The 2025-26 NBA season has commenced, showcasing Texas as a prominent source of talent for the league. A total of **29 players** who graduated from high schools in Texas are currently on NBA rosters. Additionally, six players spent at least two years in Texas high schools before transferring to institutions in Missouri or Florida. This trend highlights the state’s significant role in producing professional basketball talent.
According to the **NBA’s opening night roster**, Texas contributed **32 players** in the previous season. The **Detroit Pistons** head the pack with four players hailing from the Lone Star State, including former No. 1 overall draft pick **Cade Cunningham**. Both the **San Antonio Spurs** and the defending NBA champions, the **Oklahoma City Thunder**, feature three players each from Texas high schools. Remarkably, **22** NBA teams have at least one Texan on their roster.
Notable Texas Players and Their High Schools
The players from Texas are making significant impacts across various teams. Here’s a look at some of these athletes and their respective high schools:
– **Atlanta Hawks**: Keaton Wallace, Richardson
– **Boston Celtics**: Jordan Walsh, Dallas Oak Cliff Faith Family (through junior year)/Link Academy
– **Brooklyn Nets**: Jalen Wilson, Denton John H. Guyer
– **Charlotte Hornets**: Liam McNeely, Richardson JJ Pearce (freshman year)/Plano John Paul II (sophomore year)/Montverde Academy
– **Cleveland Cavaliers**: Jarrett Allen, Austin St. Stephen’s Episcopal; Jaylon Tyson, Plano John Paul II
– **Detroit Pistons**: Cade Cunningham, Arlington James Bowie (freshman and sophomore years)/Montverde Academy; Ron Holland II, Duncanville; Daniss Jenkins, Dallas Hillcrest; Marcus Sasser, Red Oak
The **Golden State Warriors** feature Jimmy Butler from Tomball, while the **Houston Rockets** have Isaiah Crawford from Fort Worth North Crowley. The **Indiana Pacers** include Pascal Siakam from Lewisville God’s Academy, and the **Los Angeles Lakers** roster has Jarred Vanderbilt from Houston Victory Prep.
Other notable players include **Myles Turner** of the **Milwaukee Bucks**, who hails from Euless Trinity, and **Julius Randle** of the **Minnesota Timberwolves**, representing Plano Prestonwood Christian.
In total, the **New York Knicks** have Kevin McCullar Jr. from San Antonio Wagner, while the **Oklahoma City Thunder** showcase Alex Caruso from College Station A&M Consolidated.
Impact of Texas High Schools on NBA Talent
The influence of Texas high schools on the NBA is undeniable. The combination of competitive programs and nurturing environments has proven beneficial for young athletes. Schools like **Montverde Academy** and **Link Academy** have emerged as key players in the development of talent, attracting student-athletes from across the country.
The trend of Texas players making their mark in the NBA reflects the state’s deep-rooted basketball culture. With 22 teams featuring players from Texas, it is clear that local high schools will continue to be a vital pipeline for aspiring professional athletes.
As the 2025-26 NBA season progresses, the contributions of Texas high school graduates will be closely watched by fans and scouts alike. With each game, these players not only represent their teams but also the legacy of Texas basketball.
