History of Houston Rockets in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 20, 2025

The Houston Rockets are a professional basketball team based in Houston, competing in the NBA's Western Conference. Originally founded in 1967 as the San Diego Rockets, the team relocated to Houston in 1971. They play their home games at the Toyota Center in Downtown Houston. The Rockets have won two NBA championships and four Western Conference titles.

July 13, 2013: Dwight Howard Signs with the Rockets

On July 13, 2013, free agent center Dwight Howard officially signed with the Houston Rockets, joining James Harden to form a new inside-out combination expected to contend for a title.

April 15, 2015: Rockets Claim Southwest Division Title

On April 15, 2015, the Houston Rockets defeated the Jazz to secure their first Southwest Division title and first Division crown since 1994, finishing with the third-best regular-season record in franchise history at 56 wins.

April 7, 2019: Rockets Set Record for Combined Two-Pointers and Three-Pointers

On April 7, 2019, the Houston Rockets became the first team in NBA history to make 25+ two-pointers and 25+ three-pointers in the same game against the Phoenix Suns, also achieving a significant point differential over their last four opponents.

December 2020: Westbrook Traded for Wall

In December 2020, the Houston Rockets traded Russell Westbrook to the Washington Wizards in exchange for John Wall and a lottery-protected first-round pick, continuing a period of significant roster changes.

January 2021: Harden Traded to Nets

In January 2021, James Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in a four-team trade. The Rockets received Victor Oladipo, Rodions Kurucs, Dante Exum, four 1st-round picks, and four 1st-round picks swap in return. This marked a significant shift in the team's direction.