HOUSTON – Longtime Rockets legend and fan favorite Robert Reid, who played a big role in two NBA Finals runs in 1980-81 and 1985-86, has died.
Reid was 68. His passing was announced by the Rockets organization on Tuesday following his death Monday night.
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The Fertitta Family and the Houston Rockets are deeply saddened by the passing of former player, Robert Reid, whose contributions were instrumental in guiding 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
Reid quickly developed a loyal following from the Rockets fan base during his playing days.
Fans fell in love with his leadership and versatility on the floor.
He was an offensive threat and excelled defensively, as well.
The 6 foot 8 inch forward was drafted by the Rockets in the second round in 1977, and also had stints in the NBA with Philadelphia, Portland and Charlotte.
One of Reid’s former teammates and longtime friends has been fellow Rockets legend Calvin Murphy who spoke with KPRC 2 Sports Director Randy McIlvoy on Tuesday afternoon.
“Anytime you lose anybody it’s devastating to you,” Murphy said. " Robert was really special to me. When he came into the league, he was my personal rookie and I adopted him as a young player and fun things like that. We got to be great friends over the years. He had his own personality and he was really special.”
One of my favorite #Rockets players was Robert Reid b/c he was a "Team first" player & left it all on the floor every night. He knew it was a blessing he had the chance to play in the NBA and never took it for granted. I spoke with Calvin Murphy today about the passing of Reid. pic.twitter.com/fI8c7lTjJW
— Randy McIlvoy (@KPRC2RandyMc) February 20, 2024
Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta took time out Monday to post on X ( formerly Twitter) to express his feelings on what Reid meant to the Rockets organization and the city of Houston.
My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, Diana, and all those who held him dear. Robert's absence will be deeply felt, and he will be fondly remembered.
— Tilman Fertitta (@TilmanJFertitta) February 20, 2024