Report: Rockets get permission to interview Sam Cassell

The Houston Rockets' next head coach could be a familiar face.

Houston has received permission to interview Philadelphia 76ers assistant Sam Cassell and is looking to speak with the ex-Rockets star at some point during the playoffs, a source told Jonathan Feigen of The Houston Chronicle.

The former All-Star guard was a member of Houston's title-winning teams in 1994 and 1995.

Cassell immediately entered coaching after a successful 16-year playing career. Over the last 14 years, he has been an assistant for the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Clippers, and 76ers.

Cassell has been lauded for his previous work with guards, most notably John Wall and Ben Simmons. Houston's backcourt features a promising young duo in former No. 2 overall pick Jalen Green and Kevin Porter.

The Rockets recently split with Stephen Silas after three seasons. Their shortlist reportedly includes Golden State Warriors associate head coach Kenny Atkinson, Toronto Raptors assistant Adrian Griffin, ex-Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka, former Los Angeles Lakers bench boss Frank Vogel, and ex-Charlotte Hornets head coach James Borrego.