Every NBA team’s Mount Rushmore
By Ian Levy
Houston Rockets
Hakeem Olajuwon was one of the most skilled big men to ever play in the NBA. A true two-way force, Olajuwon won an MVP and two Defensive Player of the Year Awards for Houston. He led the team to back-to-back titles in 1994 and 1995, winning Finals MVP both times. He is still the Rockets all-time leader in a slew of statistical categories, including games, minutes, points, rebounds, steals and blocks.
Moses Malone was a physical force, one of the most dominant rebounders in NBA history. He only played five full seasons in Houston but it was one of the longer and more productive stops in his lengthy career. Malone won two MVP awards with the Rockets and only Olajuwon has more rebounds in franchise history.
Calvin Murphy made the most of his 5-foot-9 frame and became one of the most accomplished little guys in NBA history during his Hall-of-Fame career. He played 12 seasons in Houston and only Olajuwon has scored more points in franchise history.
Yao Ming had his career cut short by injury, which is why you won’t find his name splashed across the team’s record books. Still, his giant frame and warm personality helped bring millions of Chinese fans to the NBA and make the Rockets an international brand.