If Kevin Durant wasn’t already the most iconic athlete in Austin, he certainly is now. The Houston Rockets’ superstar recently announced that he is opening the Austin Sports Club in downtown Austin, Texas.
Durant already has a huge following and strong presence in the city, and his newest contribution is the opening of a high-end restaurant and bar. But there is more to the Austin Sports Club. He has an innovative outlook, as it not only has the atmosphere of a social club, but will also have high-quality television for the sports fans.
The Austin Sports Club will also have a more intimate feel, as there will be a dark and romantic lighting for the personal booths. Whether the customers are looking to cheer their team on or whether they want a romantic date, the Austin Sports Club will be a new and exciting destination.
Durant’s presence in Austin has been prominent since 2006. Durant played his freshman year of college basketball for the University of Texas Longhorns. Although he played only a single season for the Texas Longhorns, he still maintains a strong bond with them because of his impressive performances. Durant played for the Texas Longhorns in the 2006-2007 season and became the first freshman to win the National Player of the Year award.
His year with them is still regarded as one of the most dominant campaigns by an individual player across the history of college basketball. Durant played 35 games and averaged 25.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists, to go along with 1.9 steals and 1.9 blocks per game. Durant shot 40.4% from three-point range, and broke the single-season scoring record by accruing 903 total points.Durant’s connection with the school did not end after his legendary season.
Durant actively visits the college and even mentors players at the college. One year after winning the 2017 NBA Finals MVP, Durant donated an incredible$3 million to the University of Texas, of which $2.5 million was allocated to Texas Basketball.Durant continues to support and improve the college and launched the NIL program in March 2026. The Name, Image, and Likeness program works with Longhorn athletes. One way it does so is via exclusive product endorsements.
There are many famous athletes with strong presences in Austin, such as Lance Armstrong, Drew Brees, Vince Young, and Scottie Scheffler. However, Durant’s ongoing investment and influence resonate throughout the city.
If the opening Austin Sports Club is a success, it will make the most iconic and influential athlete in Austin today.