Houston's hopes for a return to the WNBA have been reignited following recent statements from league commissioner Cathy Engelbert. Although Houston was not included in the latest round of expansion, Engelbert acknowledged the city's rich history in women's basketball and its ownership group led by Tilman Fertitta.

The WNBA has seen significant expansion with new franchises in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia, alongside plans for Toronto and Portland starting in 2026. Despite missing this opportunity, Engelbert's comments indicate that Houston remains on the league's radar, suggesting future possibilities for the city.

While the WNBA's expansion strategy seems set for now, there are underlying factors to consider, including the potential relocation of struggling franchises like the Connecticut Sun. Fertitta's continued support for the league positions Houston favorably for any future openings.

Hockey's popularity continues to grow in the United States, and yet Houston, a huge city with a rich hockey history, remains without an NHL team. The city has previously hosted teams like the Houston Aeros, who left in 2013 due to lease disputes. Despite no current franchise, billionaire Tilman Fertitta has expressed interest in bringing the NHL back to Houston, and recent surveys indicate a strong local support for the idea. However, the primary hurdles include the high cost of expansion and arena logistics. With the NHL adding teams and relocating franchises, Houston is a leading candidate for future expansion.

The Houston Rockets are prioritizing team chemistry alongside talent as they navigate the offseason. Owner Tilman Fertitta emphasizes the importance of chemistry for a winning basketball team, suggesting that continuity is key to their recent success.

After a significant jump from an even record to a second-place finish in the Western Conference, the Rockets attribute their success in part to their cohesive young core, which includes players like Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson. Continuity has reportedly helped these players excel, as their familiarity breeds confidence and development.

General Manager Rafael Stone supports this view, indicating that a stable roster allows younger players to thrive. The Rockets' roster features several first-round picks, creating a promising future if they maintain their current course.

In a recent celebration at the University of Houston, Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta took a playful jab at the Dallas Mavericks about their controversial trade involving Luka Doncic. Fertitta shared his amusement while discussing the trade with President Trump, calling it a 'dumbass' move. The Mavs traded Doncic, a rising star, to the Lakers in exchange for veteran Anthony Davis, an aging player with a history of injuries. This deal has drawn criticism, especially after the Mavericks' disappointing season, where they finished as the 10th seed and were eliminated in the play-in tournament.

Fertitta's comments reflect the Rockets' success, finishing the regular season as the West's No. 2 seed and clinching the Southwest Division title. His criticisms of the Mavericks come in light of their struggles, particularly as the Rockets continue to thrive in the NBA landscape. With the rivalry between these Texas teams heating up, Fertitta's comments add fuel to an already intense competition.