This is a chance to post your best memories of Rudy T, both as a player and a coach. My favorite memory was from 1995. The Rockets went 1-5 against San Antonio that year during the regular season, but that one win came on a last second shot by Vernon Maxwell. I remember Rudy running around the court in jubilation with his fists in the air. He didn't even know where he was going, he was so happy... Final numbers: regular season: 503-397 post season: 51-39 Next stop: Springfield, Mass.
My favorite memory of Rudy is when he lead us to both champion ship rings... but most of all his speech from the win over Orlando. "Don't ever underestimate the heart of a champion" We'll miss you Rudy, I know I will. Best of luck to you.
Rudy did a lot for the Rockets, as a player and then as a coach. Getting Hakeem to trust his teamates was the biggest thing that he did. Rudy, you are a class act, good luck. DD
I'm gonna miss you Rudy. I really wish he had gotten another year. My best memory of him is him throwing both of his arms back and yelling at the top of his lungs after we won our second championship. I think its a big mistake letting this guy go. I used to bash Rudy like anything in about 98-99, but realized he is not the one on the court half-assing during the game. I've met him in person like two to three times and he is just about the nicest celebrity one can ever hope to meet. Good luck Rudy!
I was never more impressed than when the Hakeem situation was deteriorating so badly around him and Dream made some mean comments about Rudy, who found out about them live on the radio. He was obviously shocked and hurt, but he handled it with such incredible class. A few minutes later Dream phoned in and they had a very public "mend the fences" session. That event cemented Rudy in my mind as one of the classiest people in all of sports.
Rudy has overcome so much. Child of an alcohoholic "The Punch" Battle with alcoholism himself Battle with exhaustion Having to leave the team to battle his toughest enemy to date From assistant coach to 2 NBA titles in 4 years. No coach in the NBA, NONE, wear their heart on their sleeve like Rudy does. I feel like going to The Summitt and camping out by the sign near the freeway with a "Honk if You Love Rudy!!!!" sign. Anyone up for it?
Literally the first thing that flashed through my mind when I heard this was "I hope Rudy T is ok". I hope this is just a case of Rudy stepping down to devote more time to getting better and not something serious. Get well soon Rudy and you are loved and appreciated by Rockets fans!
Thanks Rudy for taking us to the top and sticking with us when we hit rock bottom.. I, for one, have never underestimated your heart! Best of luck!
Damn, I still cant believe this is happening. Its kinda like Dream leaving the Rockets. You just can't picture this franchise without picturing either one of them. I say the team should also put a statue of Rudy T outside of the arena to honor him. "The best coach in team history standing next to the best player in team history" ....................Atleast he will still be involved with the Rockets in some form or fashion instead of going to another team......................GL Rudy, Your position on the bench will be missed........
WE LOVE YOU RUDY. Get well. Godspeed. Best wishes. If you want to coach in the NBA again, I hope that happens. (But you better not lead that team in victories against your former team! )
Thanks for the memories, Rudy T. You've always been a classy guy, and we're all going to miss you. It's just not going to be the same without you on the sidelines. Believe It
