Former Houston Rockets assistant coach and General manager Carroll Dawson passed away at the age of 86. The team announced the news of his death on Monday. He spent nearly three decades with the Rockets from 1980 to 2007, starting as an assistant coach before transitioning to head coach in 1996. He is the only person in franchise history to have served as an assistant coach during each of their four NBA Finals runs, most prominently being the back-to-back championships in 1994 and 1995.
“While CD’s contributions to basketball were remarkable, it was his character that truly stood out. We will deeply miss his uplifting spirit, infectious humor, and kind-hearted nature. We are proud that CD’s legacy will forever be honored with his banner hanging from the rafters of Toyota Center, alongside our other Rockets legends," the Rockets said in a statement.
Dawson expertise
As an assistant, Dawson earned a reputation across the league for his expertise in developing big men. He worked closely with Hall of Famers such as Elvin Hayes, Hakeem Olajuwon, Ralph Sampson, and Moses Malone. His talent for player development seamlessly translated into his role as general manager, where he managed the day-to-day operations of the Rockets’ scouting department. Dawson was the man behind successfully executing trades to acquire stars like Scottie Pippen, Charles Barkley, Cuttino Mobley, and Tracy McGrady, and he was instrumental in drafting Yao Ming in 2002. In 2007, he appointed Daryl Morey as his successor.
That same year, the Rockets honored Dawson by raising a banner with his initials, “CD,” in the rafters of the Toyota Center, celebrating his significant contributions to the team.
Beyond NBA
Dawson’s influence extended beyond the NBA. He played a crucial role in establishing the Houston Comets as a dominant force in the WNBA. As the executive vice president of the organization, he was pivotal in signing legends like Tina Thompson, Cynthia Cooper, and Sheryl Swoopes, and in hiring coach Van Chancellor. The Comets remain the most successful franchise in WNBA history.
“I’m lucky to have the chance to get to know and work with (Dawson). He’s a Houston Rockets legend and someone I learned a lot from, particularly his ability to use humor to make his point and connect with people. That’s a timeless quality that not many people possess and it was cool to get the chance to observe.” Rockets general manager Rafael Stone told The Athletic in a statement.
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