Rockets face tough draft decision

By Bill Ingram Sports Central Columnist

DATELINE 1983: The Houston Rockets received the first pick in the NBA Draft and drafted Akeem Olajuwon, a young Nigerian who attended the University of Houston. Olajuwon would forever alter the identity of Houston's NBA franchise, eventually winning the first two professional sports championships the city of Houston had ever known. His recent decline has brought on the Steve Francis era, which has been fun to watch, but frustrating, as injuries have prevented the team to reach its full potential.

Well, everything happens for a reason.

DATELINE 2002: The Houston Rockets sent Steve Francis to the NBA Draft Lottery in New York to represent the team. After finishing with the fifth-worst record in the NBA, they were the odds-on favorite to pick fifth in this year's draft. Well, to quote Han Solo: "Never tell me the odds!"

When the announcement was made that the Denver Nuggets had dropped to fifth in the draft order, Rockets fans felt that jolt of excitement that is usually reserved for those waiting in line to see Star Wars Episode II for the first time. It was the feeling of daring to hope that this might lead to something big. When the fourth pick was announced as belonging to Memphis, the excitement built. When the third pick was handed to the Golden State Warriors, it was unbearable. Who would pick second? It had to be either Chicago or Houston ... could the Rockets get that lucky?

And the second pick goes to ... the Chicago Bulls!

And the city of Houston goes wild!

Luke has just destroyed the Death Star, Obi Wan just sliced up Darth Maul, Vader just vaquished the Emperor, Yoda just whipped out his lightsaber and got busy -- take your pick, but this was the most exciting moment in Houston basketball in seven years. The Houston Rockets landed the top pick in the 2002 Draft and will have a month to consider which player in the collegiate and international ranks best suits their needs.

Everyone is talking about Yao Ming, but is that the direction the Rockets will go? They have a serviceable big man and don't need another three-point threat. Jay Williams is out, as Francis is not about to give up his starting spot at the point. Take a small forward? Maybe the Rockets will choose to deal the pick... for just about anyone they want in the league. Lots of questions, but a fantastic position to be in.

Which direction will the Rockets go? Stay tuned!

Article courtesy of Sports Central.