Texans Coach DeMeco Ryans Enjoys Rockets Blowout Victory Over Raptors
HOUSTON — Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans made his plans clear at the end of the 2023 season. Before beginning his work alongside general manager Nick Caserio to improve Houston's roster through free agency and the draft, spending time with his family was Ryans' top objective.
Friday night, Ryans and his children watched as the Houston Rockets recorded a 135-106 victory over the Toronto Raptors to close their three-game homestand. Ryans and his family sat courtside as rookies Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore scored career highs, respectively.
The Rockets announced Ryans' presence midway through the second quarter, where the crowd inside the Toyota Center greeted him with a loud ovation.
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans on the field before the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at NRG Stadium.
Mandatory Credit Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
"Family is the most important thing," Ryans said. "Very thankful for my family always, and their support, and seeing them every game, seeing their support. Win or lose, seeing those smiles on my kids’ face, on my wife’s face, it’s always uplifting to me. I’m excited to be able to spend some time with them, go hang out in the car line with everyone else. It’ll definitely be a fun time."
In his first year at the helm in Houston, Ryans helped the Texans exceed their low expectations for the 2023 season. For a team projected to win six games at best, the Texans advanced to the Divisional Round of the playoffs following a 10-7 regular season record.
Ryans is a finalist for the AP NFL Coach of the Year, joining Dan Campbell of the Detroit Lions, John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens, Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers, and Cleveland Browns coach, Kevin Stefanski.
Ryans wasn't the only special guest the Rockets welcomed during their three-game homestand. Miami Dolphins cornerback and Houston native Xavien Howard took part in the Rockets' First Shot prior to the game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver and pending free agent Mike Evans was in attendance during the Rockets' disappointing loss to the New Orleans Pelicans Wednesday night. Evans told Texans Daily, "I’m excited to see where I am going to end up,” when speaking on free agency.
