When the Rockets open their 2021-22 season at home on Tuesday night, it will also mark the debut of new television analyst Ryan Hollins on Houston’s broadcast partner, AT&T SportsNet Southwest.
Hollins, who played in the NBA for a decade, is replacing Matt Bullard in the chair next to play-by-play announcer Craig Ackerman. Bullard moved into a front-office role with the Rockets earlier this offseason.
To reflect on the transition, Ryan Hollins spoke with colleague Cayleigh Griffin, who is returning as AT&T SportsNet’s courtside reporter with the Rockets for a third consecutive season. His comments:
It’s the opportunity of a lifetime. AT&T is a first-class network, and the Rockets are a first-class organization with a rich tradition of championships and winning. I’m ecstatic.
This is a golden time in Houston basketball. You’ve got some of the most young, excitable talent in the league. I can’t think of a roster that I’ve seen this young in a very long time with this amount of talent. You may not see it indicated in the wins and losses columns, but you’re going to see some plays — some 3-pointers, some alley-oops, some lobs and dunks this season that are going to be absolutely memorable. You get a chance to see these guys come into their own and grow. This is going to be a very long, but a very, very fun season, I guarantee you that.
For Hollins and the Rockets, whose 2021-22 roster includes prized rookies Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, the journey begins with Tuesday night’s preseason opener versus Washington. Tipoff is set for 7:00 p.m. Central from Toyota Center, with AT&T SportsNet airing the game.
🚀🏀 @HoustonRockets IS HERE!!!🚀🏀
And our @cayleighgriffin is excited to introduce you to the newest member of our broadcast team @TheRyanHollins
Join Cayleigh, Ryan & @ca_rockets all season long on AT&T SportsNet starting this Tuesday pic.twitter.com/uexxQ6XJ2L
— AT&T SportsNet SW (@ATTSportsNetSW) October 3, 2021
