ROCKETS

The Rockets officially announce hiring of Ime Udoka as new head coach. Press conference is set for Wednesday at 1 p.m.

The Rockets have an agreement in place with Ime Udoka to become new Head Coach

It’s been an eventful week for the Rockets, as to be expected.

The Houston Rockets will be in search for a new head coach this offseason after the organization declined Stephen Silas’ 4th-year option, according to multiple reports.

Kevin Porter Jr. and Jalen Green each had 26 points and the Houston Rockets beat the Charlotte Hornets 112-109 on Friday night.

'Mango Punch!' celebrates its 30th anniversary with a concert.

At the Knights of Momus Parade in Galveston, Rockets owner Tillman Fertitta yelled out “Pray for Victor,” referring to the Rockets’ hope to draft French super prospect Victor Wembanyana in the 2023 NBA Draft, while wrapping up an interview with KPRC 2′s Frank Billingsley.

Hey guys, it’s Ari Alexander with your Rockets newsletter as Houston gets a much-needed All-Star break as the team is on a seven-game losing streak.

Hello everyone, this is KPRC 2 Sports Director Randy McIlvoy checking in with his week’s Rockets Newsletter!

Keegan Murray had a career-high 30 points and set a franchise rookie record with eight 3-pointers to help the Sacramento Kings snap a two-game skid with a 140-120 win over the Houston Rockets on Monday night.

Hi KPRC2 Insiders,

The streak is over…for now.

Get out your party hats and let’s celebrate Houston Rockets legend and NBA icon Hakeem Olajuwon as we celebrate his 60th birthday this weekend!

Thursday at 1:00 p.m. on KPRC 2, can you imagine what it’s like to go shopping with thee Calvin Murphy?

For the second time this week, Rockets forward Tari Eason spent some of his time off of the court giving back to the community.

The NBA announced Tuesday that the Defensive Player of the Year award has been renamed “The Hakeem Olajuwon Trophy“ in honor of the Hall of Famer and former Rockets star.

It’s the season of giving and a number of pro athletes that play for your favorite Houston teams are full of spirit.

Paul George scored 22 points in three quarters to lead the Los Angeles Clippers to 122-106 rout of the Houston Rockets.

Chancellor Johnson checking in for this week’s Rockets newsletter.

Hello to our KPRC 2 viewers out there on this Friday morning in H-Town!

Chancellor Johnson checking in for NBA Tip-Off week! As the Astros continue to chase their quest for another World Series title it can be easy to forget their neighbors down the street, the Houston Rockets. They’ll begin their season on Wednesday.

Ahead of their season opener this Friday, the Houston Rockets have signed guard Kevin Porter Jr. to a multi-year extension on Monday.

Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. on Houston Life -- Calvin Murphy! The Rockets legend tells us what it means to him to be selected for Houston’s 2023 sports hall of fame class. That’s Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. on KPRC 2.

Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. on Houston Life, can you dance? What about pop & lock or break dance? Perhaps tumbling is your talent. The group travels around the world performing in front of tens of thousands of fans. Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. on KPRC 2 Lauren Kelly is live with details on how you can audition to be part one of the best groups in the business.

If there’s anybody who knows a thing or two about the Houston Rockets’ #3 overall pick, Jabari Smith Jr., It’s his college head coach, Bruce Pearl.

Jae’Sean Tate and the Houston Rockets have agreed to a 3-year contract worth $22.1 million, a league source tells KPRC 2.

Fresh off her run on NBC’s hit competition show “Dancing With Myself, “a local Rockets dancer brings her moves to Houston Life.

NBA legend Scottie Pippen returns to Houston and stops by our studio

Thursday at 3:00 p.m. on Houston Life, NBA star Tracy McGrady joins us live in studio! McGrady is the basketball Hall of Famer who played six of his 15-year NBA seasons with the Rockets. He’s also a Houston area resident. He’ll talk about his new Ones Basketball League (OBL) Thursday at 3:00 p.m. on KPRC 2.

Hakeem Olajuwon was one of a host of former Houston Rockets in the first third of players unveiled by the NBA as the 75 greatest players in league history.

One day after deciding to convert Armoni Brooks' contract into a two-way deal, the Houston Rockets went even further to show their commitment to the former University of Houston Cougar.

The fifth annual Houston Sports Awards will feature the induction of three local favorites into the Houston Sports Hall of Fame.

Jack Coan hit Michael Mayer for an 18-yard touchdown pass with 1:09 remaining for the third lead change in a wild fourth quarter and No. 8 Notre Dame held off Toledo 32-29.

Before becoming the second overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Jalen Green was the sixth man for Team USA in junior international competition.

