Texas basketball spans multiple levels — from three NBA franchises to powerhouse college programs and a thriving high school scene. Consequently, the state produces some of the best basketball talent in the country every year. This guide covers every level of Texas basketball from the NBA to college to high school.
NBA Basketball in Texas
Texas is home to three NBA franchises, making it one of the top NBA states in the country. All three teams carry championship pedigree that attracts national attention to Texas basketball each season.
- San Antonio Spurs — Five-time NBA Champions (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014), building around Victor Wembanyama in a new era
- Houston Rockets — Two-time NBA Champions (1994, 1995), known for the Hakeem Olajuwon dynasty
- Dallas Mavericks — NBA Champion in 2011 with Dirk Nowitzki, now entering a new era of competition
As a result of three major-market teams, Texas has produced more combined NBA championships than most other states. The rivalry between Spurs, Rockets, and Mavericks fans creates one of the most passionate regional basketball cultures in the US.
College Basketball in Texas
Texas college basketball features multiple programs competing at the highest NCAA Division I level. In contrast to football-dominated media coverage, Texas college basketball has produced March Madness runs and national championship contenders in recent years.
- Texas Longhorns — Now competing in the SEC, consistently ranked nationally with deep March Madness appearances
- Texas Tech Red Raiders — Reached the national championship game in 2019, built into an elite program
- Baylor Bears — 2021 NCAA National Champions, one of the strongest programs in college basketball
- Houston Cougars — Multiple Final Four appearances, Big 12 powerhouse
- TCU Horned Frogs — Competitive Big 12 program based in Fort Worth
Texas in the NCAA Tournament
Texas programs are a consistent presence in March Madness. Therefore, college basketball fans across the state follow multiple teams deep into the tournament bracket each spring. Baylor’s 2021 national championship was the most recent title for a Texas program, defeating Gonzaga in the final. Additionally, Texas and Houston regularly receive high seeds and advance deep into tournament play.
Texas High School Basketball
The University Interscholastic League governs high school basketball in Texas across six classification levels from 1A to 6A. Furthermore, Texas high school basketball has produced some of the greatest NBA players in history. The UIL State Basketball Tournament held annually at the Alamodome in San Antonio draws thousands of fans and is one of the largest high school sporting events in the country.
Women’s Basketball in Texas
The Dallas Wings compete in the WNBA as the state’s professional women’s team. Additionally, the Baylor Lady Bears women’s program has won three national championships and is consistently ranked among the top programs in the country. The Texas Longhorns women’s program also competes at a high level in the SEC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What NBA teams play in Texas?
Texas has three NBA teams: the San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, and Dallas Mavericks. All three have won NBA Championships.
What college basketball teams are in Texas?
Major Texas college basketball programs include the Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech Red Raiders, Baylor Bears, Houston Cougars, and TCU Horned Frogs.
Have the Texas Longhorns ever won a national basketball championship?
The University of Texas men’s basketball team has not won an NCAA national championship, though they have made multiple Final Four appearances.
Where do the San Antonio Spurs play?
The San Antonio Spurs play at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, which holds approximately 18,500 fans.
What is the biggest high school basketball tournament in Texas?
The UIL State Basketball Tournament held annually in San Antonio at the Alamodome is the largest high school basketball event in Texas.
Stay current with Texas sports in our Texas Sports section. You can also read our game recaps including Texas vs Ohio State and other Longhorn matchups. Additionally, check our Texas Football Schedule for complete Longhorn scheduling information.
