The Houston Rockets are taking a strategic step for the 2025-26 NBA season by waiving Nate Williams, a guard/forward who was on a non-guaranteed minimum salary contract. This move opens up a roster spot as the team aims for flexibility in player acquisition. In a simultaneous move, the Rockets signed rookie Cameron Matthews from Mississippi State, on an Exhibit 10 training camp contract. This allows Matthews to compete for a roster spot during training camp.

The Rockets' decision to release Williams, who had been on a standard contract last season, underscores their effort to assess their roster thoroughly during the offseason. Matthews will join the summer-league team, which still has several games left, providing him a platform to showcase his skills as he vies for a permanent place on the roster.