Basketball: Hall of Famer Murphy dismissed as Rockets TV analyst

HOUSTON (AP) - NBA Hall of Famer Calvin Murphy, facing a trial on charges of sexually abusing five of his daughters more than 10 years ago, was fired Friday as the Houston Rockets' television analyst.

"This was a decision based on the best interests of all parties," said Tad Brown, the team's senior vice president of sales, marketing and broadcasting. "Calvin has had a long relationship with the Rockets and we feel that his energies need to be focused on dealing with his legal matters."

Murphy, 55, was indicted July 1 and named in six counts - three of aggravated sexual assault and three of indecency with a child. He remains free on $20,000 bond and has insisted he is innocent, contending the allegations stem from a family dispute over money.

Murphy played for the Rockets from 1970-83 and worked as TV analyst for the club for the past 14 seasons.

"We appreciate all that he has done during his years as a player and broadcaster for the organization," Brown said.