Remembering the Legacy of NBA Veteran Robert Reid: A Tribute to a Defensive Force

In the world of basketball, the death of the legend Robert Reid at 68 is sadly acknowledged by every fan and professional. Robert

Robert Reid in a file photo [credit: instagram@houstonrockets]
By pratik | Feb 22, 2024 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

In the world of basketball, the death of the legend Robert Reid at 68 is sadly acknowledged by every fan and professional. Robert was famous for his defence and adaptability, and Reid was instrumental in leading the Houston Rockets to the NBA Finals in ’81’ and ’86’. His lasting influence on the game and footprint on the Rockets’ victories will never be forgotten by anyone because it has created a huge impact on everyone. With this article, we want to honour Reid’s remarkable career and the enduring imprint he made on basketball.

For 13 years, Robert Reid has brought honour to the NBA court as he was a key player in the Houston Rockets. Straight out of St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, he found his basketball home with the Rockets when he was picked at 40 in the 1977 NBA Draft. He was a starting player in the ”80-’81 season and his team made it to the NBA Finals but got beat by the Celtics, in 1985-86 Reid showed the breadth of his skills from the bench and once more, the Rockets and Celtics clashed in the Finals – another title slipped through their fingers.

A Key Figure and Solid Performances

Reid showed off his defensive prowess and flexibility in his basketball career and his peak season was in 1980-81, posting best-ever numbers with 15.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.0 ball steals every game. He worked with big players in the game like Moses Malone and Calvin Murphy as he was becoming a key piece in the Rockets’ victories that year. Acclaim for his plays on defence and offence branded him a sturdy guard and a team treasure.

Reid, post his Rockets era, moved on to the Charlotte Hornets in their first season, 1988-89. He quickly struck a chord by averaging 14.7 points each game for the Hornets and Reid’s next stops were the Portland Trail Blazers and the Philadelphia 76ers and his NBA journey ended there. His knack for fitting in with various teams demonstrated his commitment and professional approach to basketball.

Robert Reid’s departure has left the basketball world empty because his standing with the Houston Rockets will always be something to remember as Reid showed us his skills on defence, his wide range, and how he could guide his team, the Rockets, to the NBA finals in ’81 and ’86. His job is engraved into the NBA’s past forever. As we, the fans and everyone involved in basketball, look back on what he left behind, we respect his effect on the game. Our condolences are with his family and friends in these tough times.

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