Rockets LaunchPod
Episodes
Minicast: Jalen Green breaks out as Rockets open season 2-2
29 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Tuesday’s show is a brief interview between our Ben DuBose and SportsTalk 790’s Stan Norfleet and Chris Gordy. Topics include the reasons for Hous...
Reaction to new Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun contracts in Houston
22 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Tuesday's episode features immediate reaction from Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to Houston's newly announced contract extensions with Jalen Green and Al...
2024-25 Rockets season preview with Craig Ackerman
21 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Monday’s episode offers a complete 2024-25 season preview featuring Craig Ackerman, the Rockets’ TV play-by-play voice for Space City Home Network...
Preseason notes: Steven Adams, Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr., and more
17 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Thursday’s episode features more insight related to the ongoing 2024-25 preseason for the Rockets (2-1). Topics include encouraging signs from Steve...
First impressions as Rockets open 2024-25 preseason
09 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With preseason play officially underway for the NBA’s 2024-25 season, Wednesday’s show features reaction from our Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to ea...
Minicast: Reaction to potential Sengun extension, Rockets’ media day
02 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
After Monday’s Rockets Media Day, Ben DuBose joined SportsTalk 790’s Next Up to discuss possible contract extensions for Alperen Şengün and Jale...
Matt Thomas on Tilman Fertitta, Ime Udoka, 2024-25 Rockets goals
26 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Matt Thomas, radio play-by-play voice of the Rockets and former public address (PA) announcer at Toyota Center, joins Thursday’s episode with insigh...
Vanessa Richardson on 2024-25 Rockets, SCHN broadcasts, and more
11 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In the start of a new series profiling Houston’s game broadcasters, Vanessa Richardson of Space City Home Network (SCHN) joins Ben and Paulo to disc...
Drafting all-time Rockets players, coaches
29 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With the arrival of the slow period of the NBA’s 2024 offseason, Thursday’s fan episode features a five-man panel draft featuring esteemed players...
Reaction to Rockets’ 2024-25 schedule release
16 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Friday's episode features reaction from our Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to Houston’s newly released schedule for the 2024-25 NBA season. Topics incl...
Rotation options, Sengun extension debate, Markkanen speculation
30 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Tuesday’s episode features a roundtable discussion of several recent news items connected to the Rockets. Topics include an uncertain short-term out...
Reed ready? Highs and lows from Rockets’ 2024 summer league
18 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Thursday’s show features reaction to Houston’s 2-1 start at the NBA’s 2024 summer league. Topics include insight on Reed Sheppard’s sensationa...
Minicast: Reed Sheppard, Cam Whitmore balling out at NBA summer league
15 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this July 15 segment from SportsTalk 790’s next up, Ben DuBose and Stan Norfleet react to Houston’s 2-0 start at the NBA’s 2024 summer league...
In busy draft week, Rockets add Reed Sheppard, AJ Griffin
28 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Thursday’s episode has reaction from Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to Houston’s busy 2024 NBA draft week, which culminated with the selection of Kent...
Rockets-Nets blockbuster trade reaction
26 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Wednesday’s show features reaction to the blockbuster trade between the Rockets and Brooklyn Nets involving upcoming draft assets, including what it...
As 2024 draft nears, Rockets also finalizing free agency plans
25 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As Wednesday’s 2024 NBA draft nears, the Rockets and general manager Rafael Stone are also finalizing plans for next Sunday’s start of free agency...
Rockets primer entering 2024 NBA draft, free agency window
23 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As key dates on the NBA calendar loom, Sunday’s episode features a preview from our Ben DuBose regarding Houston’s draft and free agency window fo...
Minicast: As draft nears, NBA Finals lessons for Rockets
20 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In a brief interview with Stan Norfleet (host of SportsTalk 790’s “Next Up”), our Ben DuBose shares some key takeaways from the 2024 NBA Finals ...
Exploring Houston’s salary cap outlook with Yossi Gozlan
16 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Rockets expect to operate above the NBA’s salary cap in the upcoming 2024 offseason, but they could potentially have a significant amount of fin...
