Deals
Rockets' Popularity in China Could Push Price Past $2 Billion
- Owner Les Alexander said Monday he was selling the NBA team
- Team is popular in China thanks to Yao Ming, Tracy McGrady
James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets dunks against the San Antonio Spurs on May 5, 2017.
Photographer: Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThis article is for subscribers only.
The sale of the Houston Rockets could set a National Basketball Association record, surpassing the $2 billion that Steve Ballmer paid for the Los Angeles Clippers, according to sports consultants.
Rockets owner Les Alexander said Monday that he was selling the franchise, which Forbes magazine says is valued at $1.65 billion. The sale price will likely be higher, said former Rockets President George Postolos, thanks in part to the team’s popularity in China, where former Rockets star Yao Ming is immensely popular.