As the NBA hits its unofficial midway point with the All-Star Game tipping off in Inglewood, California, there's a subtle but significant Texas-sized footprint all over this year's festivities-and not just because of Kevin Durant’s latest All-Star nod.
Durant, the former Texas Longhorn and now a key piece for the Houston Rockets, is making his 14th All-Star appearance in what’s been a remarkable 18-year career. Averaging 25.9 points per game this season, he’s still operating at an elite level and continues to climb the all-time scoring list-currently sitting at No. 6 in NBA history with 31,815 points.
If he keeps this pace, he’s on track to pass Michael Jordan (32,292) later this year. And let’s not forget his dominance on the international stage-Durant has four Olympic gold medals and holds the all-time scoring record for Team USA with 518 points.
But Durant isn’t the only Texas college product making noise in the league. In fact, 24 active NBA players once suited up for Texas-based universities, with Baylor leading the pack with seven alumni currently in the league. Texas follows with six, and Houston isn’t far behind with five.
Here’s a deeper look at the Texas college pipeline and the players who are making their mark in the NBA:
Jarrett Allen (Texas - Cavaliers): Now in his ninth season, Allen has become a reliable anchor in the middle for Cleveland. The former Longhorn and 2022 All-Star is averaging 14.5 points per game and leads the team in shooting percentage at 61.5%. His efficiency and rim protection continue to be a stabilizing force for the Cavs.
Desmond Bane (TCU - Magic): Since being drafted in the first round in 2020, Bane has steadily developed into a key offensive weapon. He’s currently third in scoring for Orlando, putting up 19.5 points per game and providing a steady perimeter threat.
V.J. Edgecombe (Baylor - 76ers): Philadelphia’s third overall pick in the 2025 draft is off to a strong rookie campaign. Edgecombe is averaging 14.9 points and 4.2 assists, showing poise and playmaking ability beyond his years.
Jaxson Hayes (Texas - Lakers): The former Big 12 Freshman of the Year is contributing 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds off the bench for the Lakers, offering energy and athleticism in limited minutes.
Quenton Jackson (Texas A&M - Pacers): Jackson has carved out a rotational role in Indiana, starting nine games this season and averaging 7.8 points per game. He’s providing solid minutes and showing he belongs at this level.
Tre Johnson (Texas - Wizards): The sixth pick in the 2025 draft, Johnson is logging 25 minutes per game and averaging 12.9 points. He’s been a bright spot for Washington as they continue to rebuild.
Emanuel Miller (TCU - Bulls): Miller recently landed in Chicago as part of a three-team deal involving the Kings and Cavaliers. Still early in his rookie season, he’ll look to find his footing in a new system.
Khris Middleton (Texas A&M - Wizards): A seasoned vet and former All-Star, Middleton is contributing 10.3 points per game for Washington. Drafted in the second round back in 2012, he’s built a strong career through consistency and shot-making.
Royce O’Neale (Houston - Suns): One of the league’s better role players, O’Neale leads Phoenix in games played (48) this season. He’s averaging 10.3 points and 4.9 rebounds, providing versatility and toughness on both ends of the floor.
Taurean Prince (Baylor - Bucks): A first-round pick in 2016, Prince has suited up for six different teams. Currently sidelined with an injury, he’s been a solid veteran presence when healthy.
Jamal Shead (Houston - Raptors): The 2024 Big 12 Player of the Year has made a smooth transition to the pros. Shead leads Toronto in games played (54) and is averaging 6.9 points and 5.4 assists, proving to be a steady floor general.
Jericho Sims (Texas - Bucks): A second-round pick in 2021, Sims has appeared in 37 games this season for Milwaukee, giving them frontcourt depth and rebounding.
Myles Turner (Texas - Bucks): Now in his 11th season, Turner remains one of the league’s premier shot blockers. He’s averaging 12.9 points and 5.7 rebounds, and he leads the Bucks in starts this year with 50. His rim protection continues to be a major asset.
Jerace Walker (Houston - Pacers): A first-round pick in 2023, Walker is averaging 10.3 points per game. He’s showing flashes of the two-way potential that made him a top prospect.
Ja’Kobe Walter (Baylor - Raptors): In his second year with Toronto, Walter is contributing 8.6 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, giving the Raptors another young piece to develop.
Kenrich Williams (TCU - Thunder): A key contributor for the defending champs, Williams is averaging 6.7 points across 34 games. His versatility and hustle have earned him a consistent role in OKC’s rotation.
From established stars like Durant and Turner to rising rookies like Edgecombe and Shead, Texas college programs continue to churn out NBA-ready talent. Whether it’s Baylor’s deep bench of pros, Texas’ long-standing pipeline, or Houston’s recent surge, the Lone Star State is well-represented across the league-and not just in the box scores. These players are shaping rotations, leading teams, and in some cases, defining eras.
As the All-Star break gives us a moment to take stock of the season so far, one thing’s clear: If you’re looking for impact in the NBA, you don’t have to look much further than the Texas college basketball scene.