Rockets are Tough

HOUSTON, TX -- The Houston Rockets may be labeled as a soft team by fans; members of the media; opponents; etc. but Tracy McGrady and Ron Artest disagree with that viewpoint.

According to the two of them, the Houston Rockets are tough.

"Did we get the job done?" responded McGrady to a question from the media. "We got the job done. I mean this (basketball) ain't wrestling. We're not scared. He's (Ron Artest) tough. He's a tough guy.

"I'm not a punk or anything like that. I'm not going to get punked out there on the basketball court. I'm not scared. Yea, he's a tough guy. I'm tough, too."

Artest was asked this question, 'Did you think this team (the Rockets) was soft?'

"No," Artest answered matter-of-factly, "I keep hearing that. I just didn't see that. They didn't have the Kevin Garnett emotional-type players; but, they've got some tough players. The Rockets were one of the best defensive teams in the league last year; so, I guess it doesn't matter how tough you are. I guess it matters are smart are. I think I can bring both smarts and toughness to the team.

"Winning 22 (games) in a row is just not soft to me."