June update: Rockets draft intel with Nathan Grubel (@DraftDeeper)
13 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With two weeks to go until the 2024 NBA draft, Houston continues to own the No. 3 overall pick in the first round. Draft guru Nathan Grubel (@DraftDee...
ClutchFans’ Dave Hardisty on 2024 Rockets offseason
31 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Dave Hardisty, founder of ClutchFans, joins Friday’s show to discuss the latest news and notes surrounding the Rockets and the NBA’s 2024 offseaso...
USA TODAY’s Bryan Kalbrosky on Rockets, NBA Draft chatter
23 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Bryan Kalbrosky, national NBA staff writer at USA TODAY’s For The Win, shares the latest intel and scouting analysis related to the Rockets and thei...
How landing the No. 3 draft pick changes Houston’s offseason
13 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Monday’s episode features immediate reaction to the Rockets unexpectedly securing the No. 3 overall pick (via Brooklyn) in the 2024 NBA Draft Lotte...
NBA playoffs storylines to watch for the Rockets
03 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Though their 41-41 record was much improved from last season, Houston didn’t quite qualify for the 2024 NBA playoffs. Yet, among the teams competing...
Rockets launch 2024 offseason with Rafael Stone extension
19 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Rockets (41-41) finished 2023-24 at .500, and their 19-win jump from last season was the largest of any NBA team and the second-biggest annual inc...
As season winds down, Rockets have key milestones in sight
11 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In a loaded Western Conference, the goal of advancing to the 2024 postseason proved to be too ambitious for the young and improving Houston Rockets (3...
As play-in hopes fade, why Rockets’ future remains bright
03 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Despite a 13-3 record from March onward, a 2024 Western Conference postseason berth is becoming increasingly unlikely for the Rockets (38-37). Thursda...
Jalen Green’s star rises as Rockets win nine straight
27 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The streak continues! The Rockets (36-35) are back above .500 for the first time since early January, and they’ve won nine straight games for the fi...
Rockets, Jalen Green suddenly can’t stop winning
19 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Rockets (32-35) are 7-1 in March with a five-game winning streak, and Jalen Green is the Western Conference Player of the Week. With those recent ...
Rockets relieved as Alperen Sengun avoids major injury
12 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Alperen Sengun’s 2023-24 season could be over after a leg injury, but it looks like there won’t be any further impact on his future. Monday’s ab...
VanVleet vs. Harden, Tari Eason update, Houston’s new math strategy
05 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Tuesday’s episode breaks down the good and bad of Houston’s 2-4 stretch out of the All-Star break, which culminated with Jalen Green’s strong sh...
Ime Udoka stays the course with Rockets, Jalen Green
22 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
After hinting at a potential change to Houston’s starting lineup, head coach Ime Udoka announced at Wednesday’s practice that the Rockets will sta...
Lineup changes: What is Ime Udoka hinting at?
16 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Rockets (24-30) enter the NBA’s 2024 All-Star break with five losses in six games, and head coach Ime Udoka is hinting at possible changes to hi...
On Jalen Green’s resurgence and the Steven Adams trade
02 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
After an underwhelming start to the 2023-24 season, third-year guard Jalen Green has exploded of late, averaging nearly 30 points per game on outstand...
Dry January continues for Rockets
26 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
After Wednesday’s heartbreaking overtime loss at home to Portland, the Rockets are just 3-8 in their last 11 games. Is it time to reset expectations...
What’s next for the Rockets after a 1-5 road trip?
19 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Friday’s show explores what’s next for the Rockets after a 1-5 road trip that dropped Houston (19-21) outside of the Western Conference play-in to...
Lessons learned from Rockets’ heartbreak in Chicago
12 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Friday’s show reacts to a heartbreaking Rockets loss in Chicago and shares some lessons learned for upcoming games. Topics include the importance of...
Can Alperen Sengun be an All-Star and a max player in 2024?
05 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Happy New Year! 2024 is starting on a great note for the Rockets (17-15), who defeated Brooklyn and Detroit by double digits thanks in large part to s...
Rockets, NBA trade season preview with Karthik Prasad
20 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Karthik Prasad (@StanfordKP) joins Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves for a roundtable chat regarding NBA trade season, which unofficially begins each Decembe...
