Biography of Leslie Alexander

Leslie L. Alexander has a Bachelor of Science in Economics from New York University and Juris Doctorate degree from what is now known as the Thomas Jefferson Law School. He was admitted to the California Bar in 1978.

Leslie Alexander assumed ownership of the Houston Rockets on July 30, 1993, and – over the last years – has devoted his efforts to making his teams champions both on the basketball court and in the community. Alexander’s dedication to winning has resulted in two NBA Championships with the Rockets and four WNBA Titles with the Houston Comets; giving Houston its first professional sports championships. In 2008, Forbes recognized the integral role Alexander has played in the Rockets’ success by naming him the NBA’s best owner. The article details how Alexander’s management style has not only produced a winning track record for the Rockets but also one of the most well-run and lucrative franchises in the NBA. Off the court, the Rockets franchise has set the standard for community involvement over the last decade.

In 2003, Alexander’s commitment to construct a new home for the Rockets was rewarded with the opening of Toyota Center – Houston’s state-of-the-art multi-purpose sports facility. Alexander, who has held the longest ownership tenure in franchise history, continues to strive for peak success both on and off the court.

Charitable giving has always been a way of life for Alexander. In 1995, Alexander established the Clutch City Foundation with the goal of providing help, hope, and inspiration to those who might otherwise be forgotten. Through the Clutch City Foundation, the Houston Rockets are involved in a multitude of community service and charity fundraising programs. The Clutch City Foundation funds operate comprehensive programs benefiting thousands of children.

In 1997, Alexander and the Houston Rockets were honored with the Pro Team Community Award given by the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame. This award recognizes one professional team each year that exemplifies community service and acts as a catalyst for community spirit and pride.

In 1998, the Rockets were awarded the “Leadership Houston” Leadership in Action award for outstanding community service to education.

In 2002 and 2003, Alexander donated to Goodfellows, two of the largest single contributions in the program’s history. The Houston Chronicle project, Goodfellows, provides holiday gifts to needy children ages two through 10.

Leslie Alexander is also the founder of the Evelyn Alexander Home for Animals Foundation (EAHFA) in Middleburg, Virginia. It is his vision to provide a permanent sanctuary to abandoned and abused animals.  EAHFA ensures the animals will no longer face the fear of cruelty, neglect or displacement for the entirety of their lives while also receiving the highest standard of care and rehabilitation.