The Houston Rockets have had one of the most active front offices of the past decade, as they are always linked to star players who might be available. This offseason was a good example of that, as the Rockets were linked to Jimmy Butler, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and even Paul George (not to mention Mikal Bridges).
The management team has undergone a facelift in recent years, with Daryl Morey’s departure to the Philadelphia 76ers causing some shuffling. Rafael Stone became general manager, Eli Witus became assistant general manager and Gretchen Sheirr became president of operations, replacing Tad Brown, who left to join Morey in Philadelphia.
But let’s be honest, there are many more people who are key figures on the operational side. There always are.
They may not be as well known because they’re not always in the forefront. Like Travis Stockbridge, who started as an intern under Morey in 2012 and worked his way up the ranks. Patrick Fertitta, the son of Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta, is another good example.
Fertitta has been in the weeds with his father and has been part of most of the Rockets’ major moves in one way or another.
Young Fertitta was mentioned in The Athletic’s ’40 Under 40′ listwhich highlights young coaches, executives and key personalities on the rise, giving them the praise they deserve.
“Fertitta’s official title doesn’t explain everything he does for the Rockets. He’s involved in the day-to-day operations of the franchise, particularly on the basketball side, working with general manager Rafael Stone as they continue to put the team on the path to ascendance after several years in the lottery. Or as one league insider put it about Fertitta, the son of owner Tilman Fertitta, “He’s got all the power.”
It’s safe to say that Fertitta will only continue to progress within the organization and in the league.
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