Kevin Durant is one of the NBA’s true veterans.
In his 19th season with the Houston Rockets, he still influences the game on and off the court. His presence this year kept eyes on his every move. But Durant’s latest play isn’t a jumper. It’s a new NIL program at The University of Texas that pairs him with Nike.
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The initiative gives Longhorn athletes early access to KD player exclusives and apparel. It also ties in Durant’s media company, Boardroom, which will host an annual sports business summit for student-athletes. The program will be a boost in financial literacy, content strategy and basic business skills. Texas officials say future signings across basketball and other sports are coming.
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Madison Booker is the first Longhorn to sign. Booker will receive KD player exclusives, Nike gear and support through the program.
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“It means a lot to be a Nike athlete,” said Madison Booker per texaslonghorns.com. “Honestly, it’s a blessing. I think that’s also part of why I came to UT – the opportunities here are amazing.”
Coach Vic Schaefer praised her work and noted she models parts of her game after Durant.
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NEW: Kevin Durant has teamed up with Nike to create an NIL program at his alma mater, Texas🤘
Longhorn athletes get early access to KD exclusives, and women's basketball star Madison Booker is the first athlete to sign a deal.
Story: https://t.co/kPCH2SmRc6 pic.twitter.com/wwWMZw2BSJ
— On3 NIL (@On3NIL) March 10, 2026
Nike framed the partnership as athlete-first. Karie Conner said the company wants to help athletes shape their legacy. Texas athletics director Chris Del Conte called the collaboration “special” and said it will be the start of big things for the program.
Today, Kevin Durant and The University of Texas announced a comprehensive NIL program that will celebrate a select group of Longhorn student-athletes in their continued basketball journeys.
In partnership with Nike, Texas women’s basketball forward Madison Booker will become the… pic.twitter.com/5xKH1FTroI
— Boardroom (@boardroom) March 10, 2026
Durant’s move follows a trend of active pros teaming with schools. Last year, Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes expanded his “Team Mahomes” project with adidas at Texas Tech. This shows top pros are leaning into college partnerships in new ways.
The deal at Texas mixes branding, education and on-campus access. It’s simple and smart. College athletes get gear, exposure and business know-how. That sounds like a win.
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