In a monumental moment for Houston basketball, Rudy Tomjanovich, the beloved former player and legendary coach, is officially returning to the Houston Rockets—this time, as co-owner of the franchise he helped define for generations.
The announcement came earlier today from current Rockets owner Tilman J. Fertitta, who confirmed that the Fertitta family has finalized a historic partnership with Tomjanovich. The move not only brings a Houston sports icon back into the fold but also marks a deeply symbolic turning point for the franchise as it seeks to restore its championship identity.
“This is more than a business decision—it’s a reunion with family,” said Fertitta during a press conference held at Toyota Center. “Rudy T. is the heart and soul of the Rockets. He’s been a player, a coach, a champion—and now, he’ll help lead us into the future as an owner.”
Tomjanovich, who starred for the Rockets from 1970 to 1981 as a power forward and small forward, is best known for coaching the team to back-to-back NBA championships in 1994 and 1995. His rallying cry—“Don’t ever underestimate the heart of a champion!”—has become forever etched in the DNA of Houston sports.
Now 76, Tomjanovich expressed gratitude and excitement at rejoining the franchise in such a pivotal capacity.
“I’ve lived and breathed Rockets basketball my entire life,” he said. “To come back, not just to support, but to help shape the future of this team—it’s an incredible honor. We’ve built greatness here before, and we’re going to do it again.”
The deal includes equity in the team and an executive advisory role. Tomjanovich will work closely with front office leadership and player development, offering strategic guidance rooted in decades of championship-level experience.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement calling the move “a powerful and inspiring chapter in the league’s history,” praising the Rockets for honoring their legacy while investing in their future.
Rockets fans, many of whom grew up watching Rudy T. on the sidelines during the team’s golden era, are celebrating the news across social media. The hashtags #RudyReturns, #ForeverARocket, and #HeartOfAChampion are already trending across Houston.
As the team rebuilds around a young core and eyes a return to playoff contention, having one of the most respected minds in basketball history back in the building brings renewed optimism—and a powerful sense of homecoming.
“I never really left,” Tomjanovich said with a smile. “This city, this team, this community—it’s in my blood. Let’s bring the glory back.”