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sports7h ago
On This Day in Rockets History: The Kiss of Death
- Mario Elie hit the clutch go-ahead 3-pointer in Game 7 at Phoenix with 7.1 seconds left, sending Houston to the Western Conference Finals.
- The Kiss of Death moment came after Elie’s shot, when he blew a kiss toward the Suns bench.
- Houston became the fifth team in NBA history to overcome a 3-1 deficit en route to a title run in 1995.
- Elie’s role helped Houston reach the Western Conference Finals and win the NBA title in 1995.
- Elie was a key performer in the Rockets’ 1994–95 championship run, contributing significant playoff scoring and three-point shooting.
- Elie earned a reputation as the Rockets’ 'junkyard dog' for his toughness and busy play.
- The Rockets’ 1994–95 playoffs featured strong three-point shooting, contributing to their title run.
- Elie retired in 2001 after a 15-season career with various teams and overseas stints.
- Elie later won a third NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs in 1999.
- The piece places the Kiss of Death among Houston’s most iconic playoff moments.
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