Wed Oct 15 01:20:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**The Ringer Crowns 2018 Houston Rockets “Best NBA Team to Never Reach Finals”**

**Los Angeles, CA** – The Ringer, as part of its ongoing “NBA Quarter-Century Week,” has declared the 2018 Houston Rockets as the greatest NBA team never to reach the NBA Finals. The site’s in-depth analysis, part of a larger project examining the best of the last 25 years, highlights the Rockets’ innovative play style, statistical dominance, and ultimately, their heartbreaking near-miss.

Led by MVP James Harden and veteran point guard Chris Paul, and coached by Mike D’Antoni, the 2018 Rockets boasted a regular-season record of 65-17 and the league’s best offensive rating. Their commitment to analytics, particularly their relentless pursuit of three-point shots, revolutionized offensive strategies across the NBA.

However, the Rockets’ season was derailed in the Western Conference Finals against the Golden State Warriors. A hamstring injury to Chris Paul in Game 5, followed by an unprecedented 27 consecutive missed three-pointers in Game 7, sealed their fate.

“Their series with the Warriors will forever be remembered as a what-if story, the Rockets beating themselves more than being defeated,” The Ringer’s analysis states. “Injuries and a cold shooting streak at the worst possible time kept them from reaching their deserved destination.”

Despite the bitter ending, The Ringer argues that the 2018 Rockets deserve recognition for their impact on the game. They were a bold, disciplined, and influential team that pushed the boundaries of offensive basketball. While they ultimately fell short, their legacy as one of the most innovative and unforgettable teams of the past 25 years is secure.

“NBA Quarter-Century Week” continues on The Ringer with features on other memorable teams and players, reflecting on the past, present, and future of the sport.

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