Rudy Tomjanovich
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 8 in (2.03 m)
228 lb (103 kg)
Born:
November 24, 1948
Hamtramck, Michigan, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
University of Michigan
Rudy Tomjanovich was a five-time NBA All-Star and one of the most beloved figures in Houston Rockets history. Drafted second overall in 1970 by the San Diego Rockets, he became a cornerstone of the franchise during its move to Houston. Known for his smooth mid-range jumper and rebounding grit, Rudy T averaged 17.4 points and 8.1 rebounds per game across 11 NBA seasons—all with the Rockets.
His playing career was cut short in 1977 after a violent on-court incident, but he returned to basketball and built an even greater legacy as a head coach. He led the Rockets to back-to-back NBA championships in 1994 and 1995 and later coached Team USA to Olympic gold in 2000. Tomjanovich was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020 for his achievements as both a player and coach. His jersey (#45) was the first ever retired by the Rockets, solidifying his place as a franchise icon.
Tomjanovich's Awards and Records
- 2× NBA champion (1994, 1995)
- NBA All-Star Game head coach (1997)
- Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award (2024)
- Led Rockets to 8 playoff appearances in 11 full seasons
- Olympic Gold Medal – Head Coach, Team USA (2000)
- Bronze Medal – Head Coach, Team USA (1998 FIBA World Championship)
- Inducted into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2020)
- Transitioned to coach, becoming Rockets’ winningest coach
- Back-to-back NBA championships (1994, 1995)
- Lowest seed (6th) to win a title
- NBA Coach of the Year (Sporting News, 1993)
- Head coach of Team USA, won bronze (1998) and gold (2000 Olympics)
NBA Teams
As a player:
San Diego / Houston Rockets 1970–1981
As a coach:
Houston Rockets (assistant) 1983–1992
Houston Rockets 1992–2003
Los Angeles Lakers 2004–2005
NBA Draft
1970: 1st round, 2nd overall pick
San Diego
Number Worn
45
NBA Stats
As Player
Games played
768
Minutes per game
33.5
Points per game
17.4
Rebounds per game
8.1
FG(%)
.501
FT(%)
.784
3P(%)
.262
Points
13,383 (17.4 ppg)
Rebounds
6,198 (8.1 rpg)
Assists
1,573 (2.0 apg)
As Coach
Career Wins–Losses
503-397
Win(%)
.559