Iconic Houston Rockets commentator Gene Peterson passes at 83

Houston Rockets fans are lucky. Their team has given them a lot of good memories over the years.

Most notably, we're thinking of back-to-back NBA championships in the 90s. Still, the Rockets have given us more than that. Outside of this recent rebuilding phase, the Rockets have been one of the most consistent teams in the league.

Pick your favorite Rockets memory. Depending on your age, there's a decent chance that Gene Peterson was there. He was the Rockets' radio play-by-play commentator from 1975 to 2008.

The Rockets community is devastated to have lost him at 83.

Houston Rockets legend passes away

Peterson was certainly present for those back-to-back titles. If you were there with him, you'll remember his iconic catchphrase:

"How sweet it is".

Yet, that's not all that Peterson was present for. Between 1975 and 2008, he was part of a lot of Rockets basketball. Peterson is burned into the memory of any longtime Rockets fan.

He was also an integral member of the Rockets community. With his passing, they're reeling. Prominent members of the organization like commentator Craig Ackerman and owner Tilman Fertitta are publicly mourning.

"Gene Peterson is and will always be The Voice of the Rockets."

-Craig Ackerman, Houston Rockets commentator

"Today, we say goodbye to my friend and broadcasting legend, Gene Peterson. Gene devoted his life to the Rockets and brought passion and energy towards creating timeless memories for countless fans, including myself. I am forever grateful for the time I knew Gene."

-Tilman Fertitta, Houston Rockets owner

Everyone who knew Peterson was grateful for knowing him. Even those of us who'd never had the privilege of meeting him are grateful for his time on this earth. Peterson's love for the Rockets consistently came through in his commentary. He made good times better simply by calling the game:

What could be sweeter than that?