Robert Reid, who spent most of his career with the Rockets, averaged 11.4 points in 919 NBA games from 1978-91.
Robert Reid, a 13-year NBA veteran and key figure on a pair of Houston squads that reached the NBA Finals in the 1980s, has died, the Rockets announced Tuesday via statement. He was 68.
The Rockets selected Reid 40th overall in the 1977 Draft out of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. Excluding a brief retirement for religious reasons during the 1982-83 season, Reid spent the first 10 campaigns of his career in Houston, starting for the 1980-81 team that lost to Boston in the Finals and coming off the bench in 1985-86 as the Rockets suffered another Finals defeat to the Celtics.
The Fertitta Family and the Houston Rockets are deeply saddened by the passing of former player, Robert Reid, whose contributions were instrumental in guiding the Houston Rockets to their first two NBA Finals appearances in 1980-81 and 1985-86. pic.twitter.com/6fc5dyLqDA
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) February 20, 2024
We are saddened by the passing of Robert Reid, who played for us for our first two seasons from 1988-1990 as part of a 13-year NBA career. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends. 💜 pic.twitter.com/Bge3sdqVMz
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) February 20, 2024
Reid enjoyed his best season for that ’80-81 squad, setting career highs in scoring (15.9 points per game), rebounds (7.1) and steals (2.0) while playing alongside future Hall of Famers Moses Malone and Calvin Murphy.
He went on to play for the expansion Charlotte Hornets during their inaugural season in 1988-89, averaging 14.7 points per game, before finishing out his career with Portland Trail Blazers and Philadelphia 76ers.
Reid played in 919 NBA games, averaging 11.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.3 steals while being noted for his solid defense and versatility.
