Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo interested in Rockets ownership
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Dikembe Mutombo said he wants to get into NBA ownership and is looking for people to join a bid for his former team the Houston Rockets.
Mutombo said he was looking for partners who can "cut the check and they can make me be part of it." He said he has been in contact with potential buyers since Monday, when Leslie Alexander announced he would put the team up for sale after 24 years of ownership.
SEE ALSO: Exclusive look at the Houston Rockets listing
Mutombo finished his 18-year NBA career by playing for the Rockets from 2004 to 2009. He had high praise for the team, which recently paired Chris Paul with franchise cornerstone James Harden to form a high-powered backcourt, and said he still has a home in Houston.
Houston native and billionaire restaurateur Tilman Fertitta, former Rockets center Yao Ming and Gallery Furniture owner Jim "Mattress Mack" McIngvale have all expressed interest in buying the team.
During a press conference, CEO Tad Brown said Alexander felt the time was right to sell the team.
"I think (Alexander) had a real good conversation with his family and close, close friends," Brown said. "He just decided it was time for him to make another change in his life."
Alexander purchased the Rockets in 1993 for $85 million. Under Alexander, the Rockets have won two NBA championships.
"It's been my great joy and honor to own the Houston Rockets for the past 24 years," Alexander said in a release. "I've had the incredible opportunity to witness true greatness through the players and coaches who have won championships for the city, been named to All-Star and All-NBA teams, enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame, and done so much for our franchise and our fans. And the Houston community has been home to me; I will continue to support the charities I have made commitments to throughout the years. I'll always have a special place in my heart for the fans, partners, city officials and employees who care so deeply for this team. I've made this decision after much deliberation with my family and friends, and do so knowing the franchise is in great shape with the players, coaches and management team in place."
Brown will oversee the sale process, Alexander said.
Throughout his tenure as owner, Alexander and the Clutch City Foundation contributed more than $35 million to hundreds of charities throughout Houston.
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