Tracy McGrady
T-Mac brought unforgettable scoring bursts and a partnership with Yao Ming that made the Rockets a perennial playoff team.
Tracy McGrady was traded to the Houston Rockets on June 29, 2004, as part of a seven-player deal that sent Steve Francis, Cuttino Mobley, and Kelvin Cato to the Orlando Magic. He expressed excitement over the prospect of playing alongside Rocket All-Star center Yao Ming. Shortly after arriving, he signed a three-year, $63 million contract extension with the team. His tenure is defined by explosive scoring, including one of the most memorable performances of his career on December 9, 2004, when he scored 13 points in the final 35 seconds against the San Antonio Spurs, including a last-second three-pointer to secure a comeback victory.
- Role
- Small Forward / Shooting Guard
- Affiliation
- Houston Rockets (NBA)
- First appears
- 2004 Trade from Orlando Magic
- Status
- Retired Legend
- Jersey Number
- 1
Lore & Background
The Rockets struggled to begin the 2004–05 season, posting a losing record of 16–17 through their first 33 games. On December 9, McGrady had one of the most memorable performances of his career, scoring 13 points in the final 35 seconds against the San Antonio Spurs including a last-second three-pointer to secure a comeback victory. The sequence included four consecutive three-pointers. His pairing with center Yao Ming helped the Rockets become a perennial playoff team. His final seasons in the NBA were plagued by injuries, and he retired in 2013 following brief stints with the Qingdao DoubleStar Eagles of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) and the San Antonio Spurs.
In Their Own Story
The arena hummed with anticipation as the lights dimmed over the hardwood. In the quiet moments before tip-off, McGrady stood at center court, bouncing a basketball with rhythmic precision. The red and black jersey felt familiar, weighted by the expectations of a city hungry for glory. He took a deep breath, eyes fixed on the rim, ready to chase another dream in Houston.
Reader's Guide
For Rockets supporters, Tracy McGrady represents a specific nostalgia for the mid-2000s era when hope was palpable every night at the Toyota Center. Wearing jersey number one became more than fashion; it was a statement of allegiance to his style of play. Fans often recount 'T-Mac Time' moments during gatherings, celebrating his ability to take over games in critical stretches. The culture around his tenure emphasizes appreciation for pure scoring talent and athletic artistry. While the team has evolved, merchandise featuring his likeness remains a staple at fan shops, serving as a reminder of one of the most talented players ever to wear the red jersey.
Did You Know?
- McGrady was traded to the Rockets on June 29, 2004, as part of a seven-player deal that sent Steve Francis, Cuttino Mobley, and Kelvin Cato to the Magic.
- Shortly after arriving in Houston, McGrady signed a three-year, $63 million contract extension with the team.
- On December 9, 2004, McGrady scored 13 points in the final 35 seconds against the San Antonio Spurs, including a last-second three-pointer to secure a comeback victory.
- The sequence included four consecutive three-pointers.
- His pairing with center Yao Ming helped the Rockets become a perennial playoff team.