MoS2/reduced graphene oxide composites (MoS2/rGO) were successfully prepared by a designed tris (hydroxymethyl)methyl aminomethane (named THAM)-assisted hydrothermal method, which involves the modification of THAM on the surfaces of graphene oxide via hydrogen bonds and then the adsorption of MoO42- on the decorated surfaces due to the electrostatic attraction. The three-dimensional framework of interconnected rGO nanosheets provides good electronic conductivity and facile strain release during the electrochemical reaction, thus enhancing the overall performance of the MoS2-based electrode. Herein, the composite delivers high specific capacity, excellent cycling stability and rate performance for lithium- and sodium-ions batteries (LIBs and SIBs). The MoS2/rGO anode exhibits capacities of 880 mAh g(-1) at 1 A g(-1) after 200 cycles and 396 mAh g(-1) even at 2 A g(-1) after 2000 cycles for LIBs. As to SIBS, the reversible capacities of 485 mAh g(-1) and 339 mAh g(-1) can be retained at 0.1 A g(-1) after 60 cycles and 0.5 A g(-1) after 300 cycles, respectively. Our results demonstrate that the MoS2/rGO anode is one of the attractive anodes for LIBs and SIBS. Furthermore, the facile method can be extended to biosensing, catalytic, and biomedical applications. (C) 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.