Rockets streaking again as Tari Eason’s surge offsets Jalen Green’s slump
15 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
For a second time in under two months, the Rockets (12-9) have won at least four straight games, and they’re currently on pace to go 47-35 for the 2...
As Houston’s offense sputters, is Jabari Smith Jr. ready for a bigger role?
05 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The Rockets continue to excel at home, where they are 8-1, but struggle on the road, where they remain the NBA’s only winless (0-8) team. One reason...
As Jalen Green goes, so goes Rockets’ offense
24 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Friday’s episode reviews the extreme peaks and valleys of Jalen Green this season and explores strategies that Rockets coach Ime Udoka could adopt i...
Six straight! Key themes to Rockets’ ongoing win streak
14 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Tuesday’s episode of The Lager Line, sponsored by Karbach Brewing, features reaction from Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to Houston’s six-game winning...
Winning streak! How Rockets could be turning a corner
06 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
After an 0-3 start to the 2023-24 season, Houston enters this week at 2-3 and having won two straight games by an average margin of 14 points. Monday’...
Creative director Jose Lopez on new City jerseys and beyond
03 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Jose Lopez, senior creative director for the Rockets, joins Friday’s show with exclusive details on the process leading to Houston’s new City Edit...
Rockets time capsule: 2023-24 goals and expectations
25 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Tuesday’s episode previews the start of the 2023-24 regular season for the Rockets (at Orlando and San Antonio, then a seven-game homestand) while a...
Gretchen Sheirr on 2023-24 Rockets business and beyond
21 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Gretchen Sheirr, president of business operations for the Rockets, joins Saturday’s The Lager Line podcast to discuss what’s new for the 2023-24 t...
Key takeaways from Houston’s first two preseason games
14 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Saturday’s episode features analysis from Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves regarding the first two games of the 2023-24 NBA preseason for the Rockets. Top...
Reggie Bullock deal reaction, early training camp takeaways
04 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Wednesday’s show features reaction from Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to Houston’s recent signing of veteran wing Reggie Bullock. The episode also br...
Three takeaways from 2023 Rockets Media Day
02 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Fresh off Rockets Media Day at Toyota Center, Monday’s episode features analysis from Ben DuBose on key themes and takeaways. Topics include Houston...
Houston’s path forward without Kevin Porter Jr.
21 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Thursday’s episode features long-form analysis by Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves of the continued Kevin Porter Jr. fallout and what Houston’s future l...
Jeff Pearlman on HBO’s Winning Time and the modern NBA
15 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Jeff Pearlman, bestselling author of the book (Showtime) on which HBO’s Winning Time television show is based, joins our Ben DuBose to discuss how s...
Implications of Kevin Porter Jr.’s assault arrest
11 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Monday’s abbreviated episode features reaction from Ben DuBose to the news of Kevin Porter Jr.’s arrest in New York for an alleged domestic assaul...
Rockets notes: Future draft outlook, FIBA Dillon Brooks takeaways
30 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Wednesday’s episode features insight on Houston’s future draft outlook relative to other teams, and why it could be better than a recent Bleacher ...
Reaction to Joel Embiid rumors and Houston’s new 2023-24 schedule
18 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In Friday’s show, Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves react to Houston’s newly released 2023-24 schedule and whispers of a potential Joel Embiid deal down ...
Closing the door on the James Harden and Daryl Morey era
15 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Monday’s mini-episode breaks down the turmoil involving James Harden and Daryl Morey and how the Rockets are connected, both from the duo’s many p...
Which Rockets have most at stake in 2023-24 season
08 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In Tuesday’s episode, Rockets podcasters Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves react to the latest news and rumors surrounding the team. With third-year guard ...
Summer League recap and Jalen Green’s big offseason
23 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Sunday’s episode breaks down all the key Rockets takeaways from a 5-1 stint at the NBA’s 2023 summer league, including impressive showings by Jaba...
Amen Thompson debuts as summer Rockets make big impression
09 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Rookie point guard Amen Thompson was extremely impressive in his Houston debut, and second-year Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. scored 29 second-half...
