The basketball community is in mourning following the passing of Carroll Dawson, who left an indelible mark on the sport during his storied career. Dawson, affectionately known as "CD," passed away on Monday at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, talent, and heart.
Dawson’s journey with the Houston Rockets began in 1980 when he joined the organization as an assistant coach. Before that, he had spent four seasons as the head coach at Baylor, paving the way for his future successes in the NBA. His tenure as an assistant coach with the Rockets lasted a remarkable 17 years, during which he served under four different head coaches. During this period, Dawson was a part of four NBA Finals teams and played a pivotal role in the Rockets' championship victories in 1994 and 1995.
In 1996, Dawson transitioned to the role of general manager, a position where his influence would continue to be felt profoundly. One of his most significant accomplishments came in 2002 when he orchestrated the drafting of Yao Ming as the No. 1 overall pick. Two years later, Dawson made another headline-grabbing move by orchestrating the trade that brought Tracy McGrady to Houston. These decisions underscored his eye for talent and his commitment to building competitive teams.
"For nearly three decades, CD was a cornerstone of our organization, instrumental in shaping the careers of stars like Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson," the Rockets reminisced in a heartfelt statement. "A proud Texas native, CD served as the only coach to be present for all four of Houston's NBA Finals appearances, including the back-to-back championship teams. As general manager, he brought iconic talents to Houston including Charles Barkley, Steve Francis, Yao Ming, and Tracy McGrady, while also assembling the four-time WNBA champion Houston Comets."
Indeed, Dawson’s impact wasn't confined to the NBA. From 1997 to 2007, he also served as the general manager for the Houston Comets. Under his management, the Comets secured the league's first four championships, an achievement that remains etched in the annals of WNBA history. His ability to spot and nurture talent was as evident in the women's game as it was in the men's.
Yet, Dawson's life wasn’t without its challenges. In 1989, he was struck by lightning, an incident that led to a gradual deterioration of his vision. Despite this adversary, he continued to contribute significantly to the Rockets' organization, demonstrating resilience and unwavering commitment.
When Dawson retired in 2007, the Rockets honored him by raising a banner with his initials "CD" in the rafters of the Toyota Center. This tribute was a testament to the deep respect and admiration he earned over his decades of service.
"While CD's contributions to basketball were remarkable, it was his character that truly stood out. We will deeply miss his uplifting spirit, infectious humor, and kind-hearted nature," the Rockets reflected, capturing the essence of a man who touched the lives of many both on and off the court.
Dawson's legacy is best captured not just in the accolades and championships but in the lasting relationships he built and the profound impact he had on the basketball community. He leaves behind an enduring legacy that will inspire future generations of coaches, players, and fans.