June 22, 2021 marks the 59th birthday for Houston basketball legend Clyde Drexler. Number 22 first made a name for himself as part of the iconic Phi Slama Jama team at the University Houston. He eventually dominated in the NBA as well and has had his number retired at both the college and the professional level.

Houston Rockets rookie Jae’Sean Tate was named First Team All-Rookie.

Kyle Kuzma’s driving layup with 6.9 seconds remaining gave the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers a 124-122 victory over the Houston Rockets and kept the defending NBA champions' slim hopes of avoiding the play-in tournament alive.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is condemning the “anarchy” of Jewish-Arab violence in cities across the country after a day of tumultuous unrest.

Legendary Houston broadcaster Bill Worrell will be stepping aside from his daily Houston Rockets play-by-play duties after May 14.

Palestinian militants have launched dozens of rockets from Gaza and Israel unleashed new air strikes against them.

The NBA announced on Wednesday that they have fined Houston Rockets guard Kevin Porter $50,000 for violating the league’s Health and Safety Protocols.

The Houston Rockets announced on Monday evening that point guard John Wall will likely miss the remainder of the 2020-21 regular season.

Jordan Clarkson scored 22 points, Joe Ingles had 21 and the NBA-leading Utah Jazz beat the Houston Rockets 112-89 on Wednesday night.

Christian Wood scored 25 points, Kelly Olynyk added 24 and the Houston Rockets used a strong third quarter to rally past the Orlando Magic 114-110.

Houston Rockets guard John Wall (1) drives on Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jaylen Nowell (4) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Saturday, March 27, 2021, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Andy Clayton-King)MINNEAPOLIS – Kevin Porter Jr. scored 25 points in his return to Houston’s lineup, John Wall had 13 points and 12 assists and the Rockets rebounded to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 129-107 on Saturday night. The Rockets came back a night later to win for the second time in four games after a 20-game losing streak. Kelly Olynyk added 16 points in his first game for Houston after coming over from Miami in the trade for Victor Oladipo. Led by their holdover star Wall, the Rockets shot 73.9% in the first quarter and scored 41 points.

Victor Oladipo #7 of the Houston Rockets gets off a shot around Lauri Markkanen #24 of the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on January 18, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. The Houston Rockets are trading Victor Oladipo to the Miami Heat. The Rockets had acquired Oladipo earlier this season as part of the four-team deal involving James Harden heading to the Brooklyn Nets. In 20 games with the Rockets, Oladipo averaged 21.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists. The two-time All-Star was widely expected to be traded on Thursday as he faces unrestricted free agency at season’s end, combined with the Rockets’ season struggles to date.

Houston Rockets' John Wall (1) drives on Toronto Raptors' Fred VanVleet (23) during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game Monday, March 22, 2021, in Houston. But Wall had 19 points, 10 assists and 11 rebounds, his first triple-double since March 17, 2016. The Rockets closed out the third quarter with an 88-86 lead and opened the fourth quarter on a 9-1 run to pull away. AdThe Raptors led 28-27 at the end of the first quarter. In their losing streak, Houston led after the first quarter only three times, including on Feb. 26 when they led the Raptors 31-30.

(AP Photo/Michael Wyke)HOUSTON – Mired in a long losing streak, the Houston Rockets twice put the ball in John Wall's hands in the waning moments. The Rockets lost their team-record 20th straight game, falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder 114-112 Sunday when Wall missed two shots in the final 10 seconds. This one hurts.”Dort scored 23 points and Isaiah Roby had 18 for the Thunder, who led by as many as 13 points. They shot a sizzling 14 of 21 on 3s in the second quarter, however, and Oklahoma City led 66-62 at halftime. The Rockets hit a franchise-record 28 3s in a win against the Thunder on Feb. 1, just three days before their last win.

Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green keeps the ball from Houston Rockets' Danuel House Jr. during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, March 17, 2021, in Houston. (Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo via AP)(AP) – Draymond Green had 16 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists and the Golden State Warriors handed the Houston Rockets their franchise-record 18th straight loss, 108-94 on Wednesday night. Golden State breezed past the struggling Rockets to snap a season-high four-game road losing streak. It’s the first time the Rockets have lost nine consecutive home games since they dropped 11 straight in 1983. Poole led Golden State in the second, making 15 points and hitting 4 of 6 3-point attempts.

NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)SACRAMENTO, Calif. – De’Aaron Fox had 30 points, nine assists and seven rebounds, and the Sacramento Kings sent the Houston Rockets to their 14th consecutive loss, 125-105 on Thursday night. Sacramento never trailed after a 15-0 run early in the second quarter. … Center Justin Patton picked up his fourth foul with 6:47 left in the second quarter. … Sacramento was called for two shot clock violations in the second quarter.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Houston Rockets say they are attempting to trade disgruntled forward P.J. At some point there was some mutual agreement with P.J., his agent, (Rockets general manager Rafael Stone) and the organization that P.J. With Tucker averaging career lows in scoring (4.4 points) and shooting percentage (36.6), the Rockets initially planned to have Tucker come off the bench in the game against Sacramento. AdWhen the game started, Tucker was not on the Rockets bench and was not seen at Golden 1 Center. “We’re going to try to figure out something that works for (Tucker) and works for us,” Silas said.

Houston Rockets head coach Stephen Silas calls a play during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Toronto Raptors Friday, Feb. 26, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)The Houston Rockets announced on Monday that they are signing forward Anthony Lamb from their NBA G League affiliate, Rio Grande Valley. Lamb was eligible for the 2020 NBA Draft following his senior season at Vermont and went undrafted. After starting the G League season with the Canton Charge, Lamb was acquired by the Vipers and appeared in six regular season games while averaging 18.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks. The move comes as the Rockets have lost 13 straight games. The team returns from the All-Star Break on Thursday with a road game in Sacramento.

HOUSTON – Throughout the month of March, the Houston Rockets and the Rockets Women’s Organization are partnering up with Reliant for the fifth annual ‘HTX Reads Book Drive,’ benefiting the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation. This year Houstonians can support childhood literacy virtually by texting “BookDrive” to 91999, or visiting bushhoustonliteracy.org/bookdrive. In addition to donating money or books, Houstonians are encouraged to celebrate National Read Aloud Month by making reading with their children a daily habit and using #HTXReads when sharing photos on social media. Watch as Lauren Kelly chats with Julie Baker Finck, President, Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, Felicia Stone, Houston Rockets Women’s Organization, and Leanne Schneider, Director Of Community Relations at Reliant about how you can support this wonderful event.

HOUSTON – Sports teams and venues in the Houston area seem to be taking a cautious approach after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott decided to lift capacity limits and the mask mandate starting next week. According to an email sent to season ticket holders, fans will be welcomes back to the stadium in April but in limited numbers. Season ticket holders still have their tickets available and have several options to use them, change them, donate them or pause the account. For more information, season ticket holders can call 713-259-8300.

FILE - In this March 7, 2020, file photo, Houston Rockets guard James Harden stands on the court during a break in the action against the Charlotte Hornets during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Charlotte, N.C. This seasons NBA MVP has won the award before. Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta revealed the team will be retiring Harden’s jersey, stating that the basketball star will forever be a Rocket. “James Harden will always be a Rocket,” Fertitta said according to Yahoo! After eight years with the Rockets, Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets – news with which some Houstonians were not so happy.

CLEVELAND – Jarrett Allen tied his career high with 26 points, grabbed 18 rebounds and blocked four shots as the Cleveland Cavaliers pulled away for a 112-96 win over Houston on Wednesday night. The loss extended the Rockets’ losing streak to nine games. Allen, who leads the NBA making 67.2% of his field goals, made 10 of 11 shots from the floor as Cleveland won for the second straight evening after dropping its previous 10 contests. They beat Atlanta 112-111 on Lamar Stevens’ dunk with 4.1 seconds left Tuesday. John Wall scored 20 points and Victor Oladipo had 17 points and six rebounds in his return from a strained right foot for Houston.

He and wife Reagan are providing water bottles for those in need, after millions of Houstonians lacked clean water. This came as millions of Houstonians’ food spoiled during the power outages, and many grocery store shelves were empty. This is our fundraising campaign to benefit families without power, water, food and shelter in underserved Houston areas. We will be collaborating with @nacchelp, @astrosfoundation, @kidsmealshouston to provide food to families in need. ROBERT GRIFFIN IIIThe former Baylor quarterback and 2011 Heisman trophy winner donated 10,500 meals to the Houston food bank.

New York Knicks guard RJ Barrett dunks next to Houston Rockets' John Wall (1) during the second quarter of an NBA basketball game Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021, in New York. (Wendell Cruz/Pool Photo via AP)NEW YORK (AP) – Julius Randle and rookie Immanuel Quickley each scored 22 points and the New York Knicks sent the Houston Rockets to a season-high fifth straight loss with a 121-99 victory Saturday night. “I thought the unselfishness was important and then we had a number of guys just step up and make shots,” Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said. ... Ray Spalding scored two points in his Rockets’ debut after being called up from the Rockets’ NBA G League affiliate Friday and signed to a two-way contract. The Knicks said Robinson was evaluated by their medical staff Saturday and surgery was recommended.

