The Houston Rockets are set to become Fertitta turf, with the franchise announcing that Tilman J. Fertitta – CNBC star and owner of the Landry’s restaurant empire – had locked in an agreement to add the club to his portfolio with reports stating that the deal was worth $2.2 billion, which would mark a record for the NBA. The transaction, which includes operation of the Toyota Center Arena, requires the approval of the NBA Board of Governors.

“I am truly honored to have been chosen as the next owner of the Houston Rockets. This is a life-long dream come true,” said Fertitta. “Leslie Alexander has been one of the best owners in all of sports, and I thank him immensely for this opportunity. He has the heart of a champion. Lastly, out of respect for the NBA’s approval process, I can say no more other than I am overwhelmed with emotion to have this opportunity in my beloved city of Houston.”

“I am excited to welcome and pass the torch to Tilman. He is a Houstonian, business leader and committed to the success and excellence of the Rockets both on and off the basketball court,” said Leslie Alexander, the current Rockets owner. “I have personally known Tilman for over 24 years and don’t think I could have found anyone more capable of continuing the winning tradition of our Houston Rockets.”