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Chief Executive Officer Thaddeus “Tad” Brown of the Houston Rockets announced on Friday that he will be resigning from his role following the conclusion of the 2021 season. Brown joined the Rockets during the 2002-03 season as the Vice President of Corporate Development and was named CEO in 2006. Brown and Yao Ming were welcomed to the organization in the same week.
“It has been the greatest honor of my professional life to lead the Houston Rockets and Clutch City Sports and Entertainment. The executives, City leaders, partners and staff I’ve been blessed to work with over the past 20 years represent the best our industry and region have to offer, and all have been critical to building the world-class organization that fans and partners on a global scale proudly support today.” — Brown
Tilman Fertitta bought the Houston Rockets three and a half years ago. The team he got won 65 games and was a hamstring away from a title in his first season.
— ClutchFans (@clutchfans) April 23, 2021
Since then, the team has lost all five starters, the head coach, the GM and the CEO.
This is definitely his team now.
Brown cited that his desire to spend more time with his family is the reason behind his decision to step down as CEO — not ownership nor the Rockets’ struggles throughout the 2021 season. During his media availability via Zoom, Brown said his successor will be announced soon.
As he prepares for his transition, Gretchen Sheirr will be taking on most of Brown’s responsibilities on the business side. Sheirr currently serves as the Rockets Chief Revenue officer.
“When Tilman and I first started discussing a succession plan, it was very emotional for us both as we’ve known each other since I first moved to Houston. We built a friendship when Tilman and Paige were fans and corporate partners. I can’t thank Tilman enough for his support and friendship, and for the confidence and trust he placed in me. I am excited to see what the future holds for the franchise.” — Brown
In 19 seasons spent in Houston, the Rockets possessed an 880-629 record with 13 post-season appearances under Brown.
“On behalf of the entire Rockets organization and my family, I want to thank Tad for his stellar and tireless service to the Houston Rockets franchise. I could not have asked for a better leader to work with since becoming owner. I wish Tad, his wife Janice, and his daughters, Kennedy, Addison, Nikki and Chloe all the best in their next chapter.” — Rockets owner Tilman J. Fertitta