A close game between the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs appeared to create tension between some fans in attendance. Videos uploaded to Twitter show a brawl between multiple people breaking out during Saturday night’s game at the Toyota Center. A video obtained and edited by KPRC 2′s sister-station KSAT shows a group of Rockets fans who were presumably seated in section 114 crossing into section 113 where the other group of fans was seated and initiating violence. The original social media video shows the Rockets fans being escorted out by security while the Spurs fans appeared to remain in the stands. The Houston Police Department said the Rockets hire off-duty officers for security inside the building.

Victor Oladipo #7 of the Houston Rockets gets off a shot around Lauri Markkanen #24 of the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on January 18, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. CHICAGO – Zach LaVine scored 33 points, and the Chicago Bulls overcame a strong effort by Victor Oladipo in his Houston debut, beating the Rockets 125-120 on Monday night. Oladipo looked good in his first game for Houston, pouring in 32 points. Bulls: The Bulls held out rookie forwards Patrick Williams (bruised right hip) and Otto Porter Jr. (strained lower back). Bulls: The Bulls play at Charlotte on Friday before the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers visit on Saturday.

FILE - In this Jan. 28, 2020, file photo, Indiana Pacers' Victor Oladipo shoots during practice at the team's NBA basketball training facility in Indianapolis. Oladipo was rounding into form when the NBA suddenly stopped. Oladipo met with the media over Zoom, and expressed his excitement to play in Houston. I know where we’re at right now, and I know there’s a lot of room to grow, a lot of room to get better, and I just want to be part of that,” said Oladipo. “I think that that’s huge, because there’s a respect level there,” said Oladipo.

Jae'Sean Tate #8 of the Houston Rockets is tied up by Keldon Johnson #3 of the San Antonio Spurs #3 and LaMarcus Aldridge #12 at AT&T Center on January 16, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas. SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio couldn’t match the intensity of the short-handed Houston Rockets for three quarters, yet a strong finish by the Spurs was enough to snap a four-game home losing streak. “We played our best defense in the fourth quarter,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. He had 23 points, seven rebounds and three assists in 36 minutes during Houston’s 109-103 victory on Thursday. Spurs: Spurs assistant coach Becky Hammon remains out, along with reserve center Drew Eubanks, due to the league’s health and safety protocols.

Houston Rockets guard James Harden dribbles against the Los Angeles Lakers during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2021, in Houston. (Troy Taormina/Pool Photo via AP)NEW YORK – James Harden will start Saturday night in his Brooklyn Nets debut against the Orlando Magic. Nets coach Steve Nash immediately put Harden into the starting lineup. Harden had been listed as questionable to play before the Nets upgraded him to available about two hours before the game. That will require another adjustment for Harden, especially because the team is practicing so infrequently in this season's condensed schedule.

Rockets owner Charlie Thomas looks up at right. HOUSTON – Charlie Thomas, the former owner of the Houston Rockets, died Friday. Thomas bought Houston’s NBA team in 1982 for about $10 million and sold it in 1993 for about $85 million. Current Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta said in a statement posted on Twitter that the team is deeply saddened by Thomas’ passing. “Charlie was a great friend, business partner, and true Texan who loved his Rockets,” Fertitta said in the statement.

Kenyon Martin Jr. #6 of the Houston Rockets drives for two over Jakob Poeltl #25 of the San Antonio Spurs at AT&T Center on January 14, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)SAN ANTONIO – Christian Wood had 27 points and 15 rebounds, and the Houston Rockets rallied to beat the San Antonio Spurs 109-105 on Thursday night in their first game since trading away franchise cornerstone James Harden. Spurs veteran DeMar DeRozan missed a 15-footer with 0.4 seconds left, and San Antonio fouled P.J. The teams meet again Saturday at the AT&T Center in the finale of a two-game set in San Antonio. Spurs: San Antonio is 6-3 with LaMarcus Aldridge in the lineup.

Houston Rockets' James Harden controls the ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the San Antonio Spurs in Houston, Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020. (Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo via AP)HOUSTON – The Brooklyn Nets have agreed to acquire three-time scoring champion James Harden from the Houston Rockets, a deal that reunites him with Kevin Durant and gives him the move that he has sought for weeks, said a person with knowledge of the situation. Other key players: Victor Oladipo goes from Indiana to Houston, and Caris Levert goes from Brooklyn to Indiana, the person said, adding that Cleveland was also part of the massive trade. The Rockets begin a three-game road trip on Thursday night with the first of two straight games against San Antonio. The Rockets are just 3-6 so far this season and only Minnesota has a worse record in the Western Conference.

Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) and coach Stephen Silas, right, react after a play during the second quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers in an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2021, in Houston. (Troy Taormina/Pool Photo via AP)HOUSTON – The Rockets are on the clock and James Harden’s time in Houston will be ending once a trade partner is solidified. NBA sources tell me that the Rockets coaches and players have had it with Harden and his attitude and are ready to move on. The #Rockets have had it with James Harden's antics. HC Stephen Silas says Harden was NOT at practice saying " It was best for the team and for James not to be there."

