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Houston Rockets
Overall: 35
Title track: T34
Ownership: 31
Coaching: T68
Players: 52
Fan relations: 36
Affordability: 48
Stadium experience: 36
Bang for the buck: 48
Change from last year: +14
The Houston Rockets moved up to No. 35 in the Ultimate Standings after a deep playoff run, which included beating one of their in-state rivals, the Dallas Mavericks, in the first round and a thrilling seven-game victory in the conference semifinals against the Los Angeles Clippers.
What's good
The Rockets are above average in just about every category, although leaders in none. Owner Leslie Alexander gets high marks now that the Rockets, who made the NBA's final four in 2015, are on the rise and potentially on a title track.
What's bad
Coaching is the only category in which the Rockets are rated (barely) below average. Even there, Kevin McHale's stewardship is growing on Houston fans, as he's improved 21 spots in the past year. That's what leading the team to a big comeback over the favored Clippers and making the finals in the ultra-tough Western Conference will do for a coach's reputation.
What's new
The Rockets made a big move up the charts in fan relations, going from No. 70 last year to No. 36 this year. The franchise cashed in on leading scorer James Harden, selling fake beards that have become a staple at Houston games. Fan-friendly players Harden, Dwight Howard, Corey Brewer and Jason Terry helped too. It was Howard who hung out with fans in the Toyota Center during a severe rain storm. And one of the league's best dance routines comes from a group of Houston's most mature citizens, the Space City Seniors, who groove to hip-hop music.
Next: New Orleans Pelicans | Full rankings
