OFFICIAL: Rockets Sign Impactful Veteran To A $39M Extension

HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets have secured a key piece of their frontcourt. Center Steven Adams will return to the Rockets for another three years after agreeing to a $39 million extension, solidifying his role alongside Alperen Şengün in head coach Ime Udoka’s evolving lineup. Shams Charania of ESPN first reported the news.

OFFICIAL: Rockets Sign Impactful Veteran, Steven Adams To A $39M Extension

Adams’ extension with the Rockets comes just ahead of free agency, removing one of the most experienced and impactful centers from the market. The fully guaranteed deal signals Houston’s commitment to building continuity around its emerging core.

Adams, 31, was set to hit free agency following the expiration of a two-year, $25.2 million contract initially signed with Memphis. But after returning to form in Houston, both sides moved quickly to secure a future together.

Stability After Injury, Results in the Playoffs

Adams missed the entire 2023–24 season due to knee surgery. His return in 2024–25 required some adjustment. Udoka experimented with a dual-big lineup featuring Adams and Şengün, giving the Rockets a new look on defense and the boards.

Though he shifted between the starting five and the bench early on, Adams soon became a steady contributor. He played in 58 regular-season games, averaging 3.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in just under 14 minutes per game.

His value didn’t come through box scores alone.

According to NBA.com, Adams led the league in offensive rebounding percentage (18.1%) among players with at least 50 appearances. That rebounding strength helped Houston finish the season as the NBA’s best offensive rebounding team.

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