There’s a rich tapestry woven into every Houston Rockets jersey, and the number 14 has its own unique story. From the team’s founding in 1967 to today, over 500 players have worn 52 different numbers—and seven of those jerseys now hang in the rafters. But for the 2018-19 season, number 14 belonged to a hometown hero: Gerald Green.

Green’s path to the Rockets was anything but ordinary. He made the bold leap straight from high school to the NBA, selected 18th overall by the Boston Celtics in 2005. After stints in Boston, Minnesota, and a first taste of Houston in 2008, his career took him to Dallas, overseas leagues, New Jersey, Indiana, Phoenix, Miami, and back to Boston. It wasn’t until 2018 that he returned to his hometown team for a final, unforgettable act.

In his second stint with the Rockets, Green exclusively wore number 14, averaging 10.2 points and 2.8 rebounds per game. More than just stats, he brought an explosive energy and a deep connection to the city—a fitting chapter in the long history of a jersey that’s seen legends and role players alike.

Whether you’re a collector or a fan, every number tells a story. Green’s number 14 is a reminder that sometimes the best stories come full circle.