The Houston Rockets have agreed to a long-term contract extension with head coach Ime Udoka. This new deal will make Udoka one of the highest-paid coaches in the league today.
ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported the extension news on social media.
Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka has agreed to a long-term contract extension with the franchise that makes him one of the highest paid NBA coaches, after a 52-win season and top-2 seed for the first time in seven years, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/fah9NMuWyj
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 19, 2025
This news comes after the New York Knicks tried to steal Udoka away from the Rockets. New York inquired about Udoka after their season ended, but Houston quickly shot down the interest.
The talented head coach will now remain with the Rockets for the long haul, and this gives the team time to grow. Houston was one of the biggest surprises last season under the leadership of Udoka.
More NBA news: Rockets Make Massive Roster Move Ahead of Free Agency
Udoka helped to lead the Rockets to a 52-30 record this past season, clinching the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. The Rockets made the playoffs for the first time since the 2019-20 season under Udoka in just his second year with the team.
Houston finished as one of the best defensive teams in the NBA this past season, coming in fifth in defensive efficiency. The Rockets ranked in the bottom five in defensive efficiency during the 2022-23 season, showing a complete turnaround.
Keeping Udoka around allows the Rockets to continue growing organically and keeps continuity with the organization. Udoka has his fingerprints all over the Rockets team, and Houston will be looking to keep things going strong with him.
The Rockets have been rumored to be involved in multiple blockbuster trades this summer, including for Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Rockets’ front office has a chance to make a big splash this summer, and players love to play under Udoka.
Houston has a very solid young core, but many around the NBA believe that it is time to go after the big fish. The Rockets have plenty of draft picks and intriguing players to offer teams in potential trades this summer.
This is a solid move for the Rockets and keeps them stable at the top. Houston remains one of the more interesting teams across the NBA, and they could be on the brink of becoming a powerhouse.
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Kevin Durant’s Frustration With Suns Reportedly Grows Amid Knicks Rumors
Report: Lakers Have Talked Center Trade With Western Conference Opponent
Surprising East Team Has Reportedly Entered Kevin Durant Trade Sweepstakes
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