When you think of Houston Rockets legends, names like Hakeem Olajuwon and James Harden immediately come to mind. But the team's rich history is also built on the grit and determination of players like Larry Smith, a forward who proudly wore the No. 13 jersey during his tenure with the franchise.

Smith's journey to Houston began after a standout college career at Alcorn State, where he caught the eye of NBA scouts. Selected with the 24th overall pick in the 1980 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors, the Rolling Fork, Mississippi native spent the first nine seasons of his professional career in the Bay Area. It wasn't until 1989 that he signed with the Rockets, bringing his physical style of play to the Clutch City.

During his three seasons in Houston (1989-1992), Smith exclusively wore jersey No. 13. While his scoring average of 3.0 points per game might not jump off the page, his impact was felt on the boards. He pulled down an impressive 7.1 rebounds per game, showcasing the kind of hustle and tenacity that defines a true team player. He also contributed 1.0 assists per game, rounding out a stat line that speaks to his role as a reliable frontcourt presence.

In the grand tapestry of Rockets jersey history, No. 13 has been worn by 11 different players. Smith is the fourth to don the number, and his time in Houston serves as a reminder that every player, regardless of their scoring stats, plays a vital role in a team's identity. After his stint with the Rockets, Smith signed with the San Antonio Spurs in 1992, closing out a solid NBA career that began with such promise in 1980.

For fans who appreciate the unsung heroes of the game, Larry Smith's No. 13 Rockets jersey represents a piece of history—a tribute to the blue-collar work ethic that helped shape the franchise's enduring legacy.