The 2001–02 NBA season was the Rockets' 35th season in the National Basketball Association, 31st season in the city of Houston, and their 27th and penultimate season at Compaq Center. During the offseason, the Rockets acquired All-Star forward Glen Rice from the New York Knicks, and re-acquired Kevin Willis from the Milwaukee Bucks. However, Rice only played just 20 games due to a foot injury. The Rockets got off to a 7–5 start, but then suffered a dreadful 15-game losing streak. The season saw team captain Steve Francis make his first All-Star appearance, but he only played 57 games, and starting 56 of them due to recurring foot injuries and migraines. Due to injuries that hindered their roster for parts of the year, the Rockets played mediocre basketball all season, finishing fifth in the Midwest Division with a disappointing 28–54 record. Following the season, Walt Williams signed as a free agent with the Dallas Mavericks, and Willis signed with the San Antonio Spurs.

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