Tilman Fertitta, the chairman, CEO, and sole owner of Landry’s, Inc., one of United States largest restaurant corporations, is set to purchase the Houston Rockets from Leslie Alexander for a record $2.2 billion dollars, a statement said on Tuesday. “I am truly honored to have been chosen as the next owner of the Houston Rockets,” Fertitta said in a release from the team.
“This is a life-long dream come true. Leslie Alexander has been one of the best owners in all of sports, and I thank him immensely for this opportunity. He has the heart of a champion.”
Alexander, 73, bought the franchise for just $85 million in 1993. “It’s been my great joy and honor to own the Houston Rockets for the past 24 years,” Alexander said in a statement.
“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.”
"Leslie Alexander has been one of the best owners in all of sports, and I thank him immensely for this opportunity. He has the heart of a champion," Fertitta said.
"Lastly, out of respect for the NBA's approval process, I can say no more other than I am overwhelmed with emotion to have this opportunity in my beloved city of Houston."
Under Alexander’s reign the Rockets have won two NBA championships with title triumphs in 1994 and 1995.
