The Houston Rockets have secured their future by locking up head coach Ime Udoka with a contract extension.
While the team has yet to make an official announcement and contract details remain private, the timing reflects the organization’s confidence in their leader.
Udoka transformed Houston into a legitimate contender, guiding them to the second-best record in the Western Conference this season and their first playoff appearance since 2019-20.
Former NBA standout Kendrick Perkins shared his thoughts on “The Pat McAfee Show,” offering high praise for Udoka’s impact.
“You have a coach that just signed an extension and Ime Udoka I believe, is one of the best coaches in the NBA. I mean, the Rockets could be the team going into the next season… as the frontrunners for… at least winning the Western Conference,” Perkins said.
“I believe Ime Udoka is one of the best coaches in the NBA..
Kevin Durant is still giving you 27 points a night”@KendrickPerkins #PMSLive https://t.co/RKt9cJiWuW pic.twitter.com/3l3AnCvLtD
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) June 23, 2025
The turnaround under Udoka has been remarkable. Houston managed just 42 combined wins over the two seasons before his arrival, then improved to 41-41 in his first year.
This season brought another leap forward with a 52-30 record, marking their first winning campaign since 2019-20.
The Rockets earned a playoff berth and pushed the Golden State Warriors to seven games in a thrilling first-round series before falling just short.
Recent developments have only strengthened Houston’s position.
The addition of superstar Kevin Durant this past week instantly elevated championship expectations around the franchise.
Perkins believes this move addresses the team’s most glaring need.
The foundation was already solid with veterans Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams providing leadership while young talents like Amen Thompson, Alperen Şengün, Jabari Smith Jr., and Tari Eason continue developing.
What Houston lacked was a proven closer who could deliver in crucial moments.
Durant brings exactly that pedigree and presence. Combined with Udoka’s proven system, the Rockets have transformed from basement dwellers to potential title contenders in just two seasons.
