Inside The Rockets

Houston Rockets Ink Josh Okogie to One-Year Deal

Rockets and free agent forward Josh Okogie have agree to terms on a one-year deal.
Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Josh Okogie (12) shoots before a game against the Chicago Bulls at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images
Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Josh Okogie (12) shoots before a game against the Chicago Bulls at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images | Nell Redmond-Imagn Images

Just when fans around the league thought the Rockets were already loaded up for the 2025-26 NBA season, general manager Rafael Stone and his staff have signed free agent forward Josh Okogie to a one-year deal worth $3.1 million, as reported by Shams Charania.

With this addition, the Rockets will now be adding another talented wing defender to their team. Okogie spent last season with the Phoenix Suns and Charlotte Hornets, logging a total of 40 games for the season.

He'd finish his seventh NBA season with an average of 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game, as the former first-rounder has found his niche in the league as a savvy defender on the wing.

Last season, Okogie also recorded career highs in field goal percentage and three-pointers made, as the 6-foot-4 wing would come off the bench for both squads he played for.

Josh Okogie (12)
Jan 27, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Josh Okogie (12) dunks the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

A notable solid role player, Okogie has managed to stay in the league despite low point totals because he understands his role and does it very well. Houston's identity has become defensively focused under head coach Ime Udoka, so adding a player like Okogie makes perfect sense for the squad.

While minutes may be a bit shaky to start the season, once the team is able to find its footing then players like Okogie will be able to find their role as the Rockets embark on their NBA championship chase.


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Alec Elijah
ALEC ELIJAH

Alec Elijah is a San Jose State University graduate, as well as a credentialed NCAA & NFL reporter. He contributes to On SI for the Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets and Oklahoma State Cowboys. Outside of On SI, Alec hosts a College Football/NFL Draft centered podcast.

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