Houston Rockets forward Christian Wood shoots over Orlando Magic forward Gary Clark, left, and center Nikola Vucevic (9) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. 8, 2021, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)HOUSTON (AP) – Christian Wood scored 22 points and tied a career high with 15 rebounds to lead the Houston Rockets to a 132-90 rout of the short-handed Orlando Magic on Friday night. Houston was up by 29 at halftime and had extended the lead to 81-43 after consecutive 3-pointers by John Wall and P.J. Harden had 15 points and 13 assists, and Tucker added 15 points. He scored 15 points on 5-for-5 3-point shooting.

Malcolm Brogdon #7 of the Indiana Pacers shoots the ball during the first half against the Houston Rockets at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on January 6, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)INDIANAPOLIS – Malcolm Brogdon scored a career-high 35 points and made the go-ahead 3-pointer with 2:22 to go, leading the Indiana Pacers past the Houston Rockets 114-107 on Wednesday night. Pacers: Holiday's first 3-pointer of the game late in the first quarter was his 133rd off the bench for Indiana. ... Doug McDermott left in the second half with a sprained left ankle and did not return.

Houston Rockets guard John Wall passes the ball around Sacramento Kings' Harrison Barnes during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Richard Carson)HOUSTON – John Wall had 22 points and nine assists in his first game since 2018, James Harden had a big finish to score 33 points and the Houston Rockets beat the Sacramento Kings 122-119 on Thursday night. Late in the fourth, Wall found James Harden in transition for a deep 3-pointer that gave Houston a one-point lead. Rockets: Houston was hosting its first regular- season home game since March 10, before COVID-19 derailed last season. ... KJ Martin and Ben McLemore remain away from the team and are self-isolating per COVID-19 protocols.

It started out in such typical fashion, as I listened to Bill O’Brien utter those words at his morning-after press conference at NRG Stadium. Just weeks after that disastrous loss in Kansas City, Cal McNair handed the keys to franchise to Bill O’Brien as he was officially promoted to general manager. The questions on Jack Easterby started heating up, as every word Bill O’Brien said during those virtual meetings was dissected. As much as Astros fans rolled their eyes at his actions, many MLB players and fans openly rejoiced, looking at it as revenge. November 11, 2020: Texans fire Amy PalcicShe was the first woman in the NFL to serve as the head of public relations for a team.

DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 28: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets drives to the basket against Gary Harris #14 of the Denver Nuggets in the third quarter at Ball Arena on December 28, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)DENVER – Nikola Jokic had 19 points, 18 assists and 12 rebounds for the 42nd triple-double of his career, and the Denver Nuggets beat the short-handed Houston Rockets 124-111 on Monday night for their first win of the season. Houston dressed nine players against the Nuggets following a two-point overtime loss at Portland in the season opener Saturday. Nuggets: Complete a back-to-back set with their first road game Tuesday night at Sacramento, which handed Denver a 124-122 overtime loss in Wednesday’s season opener.

Here’s what’s happening this week in the Houston-area sports scene. Rockets season continuesThe new Rockets season is underway after the team opened in Portland on Saturday and suffered a 2-point loss in overtime. The Texans will get a chance to play spoiler when they host the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium. The Titans hit the final week needing a win as they battle for the AFC South crown with the Colts. High school football playoffsThe countdown to a state championship continues this week across Texas.

(AP Photo/Steve Dykes)PORTLAND, Ore. – CJ McCollum scored 44 points, including a 3-pointer with 6.3 seconds left that gave the Portland Trail Blazers a 128-126 win over the Houston Rockets on Saturday night. Lillard’s layup pushed the Blazers ahead 125-123 with 30 seconds left in overtime, but Harden made a 3 to push the Rockets ahead with 15.3 seconds left. Then with 6.3 seconds left, the ball found McCollum again and the Blazers’ guard hit another long range shot putting Portland ahead 128-126. After Wood cut the Blazers lead to 123-120 with a layup, Harden tied the game again at 123 with 38.6 seconds left. Harden responded with a basket of his own to tie it again at 113 with 38.9 seconds left.

(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)NEW YORK – James Harden will be in quarantine until Friday, meaning the Houston Rockets star could be eligible to play Saturday when his team is to finally open its season in Portland. The Rockets were scheduled to play Wednesday against Oklahoma City, a game postponed for a variety of coronavirus issues. Among them was Harden declared unavailable to play after the NBA determined he violated the league's health and safety protocols. Under NBA rules, a team needs eight healthy players to play, and the Rockets were one short Wednesday. The league was still reviewing to see if any other quarantine decisions were needed for other Rockets players.

Houston Rockets' James Harden controls the ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the San Antonio Spurs in Houston, Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020. (Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo via AP)HOUSTON – The NBA has postponed the Houston Rockets game against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to health and safety concerns, according to a release. “Three Houston Rockets players have returned tests that were either positive or inconclusive for coronavirus under the NBA’s testing program. Following the contract tracing protocols, four other players are quarantined at this time,” the NBA stated in a press release. According to the NBA, all other Rockets players were tested again Wednesday, and all returned negative results.

This seasons NBA MVP has won the award before. (AP Photo/Nell Redmond, File)HOUSTON – James Harden was fined $50,000 Wednesday night for violating a COVID-19 protocol, according to the NBA. On Wednesday morning, ESPN first reported the NBA was investigating social media videos that place Harden at a party Monday night in Houston, where Harden was pictured maskless. According to ESPN, if the NBA can verify the pictures of Harden are indeed from Monday’s party, the Rockets star could miss the game due to the league’s COVID-19 protocol rules. Harden recently missed the first few days of Rockets training camp, while partying with rapper Lil Baby in both Atlanta and Las Vegas.

FILE - In this Dec. 15, 2017, file photo, Charlotte Hornets associate head coach Stephen Silas argues a call during the first half of the team's NBA basketball game against the Miami Heat in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton, File)HOUSTON – It took 20 years in his journey and Wednesday night Stephen Silas finally gets to enjoy his debut as an NBA Head Coach when he leads the Rockets against the Mavericks at Toyota Center to tip off the new season. The Rockets have had a good preseason but one filled with drama as the James Harden storyline plays out. WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT STEPHEN SILAS? His stamp was all over last season’s Dallas Mavericks team that were the best offensive team in the NBA.

Here’s what’s happening this week in the Houston area sports scene. Rockets set to tip off new seasonThe Rockets preseason is now complete wrapping up four games against the Bulls and Spurs. Texans set to return homeThe Texans fell to 4-10 on the season with the loss Sunday at Indianapolis 27-20. Houston returns home for their final two games this Sunday against the Bengals and Jan. 3 at NRG against the Titans. Expect games on Wednesday and Saturday throughout Houston and surrounding areas.

HOUSTON – Hello from the KPRC Channel 2 Xfinity Sports Desk! Here’s what’s happening this week in the Houston area sports scene! ROCKETS CONTINUE PRESEASON AT HOMEThe Rockets preseason is underway and after two games under new Head Coach Stephen Silas they are 1-1. The team continues to be without James Harden who is in Covid protocol and continues his process to be cleared. TEXANS HIT THE ROAD AGAINThe Texans were embarrassed in Chicago by the Bears 36-7 on Sunday to fall to 4-9 on the season.

A Falcon 9 rocket at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station Launch Complex 40 with the SiriusXM-7 satellite ready for launch. (Image: SpaceX)CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – SpaceX is preparing for the launch of the SXM-7 mission from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral. The Falcon 9 first stage rocket booster supporting this launch previously supported Crew Dragon’s first flight to the International Space Station (Demo-1), launch of the RADARSAT Constellation Mission and four Starlink launches in 2020. Following stage separation, SpaceX will land Falcon 9′s first stage on the “Just Read the Instructions” droneship, which will be located in the Atlantic Ocean. SpaceX said half of Falcon 9′s fairing previously supported the ANASIS-II mission in July 2020.

HOUSTON – Houston Rockets star James Harden has returned to Space City. Rockets coach Stephen Silas said during a news conference Tuesday that his standout guard underwent a coronavirus test before being allowed to join the team for practice. Harden made headlines Sunday when he failed to show up to Rockets practice and Silas said he hadn’t heard from him. However, on Monday, Silas said that while Harden was not allowed to practice with the team, he was expecting him for an individual workout sometime in the evening. The Rockets first preseason game is again the Chicago Bulls on Friday night, but it’s not clear if Harden will be suiting up.

Here’s what we can expect this week in sports. As we head into the playoffs, several local teams are heating up both on the volleyball court and the football field. Whether it’s the undefeated Dobie Longhorn football team or the ladies of Klein volleyball, we’ll be tracking local teams this week as always. Last week was rough for the Texans, as both Will Fuller and Bradley Roby were popped for PEDs. The team now sits at 4-8 and looks to bounce back against Chicago on the road.

To celebrate his friend rapper Lil Baby’s 26th birthday this week, Harden gifted him a Prada duffle bag filled with goodies, TMZ reports. Lil Baby shared a video showing off his pricey gifts from the Rockets player on Instagram. “A Prada bag ‘cause he proud of me [and] full of honey buns with a honey bun, you know what I’m saying?” he said in an Instagram video. Included in the $300,000 designer gift bag, honey bun pastries surrounded by a bundle of hundreds referred to in the video as a “honey bun,” which is slang for $100,000, TMZ reports. Lil Baby also received a Richard Mille watch worth $200,000, totaling the value of Harden’s gift to him at approximately $600,000.

HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets released their schedule for the first half of the 2020-21 NBA season. The first half of the schedule is comprised of 37 games with 18 at the Toyota Center and 19 on the road. The second half of the schedule will be released towards the latter portion of the first half. Check out our schedule for the first half of the 2020-21 NBA season! All games will be available on the radio broadcast home of the Houston Rockets, SportsTalk 790 KBME and NewsRadio 740 KTRH.

HOUSTON – Need a job? Go work for James Harden. His upcoming restaurant is hiring. Thirteen by James Harden is hosting job fairs to fill more than 100 positions. The job fairs will be held on Thursday and Friday from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. each day at 1923 Washington Ave.

Wall returns to the NBA after suffering a torn Achilles during the 2018 season. He sat out 2019 and opted out of this past season. In 573 career games with 561 starts for the Wizards, he averaged 19 points, 9.2 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.7 steals. Wall earned All-NBA Third Team honors in 2016-17 and was named All-Defensive Second Team in 2014-15. During his lone season at Kentucky in 2009-10, Wall was teammates with recently signed Rockets center DeMarcus Cousins.

HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets on Wednesday unveiled their “City” jerseys for the upcoming season and they feature colors that are reminiscent of the Oilers. Dropping the news in a video tweeted at 7:13, the announcement featured images of the Astrodome, Houston’s freeways, oil rigs, rockets, the Rockets championship wins and Clutch. Our 20-21 City uniform has arrived! pic.twitter.com/glxiuZtQX4 — Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 3, 2020That tweet was followed by images of the uniform and another video. H-Town, this one's for you 🤘 pic.twitter.com/yfWTwWtxWL — Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 3, 2020The blue, white and red uniforms are reminding a lot of people of the colors worn by the Houston Oilers -- the city’s NFL team from 1960 to 1996.

All rights reserved)HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets are trading Russell Westbrook to the Washington Wizards. — Houston Sports Pain (@HoustonHomer1) December 3, 2020😳😢 I love Westbrook but I totally understand why he wanted to leave. https://t.co/58wiPQOveY — ladyeagles (@brownlq) December 3, 2020So like when the Wizards front office is over Westbrook in 2 years then what? — Barack Oganja (@_RodTheGod_) December 3, 2020Houston rocket fans cheering on Westbrook is if Jordan came back and signed with the Lakers and lebron and Jordan fans had to cheer one another on — OKC 2021 Draft Winner (@whocanstopus2) December 3, 2020Westbrook trade grade: F- - - - -. Rockets get a worse Westbrook and wizards traded their future for a star in his prime.

Houston Rockets' Russell Westbrook (0) goes up for a shot as Oklahoma City Thunder's Nerlens Noel, right, defends during the second half of an NBA first-round playoff basketball game in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2020. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets have traded Russell Westbrook to the Washington Wizards. Adrian Wojnarowski said in a tweet that the Rockets got John Wall and a first-round pick in 2023 in the deal. NBA sources confirm to me #Rockets have traded Russell Westbrook to the #Wizards for G John Wall and a 2023 protected 1st Rd pick. @KPRC2 — Randy McIlvoy (@KPRC2RandyMc) December 3, 2020Houston has agreed to trade Russell Westbrook to Washington for John Wall and a first-round pick, sources tell ESPN.

HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets and Second Servings of Houston came together to serve over 1,000 families Thursday. Presented by Kroger, “Thanksgiving’s on Us” is a contactless drive-thru distribution that focuses on providing perishable and non-perishable Thanksgiving-themed items to Houstonians in need for the holiday. “We know Thanksgiving will look different for so many Houstonians this holiday season,” said Rockets Community Relations Director Sarah Joseph. “This is like a blessing for the community and to give a Thanksgiving meal to a family means so much,” said Sharon Houston. This year marked the third food distribution between the Houston Rockets and Second Servings of Houston.

The Houston Rockets and Second Servings of Houston hosting “Thanksgiving’s On Us” food distribution | HOUSTON LIFE | KPRC 2Published: November 18, 2020, 5:11 pmThe Houston Rockets and Second Servings of Houston are hosting a “Thanksgiving’s On Us” food distribution tomorrow, right outside of the Toyota Center. This contactless event is free, and open to the public from 10am – 12pm.

