SAITAMA, JAPAN - OCTOBER 10: Gerald Green #14 of Houston Rockets looks on during the preseason game between Toronto Raptors and Houston Rockets at Saitama Super Arena on October 10, 2019 in Saitama, Japan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images)Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images

Gerald Green Announces NBA Retirement; Joins Rockets as Player Development Coach

Tyler ConwayOct 22, 2021

2007 NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion Gerald Green announced his retirement from the NBA on Friday, joining the Houston Rockets as a player development coach.

Green spent 12 years in the NBA with the Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, Indiana Pacers, Phoenix Suns, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics and Rockets.

A gifted athlete and scorer, Green averaged 9.5 points and 2.7 rebounds over the course of his career. He defeated Dwight Howard, Nate Robinson and Tyrus Thomas in the 2007 Slam Dunk Contest and also won the 2012 G League MVP.

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The Rockets are in the midst of a full-scale rebuild and have young developing guards like Kevin Porter Jr. and Jalen Green who could benefit from Green's tutelage.

Jalen Green, especially, has the type of athletic and shooting prowess that could give him some kinship with the elder statesman.