NBA Rumors: Rockets Plan To Retire Ex-Franchise Player's Jersey Number

The James Harden drama is well-documented, one that included fans burning the player's signature No. 13 jerseys when “The Beard” left the Houston Rockets and joined the Brooklyn Nets.

It was something that did not sit well with most. Some felt that it was something that Rockets team owner Tilman Fertitta would never forget. But in a surprising move, the 63-year-old revealed that they plan to retire the former NBA MVP’s number, branding Harden as someone who will “always be a Rocket.”

“Of course, we will retire his jersey. He made my first three years of owning this franchise unforgettable. The success he brought this franchise over eight years and the memories he created for our fan base [are] truly remarkable,” Fertita said to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle.

For those who may have lost track, Harden suited up for the Rockets from 2012 to 2021. It was here where the nine-time All-Star made his mark, racking up one record after another–particularly the 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player plum.

But there is perhaps nothing more significant than the fact that Harden led the club to the NBA playoffs in every full season he was with the franchise.

The best finish they had was in 2018. They were one win away from making the 2018 NBA Finals, falling to the Golden State Warriors in a pivotal Game 7.

Rockets fans were not exactly forgiving when the Harden trade rumors came out. One example was a local businessman, who offered a free car wash service to fans who would surrender Harden's old Rockets uniform.

Harden will set foot on the court of the state-of-the-art Toyota Center in Houston as a full-fledged Net for the first time on Wednesday.

Despite Fertitta’s plan, disgruntled Rockets fans are expected to let Harden hear it.