Steve Francis: Houston's Flash in the Pan or Lasting Flame?
Okay, so you want to know how long Steve Francis was in Houston, huh? Well, let's dive into this deep end of basketball history.
The Franchise's Tenure in H-Town
Steve Francis, the man, the myth, the legend (or at least, he was for a while), graced the Houston Rockets with his presence from 1999 to 2004. That's right, folks, a solid five years of flashy passes, acrobatic layups, and those signature Steve Francis grimaces.
For those of you who weren't around back then, imagine a point guard who could make a dime look like a dollar bill. Steve Francis was that guy. He came into the league with a bang, sharing Rookie of the Year honors and immediately becoming the face of the franchise.
But let's be real, nothing lasts forever, especially in the NBA. Injuries, disagreements, and the ever-present allure of greener pastures led to Francis' departure. However, he did make a brief comeback to Houston in the 2007-2008 season, like a phoenix rising from the ashes (or more accurately, like a player returning to a team that probably didn't want him back).
So, Was He Worth It?
Whether Steve Francis' time in Houston was a resounding success or a colossal disappointment is a matter of opinion. Some people will argue that he was the spark the Rockets needed, while others will point to his inconsistency and the team's lack of playoff success.
One thing's for sure: his impact on the game went beyond just stats. He brought excitement to the court and inspired a generation of young ballers. So, while his tenure might not have ended in a championship parade, Steve Francis will always have a special place in the hearts of Rockets fans.
Unless, of course, you're a die-hard Yao Ming fan. In that case, let's just agree to disagree.
How to... Steve Francis Edition
- How to recreate Steve Francis' signature grimace: Easy. Just imagine you're about to bite into a really sour lemon while simultaneously trying to look deep in thought.
- How to master the Steve Francis crossover: Practice, practice, practice. And maybe watch some old highlight reels for inspiration.
- How to survive a Steve Francis-led fast break: Hold on tight and hope for the best.
- How to impress your friends with Steve Francis trivia: Learn all the details of his rookie year, his scoring average, and the infamous "I'm not going to answer any questions" press conference.
- How to appreciate Steve Francis' impact on the game: Watch some old footage, understand the era, and realize that basketball was a lot more fun back then.