him. He helped lead them to appearances in the NBA Finals in both 1981 and 1986.
Current Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta didn’t purchase the franchise until 2017, but showed great reverence for the former star after his passing.
“It is with great sadness that my family and I learned of the passing of Rockets legend Robert Reid. I have had the privilege of knowing Robert for over 40 years and his presence always brought joy and positivity to any room he entered. “I will never forget watching the Rockets teams he was a part of in the 80s compete in the Finals and the love he had for the game,” he said.
“My deepest condolences to his wife, Diana, and all those who loved him.”
Rockets fans express disagreement with legend’s passing
Reid is an old school player. But Rockets fans, both young and old, revered him. Following his passing, Rockets fans on social media expressed their condolences with heartfelt messages.
“A good friend and a GREAT man who lived each day with a servant’s heart…his impact on the youth of today will leave a legacy!” said one user.
“Robert Reid came to my school when I was a kid. I saw him years later and not only did he remember the school but he even remembered some of the faculty. He is a very nice man,” another added.
“I saw him regularly at the restaurant where he worked and at the nearby gym. Very humble and kind, and she always watched us/wanted to play. His daughter had to take him out of the gym,” said another.
Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn