Longtime Houston Rockets guard/forward Robert Reid has passed away at the age of 68, as confirmed by the team on Tuesday. Reid, who battled cancer, died at his Houston residence on Monday, as reported by the Houston Chronicle.
Robert Reid spent the majority of his 13-year NBA career with the Houston Rockets, playing for the team from 1977 to 1982 and then from 1983 to 1988. He also had stints with the Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Standing at 6-foot-8, Reid boasted career averages of 11.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 919 games, with 366 of those as a starter.
The Houston Rockets organization expressed deep sorrow over Reid's passing, highlighting his pivotal role in leading the team to their first two NBA Finals appearances in 1980-81 and 1985-86.
Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta shared his sentiments, reminiscing about the joy and positivity Reid brought wherever he went. Fertitta also recalled the excitement of watching Reid compete in the NBA Finals during the 1980s.
Robert Reid was drafted by the Houston Rockets in the second round of the 1977 NBA Draft from St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas. He took a hiatus from the sport during the 1982-83 season due to religious reasons.
Reid leaves a lasting legacy with the Rockets, ranking prominently in various statistical categories in the team's history, including games played, steals, points, rebounds, blocks, and assists.
His absence will be deeply felt by the basketball community, and he will be remembered fondly for his contributions to the sport and the Houston Rockets franchise.
