Rockets Honor Legacy of Players Through Jersey Numbers

Houston, Texas — The Houston Rockets have a rich history, showcased through the array of jersey numbers worn by their players since the team’s inception in the 1967-68 season. Over the years, a total of 52 different jersey numbers have been donned by nearly 500 players, including a distinct number worn by assistant coach and general manager Carroll Dawson.

To pay tribute to the numerous players who have represented the franchise, Rockets Wire is detailing the history of these jersey numbers and the athletes behind them. Currently, seven jerseys have been retired to honor some of the greatest Rockets in the franchise’s history.

Today’s focus is on the 14th of 17 players to wear the No. 1 jersey — Iman Shumpert. After a standout college career at Georgia Tech, Shumpert was selected 17th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks. The Oak Park, Illinois, native spent the early part of his professional career with New York before moving to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Shumpert joined the Rockets in 2019, where he played in just 20 games. During his time with the team, he exclusively wore jersey No. 1, averaging 4.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, according to Basketball Reference.

The history of player jerseys continues to reflect the legacy of the Rockets, with each number telling a unique story of the talent that has walked the court.