Houston Rockets forward Dillon Brooks, left, looks to drive around Memphis Grizzlies guard Jaylen Nowell (24) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, in Houston.
Michael Wyke/Associated Press
Brooks rocked a new hairstyle before the Rockets’ 117-104 win over the Memphis Grizzlies, sporting braided hair that formed the Rockets logo in the back. So, why other than team support did Brooks change his look prior to Wednesday’s win? After the game he credited something of a modern legend in Houston for his new style.
“I seen Gerald [Green] get the ‘R’ in his head one time, and he gave me the contact of the braider he be using,” Brooks told the media. “I’ve been using her ever since I got here. I just wanted to try it out, and she’s amazing.”
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Green’s NBA time in Houston was relatively short, a two-season period from 2017-19 that coincided with a pair of runs deep into the Western Conference playoffs (before bitter losses to Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors). But the 6-foot-6 high flyer is a legend in Houston for far more than his on-court contributions. Green is a Houston native, and he’s remained quite connected to the area after his playing career, currently working as an analyst on the SpaceCity Home Network.
Brooks has yet to log significant time in Houston to date as he is just five months removed from his summer free-agent decision. But the former Grizzlies tone-setter is gaining fans at Toyota Center at a rapid rate. Brooks is a defensive ace with a disciplined shot profile. He’s also a mental and emotional leader for this young group, playing a large hand in the franchise’s turnaround with new point guard FredVanVleet and coach Ime Udoka.
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Houstonians were already enjoying The Dillon Brooks Experience for his play on the floor alone. The homage to Green will only increase his popularity among Rockets’ fans both in town and across the globe.