Rockets LaunchPod

Kelly Iko, Rockets beat writer for The Athletic, shares his observations after spending a week at the 2022 NBA draft combine in Chicago. In addition to watching prospects, Iko also spoke with many Rockets executives and staffers — including general manager Rafael Stone — after Houston secured the No. 3 overall pick in the draft lottery. As part of this podcast, Iko fills us in on some key takeaways from those conversations.Other topics on this episode include analysis of why Duke’s Paolo Banchero

Craig Ackerman, voice of the Rockets, joins Friday’s show with reaction to the 2022 NBA draft lottery results and its implications for Houston. Other topics include Jalen Green earning All-Rookie First Team honors; takeaways on Kevin Porter Jr., Christian Wood, and Stephen Silas; and reflections on Craig’s first year as the full-time TV broadcaster alongside new analyst Ryan Hollins.

Gretchen Sheirr, president of business operations for the Houston Rockets, joins the inaugural episode of The Lager Line podcast, sponsored by Clutch City Lager of Karbach Brewing. Topics on the show include highlights and takeaways from her first year as president; the importance of stability and diversity in the team’s leadership; strategies to get fans, sponsors, and partners on board with a rebuild; what the 2022 offseason and 2022-23 season may look like for business and events; and much