Reaction to Houston’s chaotic start in 2023 free agency
02 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In a whirlwind start to the NBA’s 2023 free agency window, the Houston Rockets landed two of their three preferred targets in Toronto guard Fred Van...
Final thoughts entering 2023 Rockets free agency
29 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In their final preview episode, Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves offer one last look at Houston’s goals entering 2023 NBA free agency, which starts at 5:0...
Draft reaction as Rockets land Amen Thompson, Cam Whitmore
24 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In a weekend episode, Rockets podcasters Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves offer their initial reactions to Houston landing Amen Thompson (No. 4 pick, Overti...
Amen Thompson breakdown and Houston’s other draft options
16 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Cooper Klein, NBA draft analyst for Upside Swings and The Chop Shop, joins Paulo and Ben for a detailed scouting discussion of Houston’s options at ...
HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto on Rockets’ 2023 offseason targets
15 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Michael A. Scotto, national NBA writer for HoopsHype, joined our podcast to discuss the latest offseason rumors surrounding the Houston Rockets and th...
2023 Houston Rockets free agency, trade season preview
14 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
With the NBA Finals over and the Denver Nuggets crowned as champions, the league’s rumor mill regarding player transactions should escalate quickly ...
Key takeaways as Rockets, Rafael Stone answer media questions
05 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Monday’s episode of The Lager Line, sponsored by Clutch City Lager of Karbach Brewing, explores the key takeaways from recent interviews involving g...
Evaluating the Thompson twins and Houston’s 2023 draft targets
26 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Rockets fan and NBA draft analyst Nathan Fogg joins Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves on Friday’s The Lager Line to scout Houston’s potential first-round...
USA Today’s Bryan Kalbrosky on Rockets’ draft, free agency plans
24 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Bryan Kalbrosky, national NBA staff writer at USA TODAY’s For The Win, joins Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves on a new podcast to break down the rapidly e...
Early reaction to Rockets’ 2023 draft lottery night
17 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Tuesday’s episode, sponsored by Clutch City Lager of Karbach Brewing, features live, real-time reaction from Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to the 2023 ...
David Weiner on what NBA’s new CBA means for the Rockets
05 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
With the NBA’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) on the way, what does that mean for the Houston Rockets, who have approximately $60 million...
Rockets general counsel Clay Allen on NBA’s draft lottery day
02 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Clay Allen, general counsel of the Houston Rockets, chats with Ben DuBose regarding his role with the organization and the upcoming NBA draft lottery....
Early reaction to Houston’s hire of Ime Udoka as coach
25 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In Monday’s breaking-news episode, Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves offer their immediate reactions to Houston’s decision to hire Ime Udoka as head coac...
Boston perspective on Ime Udoka’s candidacy in Houston
21 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In Friday’s episode, Celtics Wire editor Justin Quinn offers his insight on the strengths and weaknesses of former Boston coach Ime Udoka, who appea...
Caitlin Cooper on Frank Vogel and Rockets’ coaching search
17 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In Monday’s podcast, Indiana Pacers writer Caitlin Cooper shares insight on the strengths and weaknesses of veteran NBA coach Frank Vogel — who ap...
What Rockets are searching for to replace Stephen Silas
11 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The NBA’s 2022-23 regular season is over for the young and rebuilding Houston Rockets (22-60), and they didn’t wait long to kick off a busy offsea...
Key storylines to watch as Rockets enter season’s final week
04 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As the NBA’s 2022-23 regular season enters its final week, the young and rebuilding Houston Rockets (19-60) have long been eliminated from playoff c...
Can Rockets change the narrative entering 2023 offseason?
24 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Led by Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr., the rebuilding Rockets have become much more competitive during the month of March. It comes at a good time, ...
Key takeaways from Rockets’ March surge
17 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Entering Friday, the Rockets have won two straight games and four of their last seven, overall. That clearly represents at least some progress for a y...
March Madness preview from a Rockets draft perspective
13 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
French big man Victor Wembanyama and NBA G League Ignite guard Scoot Henderson are widely viewed as the top-two prospects entering the 2023 NBA draft....
