City Hall and Downtown to Light Up Red in Honor of Team’s First Playoff Berth Since 2020

It’s time to break out the red gear, Houston! Mayor John Whitmire has officially proclaimed Thursday, April 17, as Houston Rockets RED DAY to celebrate the team’s thrilling return to the NBA Playoffs—their first appearance since the 2019-2020 season.

In a spirited show of city pride, Mayor Whitmire was joined by Rockets mascot Clutch, President of Business Operations Gretchen Sheirr, and Rockets legends and Hall of Famers Calvin Murphy and Elvin Hayes to rally Houstonians ahead of the team’s upcoming face-off against the Golden State Warriors.

“The City of Houston commends and celebrates the Houston Rockets on this remarkable achievement,” said Mayor Whitmire. “We encourage all residents to wear red, raise their voices, and show their support as the team begins its 2025 playoff run.”

To mark the occasion, City Hall and several downtown buildings will glow in Rockets red on Thursday evening. Fans across the city are encouraged to wear red on Thursday and cheer on their hometown team as they gear up for what promises to be an electric postseason.

After years of rebuilding, the Rockets’ playoff comeback is energizing fans and restoring hope for a deep postseason push.