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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Ben DuBose

Rockets pay respects to late Robert Reid, who passed away Monday

Robert Reid, a former NBA player best known for his 10 seasons with the Houston Rockets, has died. He was 68 years old.

Reid played in college at St. Mary’s University before being selected by the Rockets in the second round of the 1977 NBA draft.

“It is with great sorrow that my family and I received the news of the passing of Rockets legend, Robert Reid,” owner Tilman J. Fertitta said in a statement released on Tuesday. “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,” Fertitta said in a statement issued by the team. “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.”

Fox 26 Houston, which initially reported Reid’s passing, said Reid passed away peacefully at his Houston home on Monday, Feb. 19, after a battle with cancer. Regarding his career, Fox 26 writes:

Standing 6-foot-8 and weighing 205 pounds, Reid rose to prominence as a versatile forward/guard during a 13-year career in the league. Known for his athleticism and defensive abilities, he played a significant role in the Rockets’ lineup during the early 1980s, contributing to the team’s success in multiple playoff appearances.

In 1982, Reid decided to retire from professional basketball despite being at the peak of his career. He prioritized his personal beliefs and returned to church, leaving behind a lucrative contract and the fame associated with being a professional athlete. He eventually returned to the league after missing the sport.

After retirement, Reid remained active in his community and dedicated himself to charitable causes.

Reid’s first retirement didn’t last long. He returned to the Rockets ahead of the 1983-84 season.

Reid was a consistent rotation player for the Rockets — and a double-figure scorer, on average — during the 1980-81 and 1985-86 seasons, which resulted in the first two Western Conference championships and NBA Finals berths in franchise history.

Over 10 seasons with the Rockets, Reid averaged 11.6 points (46.7% FG), 4.9 rebounds and 3 assists in 28.5 minutes per game. He retired as a player after the NBA’s 1990-91 season.

Read on for further reaction from the team and its followers, as well as highlights from Reid’s distinguished NBA career.

Rockets statement on Robert Reid

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 team to its first two NBA Finals appearances in 1980-81 and 1985-86.

As a valued member of the Rockets family, Robert will be greatly missed. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathies are extended to his wife Diana, his children Robert Jr., Keva, Crystal, Jana, and all those who cherished him.

Robert Reid, Game 1 of 1981 NBA Finals

Robert Reid, Game 6 of 1981 NBA Finals

Robert Reid interview on his Houston career

Social media reaction to Robert Reid’s death

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