Like much of southeast Texas, the Rockets ran for higher ground as Hurricane Ike approached. But well before the ground had dried, many Rockets returned to the city and played a major role in the reconstruction of buildings and lives.

Hooking up with the "Feed the Children" program, about half the Rockets roster showed up at the University of Houston and helped load basic necessities onto trucks purchased by team owner Leslie Alexander. The effort helped Houston and its surrounding communities get back on their feet.

"It means a lot to me," Rafer Alston said of his participation. "I understand the situation that the city is in. So I rushed over here as fast as I could to help."

Some players suffered damage to their homes and property, but clearly the priority at this event was to aid the needy before helping themselves.

"It lets the community know we're right there with them," Chuck Hayes said. "A lot of us don't have power. Some of us have damages. It lets them know we're just like them. If we can't help them out with their livelihood, then we'll do whatever we can."

While the Rockets count on fan support 41 times during a basketball season, the franchise made it clear it's available to lend a hand 365 days a year.

"Mr. Alexander is always very clear: This is something that never ends with the beginning," Rockets CEO Tad Brown said. "So this is just the start of what we're going to do to help the community as we go forward."