The Houston Rockets, a team synonymous with great scorers, have seen some of the all-time legends grace their roster across different eras. From icons like Rudy Tomjanovich and Elvin Hayes in the 1970s to modern-day stars like James Harden, the Rockets have a rich history of scoring prowess. However, towering above all these greats is none other than Hakeem Olajuwon, the franchise’s leading scorer.
Hakeem Olajuwon, also known as “The Dream,” has left an indelible mark on the Rockets’ record books. Leading the team in points, steals, rebounds, and blocks, Olajuwon was the driving force behind the Rockets’ back-to-back NBA championships in 1994 and 1995, earning himself the title of NBA MVP in 1994. His 26,511 points rank him 15th all-time, but with current players like James Harden, Russell Westbrook, and Stephen Curry hot on his trail, Olajuwon’s reign may soon be challenged.
Speaking of Harden, or “The Beard,” he has cemented himself as one of the elite players of the 2010s and 2020s. His time with the Rockets saw him reach new heights, earning an All-Star nod in each of his nine seasons in Houston, along with an MVP award and three scoring titles. While Harden may have moved on to the Clippers, his impact on Houston basketball will not be forgotten anytime soon.
For younger fans who may not be familiar with the playing days of Rudy Tomjanovich, his coaching success with the Rockets during their title runs is well-documented. However, as a player, Tomjanovich was no slouch either, boasting a five-time All-Star selection and averaging over 20 points per game in multiple seasons with the franchise. His No. 45 jersey hangs proudly in the rafters in Houston, a testament to his contributions on the court.
Then there’s Elvin Hayes, fondly known as “The Big E,” who had two standout stints with the Rockets over his 16-year career. Hayes made an immediate impact, earning All-Star nods in each of his first four seasons and leading the league in scoring with 28.4 points per game as a rookie. Despite his stellar rookie campaign, Hayes ultimately played second fiddle to Wes Unseld, who not only clinched Rookie of the Year honors but also MVP in one of the greatest rookie seasons in NBA history.
In a franchise filled with scoring legends, from Olajuwon to Harden, Tomjanovich to Hayes, the Houston Rockets have seen their fair share of iconic players etch their names in basketball lore. As the current crop of stars vies to carve out their spot in Rockets history, one thing remains certain – Houston will always be a haven for scoring greatness.