Ex-Rockets Coach Carroll Dawson Passes Away at 86

Carroll Dawson, the eminent long-time GM and assistant coach of the Houston Rockets passed away at the age of 86, the team confirmed this Monday. He was popularly called 'CD' among the basketball folks. Dawson’s death marks the end of an era for the Houston Rockets and one of the key persons in such an important chapter of this franchise's history.

Dawson’s career with the Rockets lasted two decades; during that time, he played a notable role in developing the team. Starting in 1980 as an assistant coach, Dawson managed to enter the positional leaders on the list of the backroom staff of "Houston," which participated in four NBA finals and managed to win at the high points in 1994 and 1995.

In 1997, Dawson took a new post, becoming the general manager and, in addition, head of the WNBA team Houston Comets, which he did very well.

During his management, the Rockets acquired many big names, including Charles Barkley, Steve Francis, Yao Ming, and Tracy McGrady. His outstanding three-part leadership resulted in the Comets’ supremacy in the WNBA during the late ’90s, accomplishing four straight titles.

Rockets Mourn Dawson

The Rockets organization also issued a statement mourning his loss: "The Rockets family mourns the loss of beloved former coach and general manager Carroll Dawson, affectionately known as 'CD.' For nearly three decades, CD was a cornerstone of our organization, instrumental in shaping the careers of stars like Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson." His role was more than a coach or a notional manager.

He was a friend turned teacher whose personality and influence charred the emotions of everyone within his inner circle. "While CD’s contributions to basketball were remarkable, it was his character that truly stood out," the team said. "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." Also, the Rockets owner, Tilman Fertitta, commented similarly: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former longtime Rockets assistant coach and general manager Carroll Dawson.

CD’s kindness, wisdom, and passion for the sport touched everyone around him and his impact on our organization was immeasurable. On behalf of my family and the entire Rockets organization, we extend our heartfelt condolences to CD’s wife, Sharon, and to all of his loved ones."