The Houston Rockets were ousted yet again by the Golden State Warriors in the playoffs — marking the second straight year that Houston has lost to Golden State in a critical home game in the playoffs.
Despite another demoralizing playoff loss, however, Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta remains optimistic and promises that the team will win a championship with James Harden.
“James is 30 years old. Michael Jordan didn't win his first championship until 30. Hakeem Olajuwon didn't win his first championship until 30,”Fertitta told Chris Walder of The Score. “I can promise you we're going to win some championships with James Harden. We're not going to sit here, we will go to battle every year, we're going to have a strong offseason, and we're going to do whatever we can do to be a better team. We're not going to sit on our hands, we can promise you that.”
Despite those claims, Fertitta’s first year of ownership was typified by cost-cutting moves and slashing payroll so that the team doesn’t have to pay the luxury tax. Though Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey is highly regarded for his brilliant skills as a front office tactician, an owner that doesn’t allow you to pay the tax is a major hindrance for a team that is literally in title contention right now.
Also, Michael Jordan was actually in his prime at age 28 when he won his first NBA title with the Chicago Bulls in 1991, but the point still holds on that front.
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