Former guard/forward Robert Reid, who helped the Houston Rockets reach a pair of NBA Finals during the 1980s, has died, the team confirmed Tuesday.
Reid, who was 68 years old, passed away on Monday following a battle with cancer, the Houston Chronicle reported.
“It is with great sorrow that my family and I received the news of the passing of Rockets legend, Robert Reid,” Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta said on X/Twitter. “I have had the privilege of knowing Robert for over 40 years, and his presence always brought joy and positivity to any room he entered.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, Diana, and all those who held him dear. Robert’s absence will be deeply felt, and he will be fondly remembered.”
A 6-foot-8 swingman, Reid was a second-round pick of the Rockets out of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Tex. in 1977. He spent 10 seasons with the team, not counting a brief retirement during the entire 1982-83 season for religious reasons.
During his time in Houston, Reid averaged 11.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. He helped lead the Rockets to the 1981 and 1986 NBA Finals, where they lost to the Boston Celtics on both occasions.
Reid still ranks in the top 10 in Rockets history in games, steals, points, rebounds, blocks and assists.
After leaving Houston, Reid went on to play for the Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers and Philadelphia 76ers before his NBA career concluded in 1991. He also spent time as a coach in the CBA and in Hungary.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Reid’s family, friends and former teammates during this time.