BREAKING NEWS: Ime Udoka Inks Four-Year Contract Extension with Houston Rockets After Major Pay Raise

 

HOUSTON — In a major move signaling long-term confidence in their leadership, the Houston Rockets have officially announced a four-year contract extension for head coach Ime Udoka, following a significant pay raise that reportedly makes him one of the highest-paid coaches in the NBA.

 

Udoka, who took the reins in Houston in 2023, has been widely credited with spearheading the team’s turnaround, instilling discipline, defensive intensity, and a winning culture that has reenergized a once-struggling franchise. While financial details have not been formally disclosed, league insiders report the extension is valued at nearly $48 million, solidifying Udoka’s commitment to Houston through the 2028-29 season.

 

General Manager Rafael Stone praised Udoka’s impact, stating, “Ime has brought leadership, accountability, and a competitive edge to this young group. We believe in the foundation he’s building and are thrilled to secure his leadership for the long haul.”

 

Under Udoka’s guidance, the Rockets showed dramatic improvement during the 2024–25 season, finishing just shy of a playoff berth with a promising 42-40 record. The team’s emerging core—headlined by Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson—has blossomed under his coaching, while veterans have also praised the culture shift.

 

Speaking after the announcement, Udoka said, “I’m grateful to the Rockets organization for believing in the vision we’re building. We’ve laid a strong foundation, and this extension only fuels my motivation to bring a championship back to Houston.”

 

Fans across the city welcomed the news, seeing it as a critical step toward sustained success.

 

With stability at the coaching helm and a talented young roster, the Rockets appear poised to become a rising force in the Western Conference—now officially locked in with Ime Udoka leading the charge for the foreseeable future.