HOUSTON – The clock is ticking down towards the start of a new training camp and the status of Rockets stars James Harden and Russell Westbrook remains unclear. Russell Westbrook also would like to be traded but his primary focus, even if he remains in Houston, is to be the main piece on offense. Alongside Harden that was not the case this past season and won’t be that way moving forward as long as both are in Houston. The Rockets are in no hurry to deal either player and are more than willing to proceed to camp and the season without making a move. Training camp is set to open on December first.

HOUSTON – The clock is officially ticking down towards Wednesday’s NBA draft and finally, the Rockets will have a draft pick after being left out the last three years. The initial pick will come on Wednesday when the Rockets use the Blazers slot at #16 overall. Meanwhile, the future of James Harden continues to earn national headlines. KPRC 2 Sports Director Randy McIlvoy confirmed that the Rockets offered Harden a two-year extension worth $103 million, but Harden quickly turned it down. That team, according to sources, is the Brooklyn Nets, where he would be paired alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

Girls Basketball is in full swing, and the San Antonio area schools have a lot to prove coming out of a fantastic 2019-2020 season. 2 San Antonio Reagan (District 28) went undefeated in district last year with a record of 14-0.This was the first time since 1999 for the Reagan Rattlers. 7 San Antonio Clark (District 28) advanced to the Area finals in 2020 after coming off a great district finish. 9 San Antonio Wagner (District 27) takes a jump up from 5A to 6A this year, but have the talent to compete. Photo By VYPE Bradley CollierOther Area UIL 5A Teams To Watch (No particular order): San Antonio Madison (Featuring: Danielle Esquibel, & Dallasstar Johnson) East Central (Featuring: Alanis Macias & Asia Prudhomme) San Antonio Holmes (Featuring: Amethyst Gutierrez) San Antonio Stevens (Featuring: Semaj Adams) Warren (Featuring: Vivianna Solis & Julianna Ledezma) MacArthur (Featuring: Nicole Wallace, Aimee Quan & Amara Defoe)For more sports coverage, follow VYPE (VYPE Texas Facebook and @VYPESATX Instagram/Twitter) on social media.

NAIROBI – Rockets were fired at Eritrea's capital on Saturday, diplomats said, as the deadly fighting in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region appeared to spill across an international border and bring some of observers' worst fears to life. At least three rockets appeared to be aimed at the airport in Eritrea's capital, Asmara, hours after the Tigray regional government warned it might attack. It has accused Eritrea of attacking it at the invitation of Ethiopia's federal government since the conflict in northern Ethiopia erupted on Nov. 4. Eritrea is one of the world's most reclusive countries, and no one on the ground, including the information ministry, could immediately be reached. Tigray regional officials did not respond to requests for comment.

HOUSTON – He was a former first round draft choice of the Rockets over 40 years ago so it’s only fitting that John Lucas will remain with the organization after the off-season changes. Lucas, who has been the Rockets director of player development, will remain on staff as an assistant under new Rockets Head Coach Stephen Silas. Lucas was on the short list as well along with Jeff Van Gundy in the search before the team settled on hiring Silas. Lucas is highly regarded within the team and well respected by the Rockets players. Silas will address the media for the first time in a virtual zoom video call Thursday afternoon.

Halloween is the chance for creativity to show. During a pandemic, there may not be traditional celebrations, but folks still want to dress up. Here are some Houston athletes and their families:Justin VerlanderJustin Verlander and wife Kate Upton did it big: Verlander as Captain Hook, Upton as Peter Pan, their daughter as Tinker Bell, Upton’s mom as Wendy, and their dog as the gator! Russell WestbrookRussell Westbrook and his wife took the Sesame Street route. Their son went as Woody, and their daughters as Moana!

HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets are in the final stages of their search for a new head coach. KPRC 2 Sports has confirmed an ESPN report that team officials are in advanced talks with Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Stephen Silas. Silas will take over for Mike D’Antoni who decided to leave the organization when his contract expired at the end of the season. Silas, 46, was on the Rockets' shortlist, which included former Rockets head coach Jeff Van Gundy and longtime Rockets coach and former player John Lucas. Silas is highly respected in NBA circles after serving in assistant roles for 20 years, including his most recent record-setting run offensively in Dallas under Mavs head coach Rick Carlisle.

Here’s what the KPRC team is watching as the week beginsTEXANS - POTENTIAL TRADES? Yes, former head coach and general manager Bill O’Brien is gone; but the damage done from trades and odd roster choices is still evident every Sunday. With the loss to the Packers, the Texans enter their BYE week; usually a week of rest. ROCKETS - NEW HEAD COACH? Keeping George Springer will be expensive, so General Manager James Click has some decisions to make.