Former Houston Rockets assistant coach and general manager Carroll Dawson, affectionately known as “CD,” has passed away at the age of 86. The cause of his death remains undisclosed. Dawson was a cornerstone of the franchise, dedicating nearly three decades of his life to the Rockets from 1980 to 2007.
Beginning as an assistant coach under Del Harris, Dawson later collaborated with Bill Fitch, Don Chaney, and Rudy Tomjanovich before transitioning to the front office in 1996. He is the only individual in the franchise to have participated in each of their four NBA Finals runs, including the back-to-back championships in 1994 and 1995.
The Houston Rockets honored Dawson with a heartfelt statement, highlighting his remarkable contributions to basketball and his standout character. His legacy is forever commemorated with his banner hanging from the rafters of Toyota Center, alongside other Rockets legends.
Dawson earned a reputation for developing big men, working closely with Hall of Famers like Elvin Hayes, Hakeem Olajuwon, Ralph Sampson, and Moses Malone. As general manager, he excelled in enhancing the team’s roster through key trades involving players such as Scottie Pippen, Charles Barkley, Cuttino Mobley, and Tracy McGrady. Notably, he drafted Yao Ming in 2002 and hired Daryl Morey as his successor in 2007.
Beyond the NBA, Dawson significantly impacted the WNBA, contributing to the success of the four-time champion Houston Comets. As executive vice president, he was instrumental in signing legends Tina Thompson, Cynthia Cooper, and Sheryl Swoopes, and in hiring coach Van Chancellor.
Rockets general manager Rafael Stone reflected on Dawson’s influence, praising his unique ability to connect with people through humor and his lasting impact on the organization.
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