Mutombo raised nearly $2 billion in failed Rockets bid

Dikembe Mutombo fell just short of buying the Houston Rockets.

Mutombo amassed nearly $2 billion with his group of investors, but that gargantuan amount wasn't enough as a winning bid of $2.2 billion from Tilman Fertitta was ultimately accepted by ex-owner Les Alexander.

"We did raise a lot of money. I raised close to $2 billion, but we just didn't get a call, and it happens," Mutombo told Mark Berman of Fox 26.

"I was very happy with myself. I'm not crying for the fact that we didn't win. I'm more happy that I was able to pull people together who did believe in my vision to put up that much money. I might be disappointed, but I'm not crying. Things happen, and sometimes they happen for a good reason."

Mutombo is a beloved figure in Houston and would have made for an amicable franchise ambassador. The Hall of Famer capped his illustrious career with a five-year stint on the Rockets, and played an important role in four playoff runs.

But he'll continue to be a constant presence around the Rockets despite losing his bid to Fertitta.

"I've known Tilman for a long time," Mutombo said. "I'm happy he got the team. He's a great businessman. I think he's going to follow the spirit of Uncle Les and his vision. I look forward to going to the games and cheering for my Rockets."