Rockets Daryl Morey talks NBA return, Rudy T, NBA draft, and more

Rudy Tomjanovich’s Hall of Fame induction

Rockets famed coach Rudy Tomjanovich finally got his due justice, as he was inducted in the Basketball Hall of Fame, despite waiting decades to get in. Rudy T’s two NBA titles should have been a lock, as those are more than seven Hall of Fame coaches, and the same number as two Hall of Fame coaches.

Rudy has handled it all with class, which shows his true character. We never heard a peep about Tomjanovich complaining or griping about the endless snub, even though he had every reason to. Morey was asked his thoughts on Tomjanovich getting into the Hall of Fame and offered the below response.

Rudy making it was amazing. I’ve especially been impressed with all the things Rudy did with the Rockets within the past year to change their minds.

Still don’t get how it took so long. I mean the man had Hall of Fame careers in multiple areas so it’s been a surprise. Not sure what took so long but I’m happy he got in.

Morey’s response was classic, as we don’t know why Rudy T made the cut this year after being left off the ballot last year entirely. As Morey mentioned, Rudy had a great playing career, as he ranks fourth all-time in Houston Rockets franchise history in points scored.

Rudy also ranks fourth in franchise history in total win shares, behind only Hakeem Olajuwon, James Harden, and Calvin Murphy, with Olajuwon and Murphy both being Hall of Famers, and Harden bound to be inducted when he’s done playing.

Rudy T spent his entire 11 year playing career with the Rockets and averaged 17.4 points and 8.1 rebounds, after being selected with the second overall pick of the 1970 NBA Draft. All in all, the wait was well worth it, as Rudy T finally entered basketball’s elite club.

Next: NBA return