Orlando City SC midfielder Kaka (10) visited James Harden and the Rockets during their playoff game against the Spurs on Sunday night. The game came one day after Orlando City lost to the Dynamo, 4-0, at BBVA Compass Stadium.
Orlando City SC midfielder Kaka (10) visited James Harden and the Rockets during their playoff game against the Spurs on Sunday night. The game came one day after Orlando City lost to the Dynamo, 4-0, at BBVA
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Orlando City SC midfielder Kaka (10) shotts during the second half of the game at BBVA Compass Stadium Saturday, May 6, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Orlando City SC midfielder Kaka (10) shotts during the second half of the game at BBVA Compass Stadium Saturday, May 6, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots over San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots over San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) battles with San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) battles with San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Bobby Brown (8) dribbles toward the basket during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Bobby Brown (8) dribbles toward the basket during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) shoots from mid-range during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) shoots from mid-range during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) celebrates his basket during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) celebrates his basket during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) finds himself surrounded by Houston Rockets players Eric Gordon (10), Trevor Ariza (1) and Lou Williams (12) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) finds himself surrounded by Houston Rockets players Eric Gordon (10), Trevor Ariza (1) and Lou Williams (12) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) appears to be in pain with his leg during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) appears to be in pain with his leg during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) goes for the basket during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) goes for the basket during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) passes the ball to Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) passes the ball to Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. (
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) tries to strip the ball from San Antonio Spurs forward David Lee (10) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) tries to strip the ball from San Antonio Spurs forward David Lee (10) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) fouls on San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) fouls on San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets fans cheer for Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) scoring a three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets fans cheer for Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) scoring a three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets players Trevor Ariza (1) and Clint Capela (15) defending San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets players Trevor Ariza (1) and Clint Capela (15) defending San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017,
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) goes for the basket during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) goes for the basket during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) talks to Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) talks to Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) appears to be in pain with his left leg after battling with San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) appears to be in pain with his left leg after battling with San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) works to defend San Antonio Spurs guard Jonathon Simmons (17) during Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) works to defend San Antonio Spurs guard Jonathon Simmons (17) during Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) defends San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) defends San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets fans react to Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) not making a three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets fans react to Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) not making a three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray (5) shoots around Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) during Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray (5) shoots around Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) during Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) tries to stop a San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) shot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) tries to stop a San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) shot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) backs into Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) backs into Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) reacts during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) reacts during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) tries to defend San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) tries to defend San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) is pursued by San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) is pursued by San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) and Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) battle for a rebound during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) and Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) battle for a rebound during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) drives past San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) drives past San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) tries to drive on Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) tries to drive on Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots between San Antonio Spurs forward David Lee (10) and guard Patty Mills (8) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots between San Antonio Spurs forward David Lee (10) and guard Patty Mills (8) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) drives past San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) drives past San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) looks up at a replay during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) looks up at a replay during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. (
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) shoots during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) shoots during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren /
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) talks to Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) talks to Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) and San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) battle for a rebound during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) and San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) battle for a rebound during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) reacts after taking a body to the back during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) reacts after taking a body to the back during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets fans cheer for their player at the free throw line during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets fans cheer for their player at the free throw line during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) celebrates his three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) celebrates his three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) celebrates his three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) celebrates his three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) strips the ball from San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray (5) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) strips the ball from San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray (5) during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. (
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots a three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots a three-pointer during the second half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) drives during the first half of Game 3 in the second round of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series in Houston on Sunday, May 7, 2017. (Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle via AP)
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) drives during the first half of Game 3 in the second round of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series in Houston on Sunday, May 7, 2017. (Karen Warren/Houston
Photo: Karen Warren/Associated Press
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) looks to shoot against San Antonio Spurs during the first half of Game 3 in the second round of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series in Houston on Sunday, May 7, 2017. (Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle via AP)
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) looks to shoot against San Antonio Spurs during the first half of Game 3 in the second round of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series in Houston on Sunday, May
Photo: Karen Warren/Associated Press
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) and San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) battle for the ball during the first half in Game 4 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. (Karen Warren /Houston Chronicle via AP)
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) and San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) battle for the ball during the first half in Game 4 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in
Photo: Karen Warren/Associated Press
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) shoots around San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half in Game 4 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Friday, May 5, 2017, in Houston. (Karen Warren /Houston Chronicle via AP)
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) shoots around San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half in Game 4 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Friday, May 5, 2017, in Houston.