Why James Harden’s interest is uniquely important to the 2023 Rockets
03 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The young Houston Rockets still own the NBA’s worst record (13-49), and armed with an 11-game losing streak, they’re now on their second double-di...
Dave Hardisty on Jabari Smith Jr.’s outlook and offseason hypotheticals
23 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dave Hardisty, founder and owner of ClutchFans, was one of the biggest Jabari Smith Jr. supporters when the Houston Rockets drafted the Auburn product...
Rockets in the news: Jabari Smith Jr., Rafael Stone, Tilman Fertitta
19 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Sunday’s podcast features reaction to recent Rockets news stories involving rookie forward Jabari Smith Jr., owner Tilman Fertitta, and general mana...
Why Rafael Stone and Tilman Fertitta were trade deadline winners
12 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The 2022-23 NBA trade deadline came and went, and major changes came with it for the young and rebuilding Houston Rockets.Veteran guard Eric Gordon is...
Rockets trade deadline preview, Kyrie Irving deal reaction
06 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What will the Houston Rockets do at Thursday’s trade deadline for the 2022-23 NBA season? What should they do? The latest episode of The Lager Line ...
How Alperen Sengun’s higher usage is helping Jalen Green
24 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Since Kevin Porter Jr. went out on Jan. 11 with a left foot injury, the emergence and higher usage of second-year center Alperen Sengun has become a h...
Rockets losing streak takeaways and John Wall reaction
19 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Thursday’s show offers takeaways from Houston’s 12-game losing streak — now the NBA’s longest this season — along with reaction to John Wall...
Evaluating Rafael Stone as the 2023 trade deadline nears
13 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On the two-year anniversary of Houston’s final James Harden trade agreement, our Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves grade that trade and other key transacti...
New Year’s resolutions for Rockets in second half of season
05 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
With the midpoint of the 2022-23 NBA regular season almost here, the young and rebuilding Houston Rockets remain on a virtually identical pace to last...
What will 2023 have in store for the Houston Rockets?
29 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
As the calendar turns to 2023, it’s a pivotal year for the Houston Rockets. They have lots of salary cap room for roster upgrades, and the incentive...
Should Rockets consider a James Harden reunion plan in 2023?
23 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Though the 2023 NBA offseason is many months away, rumors are already swirling of a potential James Harden reunion in Houston. After all, the Rockets ...
With NBA trade season here, what should the Rockets do?
15 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Thursday is December 15, and each year, that date is the unofficial kickoff to NBA trade season. Specifically, it’s because that’s when most playe...
Expectations for Houston’s season-long homestand and beyond
11 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
With Sunday’s home game versus the Bucks, Houston begins a season-long homestand of seven games. Entering this stretch, the Rockets (7-18) are a res...
Evaluating the Rockets at 2022-23 season’s quarter pole
02 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
At the approximate quarter point of the 2022-23 NBA regular season, the Houston Rockets (5-16) have the identical record that they did one year ago. W...
Kevin Porter Jr. on Rockets’ start, new Sukuta venture
17 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Fresh off a much-needed Rockets win in Dallas, Thursday’s episode welcomes starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr. to the show for a review of the 202...
Mark Schindler on the progress of Houston’s young core
16 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Wednesday’s episode welcomes national NBA writer Mark Schindler to the show for a roundtable discussion with hosts Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves.Though...
What can Rockets learn from the Astros’ dynasty?
08 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In the aftermath of another World Series title for the Astros, Tuesday’s show explores what lessons Houston’s basketball franchise should take fro...
How can Rockets’ offense take the next step?
28 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Friday’s new episode features reaction from Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to the first five games of the NBA’s 2022-23 regular season for the Houston...
Matt Moore on how Jalen Green can evolve into a winning player
21 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In Friday’s episode, Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves are joined by The Action Network’s Matt Moore (@HPBasketball on Twitter) to explore this week’s ...
Craig Ackerman on key storylines entering the regular season
14 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Play-by-play broadcaster Craig Ackerman joins Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to discuss key storylines for the 2022-23 season, along with some lessons lea...
Rockets-Thunder trade reaction, preseason opener preview
30 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Friday’s episode features reaction from Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves to an eight-player trade between the Rockets and Thunder, which brought Derrick F...