The NBA world was surprised to learn on Monday that longtime Houston Rockets owner Leslie Alexander will be selling his franchise in the near future. Having just signed Chris Paul and looking to potentially trade for Carmelo Anthony, it was odd timing for the major announcement.
Nevertheless, the focus now shifts to finding a suitor for arguably the second best team in the Western Conference. One potential buyer is an NBA Legend, as Dikembe Mutombo declared on Tuesday to Fox 26 that he is attempting to purchase the Rockets.
“I’m working on it,” Mutombo said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports. “I’m talking to a lot of people already since (Monday). We’ll see.
“I’m just talking to the people who can cut the check and they can make me be part of it. I’m working on that.”
Mutombo said the people he is speaking with are receptive to the idea of attempting to purchase the Rockets franchise.
“A lot of people think it’s a great thing,” Mutombo said. “It’s a great opportunity.
“Now it’s just a question of the number,” he said laughing. “There’s going to be a lot of discussion and a lot of cash.
“I missed my opportunity two years ago with the Atlanta Hawks.”
Mutombo praised the current direction of the franchise, maintaining that it did not require a rebuild from whoever purchases the team.
The defensive ace played for the Rockets in the twilight of his career, spending five seasons there before his retirement in 2009.
