NBA legend Mutombo looking to purchase Houston Rockets

NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo with his signature finger wag  (AP Photo/David Goldman)

The Houston Rockets are currently experiencing a major shake-up on their roster and front-office personnel.

News that team owner Leslie Alexander has put the Western Conference powerhouse team up for sale hugged headlines earlier this week.

Several interested buyers have already stepped up to the plate, including NBA Hall of Famer and former Rockets player Dikembe Mutombo.

“I’m working on it,” the 51-year-old Congolese-American told Fox 26 regarding the possible purchase.

“I’m talking to a lot of people already since [Monday]. We’ll see. I’m just talking to the people who can cut the check and they can make me be part of it. I’m working on that.”

Mutombo, who retired as a Rocket after serving as Yao Ming’s back-up from 2004 to 2009, shared his willingness to purchase the franchise after missing the opportunity to buy his former team, Atlanta Hawks, in 2015.

“A lot of people think it’s a great thing. It’s a great opportunity. Now it’s just a question of the number,” he said.

“There’s going to be a lot of discussion and a lot of cash. I missed my opportunity two years ago with the Atlanta Hawks.”

The polarizing figure, once known as “Mt. Mutombo,” also acknowledged the Rockets as a strong contender this year, with Chris Paul joining James Harden under coach Mike D’Antoni’s uptempo system.

“It’s like someone who’s already sitting on the runway trying to take off,” he noted. “That’s what kind of team the Rockets are right now. The Rockets are a great franchise. They have a great team. They’ve got great coaches, great basketball players, great staff. Whoever is coming in, it’s not like they’re going to have to rebuild it.”

He added: “It’s one of the best franchises right now. It’s really the right time.”  Khristian Ibarrola /ra