# Houston Rockets: Top Players of the 21st Century Season by Season
The Houston Rockets, a storied franchise in the NBA, have had their fair share of talented players in the 21st century. This era has seen a mix of superstars, emerging talents, and significant moments that shaped the team’s identity. Here’s a look at the top players for each season, showcasing their contributions and impact.
2000-2001: Steve Francis
The early 2000s were defined by the dynamic play of Steve Francis, who was the centerpiece of the Rockets’ offense. In his second season, Francis averaged 17.6 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game, earning an All-Star nod. His explosive athleticism and scoring ability made him a fan favorite and set the tone for the team’s future.
2001-2002: Yao Ming
Yao Ming entered the NBA in 2002 and immediately changed the landscape for the Rockets. The 7’6″ center became an All-Star in his second season, averaging 18.4 points and 8.2 rebounds. Yao’s presence in the paint not only transformed the Rockets’ offense but also brought a global following to the franchise.
2002-2003: Yao Ming
Continuing his ascent, Yao solidified his status as a superstar in 2003, averaging 17.5 points and 9.0 rebounds. His ability to stretch the floor with shooting and dominate inside made him a dual threat. The Rockets began to build around Yao, indicating a new era of competitive basketball in Houston.
2003-2004: Tracy McGrady
In 2004, Tracy McGrady joined the Rockets, and his impact was immediate. McGrady averaged 24.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, showcasing his scoring prowess. His highlight-reel performances and clutch shooting made him a fan favorite, and he helped elevate the team’s profile in the league.
2004-2005: Tracy McGrady
McGrady continued to shine in 2005, earning a spot on the All-NBA First Team while averaging 27.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. His iconic 13 points in 35 seconds against the San Antonio Spurs remains one of the most memorable moments in Rockets history.
2005-2006: Tracy McGrady
In his third season with the Rockets, McGrady battled injuries but still managed to average 24.6 points and 6.0 assists. Despite a challenging season, his talent was undeniable, and he remained the focal point of the Rockets’ offense.
2006-2007: Yao Ming
Yao returned to form in 2007, averaging 25.0 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. He was selected to the All-Star Game for the third consecutive year. His ability to dominate both ends of the floor made him indispensable to the team’s success.
## 2007-2008: Yao Ming
Yao had one of his best seasons in 2008, averaging 22.0 points and 10.8 rebounds, leading the Rockets to a 55-win season. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ allowed the Rockets to compete at a high level, although injuries would later plague his career.
2008-2009: Ron Artest
The addition of Ron Artest in 2009 brought a new edge to the Rockets. Artest averaged 17.1 points and played a key role in the team’s playoff run, known for his defensive tenacity and versatility. His grit complemented Yao and McGrady, giving the Rockets a formidable trio.
2009-2010: Kevin Martin
After trading for Kevin Martin, the Rockets saw his scoring ability elevate the offense. Martin averaged 23.5 points and became the primary scoring option, showcasing his smooth shooting and offensive versatility. His arrival marked a shift towards a more perimeter-oriented game.
2010-2011: Luis Scola
Luis Scola emerged as a key player in 2011, averaging 18.3 points and 8.2 rebounds. His skill in the post and mid-range game made him a reliable scorer and leader on the floor, representing the Rockets’ resilience during a rebuilding phase.
2011-2012: James Harden
In a mid-season trade, the Rockets acquired James Harden, who quickly established himself as the team’s cornerstone. Although he only played part of the season, he averaged 25.9 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.9 rebounds, hinting at his future dominance.
2012-2013: James Harden
Harden fully embraced his role in 2013, leading the team with 25.9 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game. His unique style of play, combining isolation with playmaking, made the Rockets a playoff contender and transformed them into one of the league’s most exciting teams.
2013-2014: Dwight Howard
The Rockets signed Dwight Howard in 2013, and he immediately impacted the team’s success. Howard averaged 18.3 points and 12.2 rebounds, providing a dominant presence in the paint. His defensive prowess complemented Harden’s offensive game, forming a dynamic duo.
2014-2015: James Harden
In 2015, Harden solidified his status as one of the league’s elite players, averaging 27.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 6.9 assists. He led the Rockets to the playoffs and was a finalist for the MVP award. His leadership and scoring ability made him the focal point of Houston’s offense.
2015-2016: James Harden
Harden continued his dominance, averaging 29.0 points, 11.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds. His unique skill set and ability to create for himself and others transformed the Rockets into a high-octane offensive machine, breaking records along the way.
2016-2017: James Harden
Harden’s MVP season saw him average a staggering 29.1 points, 11.2 assists, and 8.1 rebounds. His ability to manipulate defenses and create opportunities for teammates revolutionized the Rockets’ offensive strategy, making them one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
2017-2018: James Harden
In 2018, Harden had one of the greatest individual seasons in NBA history, averaging 30.4 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.4 rebounds. He led the Rockets to a franchise-record 65 wins and secured his MVP award, solidifying his legacy in Houston.
2018-2019: James Harden
Harden continued to shine in 2019, leading the league with 36.1 points per game. His scoring prowess and ability to draw fouls kept him at the forefront of the NBA. Despite playoff disappointments, Harden’s brilliance was undeniable.
2019-2020: James Harden
In the pandemic-shortened season, Harden averaged 34.3 points, 7.5 assists, and 6.5 rebounds. His incredible scoring ability kept the Rockets competitive as they adapted to a small-ball strategy under head coach Mike D’Antoni.
2020-2021: John Wall
After trading for John Wall, the former All-Star showcased his talent despite injuries. Wall averaged 20.6 points and 6.9 assists, bringing playmaking and leadership to a rebuilding Rockets team.
2021-2022: Jalen Green
As a rookie, Jalen Green quickly emerged as a standout player for the Rockets. Averaging 17.3 points per game, his athleticism and scoring ability provided a glimpse into the team’s future and excitement for fans.
2022-2023: Alperen Şengün
Alperen Şengün began to make waves in 2023, showcasing his skills as a versatile big man. Averaging 14.8 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, Şengün demonstrated the potential to become a cornerstone of the Rockets’ rebuilding efforts.
Conclusion
The Houston Rockets have seen a variety of top-tier talent throughout the 21st century, from Steve Francis and Yao Ming to James Harden and emerging stars like Jalen Green. Each player has left an indelible mark on the franchise, contributing to its rich history and setting the stage for future success. As the Rockets continue to evolve, their legacy of great players will undoubtedly guide the way forward.