Photo: Karen Warren/Associated Press
San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) blocks a Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) shot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) blocks a Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) shot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) drives past San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (14) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) drives past San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (14) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) reacts under the basket during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) reacts under the basket during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) looks for a call during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) looks for a call during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. (
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots around San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (14) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots around San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (14) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) shoots over San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) shoots over San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots over San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots over San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) gets in front of a Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) shot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) gets in front of a Houston Rockets guard Lou Williams (12) shot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) drives during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) drives during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren /
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) battles San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) battles San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets center Nene (42) grimaces on the sideline during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets center Nene (42) grimaces on the sideline during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. (
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) guards San Antonio Spurs guard Kyle Anderson (1) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) guards San Antonio Spurs guard Kyle Anderson (1) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) drives past San Antonio Spurs guard Kyle Anderson (1) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) drives past San Antonio Spurs guard Kyle Anderson (1) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots past San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots past San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets head coach Mike D’Antoni talks to a referee during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets head coach Mike D’Antoni talks to a referee during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. (
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren /
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) shoots past San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) shoots past San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) shoots past San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) shoots past San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren /
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) puts the ball into the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) puts the ball into the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) performs offense foul on Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) performs offense foul on Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) argues with the referee for a foul call for him while Trevor Ariza (1) tries to break him off during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) argues with the referee for a foul call for him while Trevor Ariza (1) tries to break him off during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) looks to make a pass during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) looks to make a pass during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) passes the ball to his teammates during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) passes the ball to his teammates during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) tries to stop Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) from shooting a three-pointer during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) tries to stop Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) from shooting a three-pointer during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7,
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) puts the ball into the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) puts the ball into the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) puts the ball into the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) puts the ball into the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) goes for the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) goes for the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) goes for the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) goes for the basket during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) dribbles past San Antonio Spurs players Danny Green (14) and LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) dribbles past San Antonio Spurs players Danny Green (14) and LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7,
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets fans cheer for Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) on the sideline during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets fans cheer for Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) on the sideline during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee /
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) tries to stop a three-pointer by Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) tries to stop a three-pointer by Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) watches from the bench before the first half of Game 3 against the San Antonio Spurs in the second round of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series in Houston on Sunday, May 7, 2017. (Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle via AP)
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) watches from the bench before the first half of Game 3 against the San Antonio Spurs in the second round of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series in Houston on
Photo: Karen Warren/Associated Press
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) dunks the ball during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) dunks the ball during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) puts the ball into the basket while San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (14) is trying to block him during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) puts the ball into the basket while San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (14) is trying to block him during the first half of the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) watches from the bench before the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) watches from the bench before the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. (
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) and San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) battle for the ball during the first half in Game 4 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Friday, May 5, 2017, in Houston. (Karen Warren /Houston Chronicle via AP)
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) and San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) battle for the ball during the first half in Game 4 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Friday, May 5, 2017, in
Photo: Karen Warren/Associated Press
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) tries to avoid a collision with San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) tries to avoid a collision with San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili (20) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) shoots over Houston Rockets center Nene (42) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) shoots over Houston Rockets center Nene (42) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) and Houston Rockets center Nene (42) face off during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) and Houston Rockets center Nene (42) face off during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) and San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) exchange words during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) and San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) exchange words during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) tries to stop a shot by San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) tries to stop a shot by San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) runs down court during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) runs down court during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) dribbles past Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) dribbles past Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) shoots around San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) shoots around San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center,
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) looks to shoot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) looks to shoot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Fans get ready for the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Fans get ready for the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) and San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) battle for the tip during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) and San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) battle for the tip during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) drives during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) drives during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Fans get ready for the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Fans get ready for the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots a three point shot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots a three point shot during the first half of Game 3 of the second round of the Western Conference NBA playoffs at the Toyota Center, Sunday, May 7, 2017, in
Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle
Houston Rockets defeated San Antonio Spurs 125-104 at the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Houston Rockets defeated San Antonio Spurs 125-104 at the NBA Western Conference semifinals Game 4 Sunday, May 7, 2017, in Houston. ( Yi-Chin Lee / Houston Chronicle )
Photo: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle
James Harden is normally the most popular athlete in Houston during the NBA playoffs. On Sunday night, however, he took a back seat.
Harden and the Rockets got a visit from world soccer star Kaká during their game four victory over the San Antonio Spurs at Toyota Center.
Kaká, who plays for MLS club Orlando City SC, was in town this weekend for a game against the Dynamo. The Brazilian delayed his return to Florida so he could see the Rockets and Spurs in person.
The 35-year old is still playing at a high level, but his greatest days are behind him. He played for Italy’s A.C. Milan from 2003-2009 and for Spain’s Real Madrid from 2009-2013.
Kaká has won an incredible number of awards, including the 2002 FIFA World Cup, the 2007 UEFA Champions League and the 2007 Ballon d’Or. He is in his third season with Orlando City.
Orlando City is off to a strong start this season with high hopes of getting to the playoffs for the first time in its third season.
His visit with Harden and the victorious Rockets might have inspired him, though his team may need more than that if they face the Dynamo again. The Dynamo won, 4-0.
