The Lone Star State’s Sports Dynasty
Everything is bigger in Texas, and this sentiment extends to the state’s rich sports culture. Texas is not only a hotbed for professional sports but also a breeding ground for some of the most talented athletes in the nation. The Lone Star State boasts 14 professional teams across all major sports leagues, including multiple teams in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. The Texas Rangers made headlines recently by clinching the World Series in 2023, while the San Antonio Spurs secured a significant victory in the 2023 NBA Draft by selecting the generational talent Victor Wembanyama with the No. 1 overall pick. Despite the high-profile departure of Luka Dončić, Texas remains a powerhouse of athletic talent, both in professional and college sports.
The Next Manning in the Making
One of the most exciting names on the college stage is Arch Manning, a quarterback for the University of Texas. Over his first two years, Arch has demonstrated significant potential, passing for just under 1,000 yards and tossing nine touchdowns with only two interceptions. With the departure of the team’s starting quarterback, Quinn Ewers, to the NFL, Arch is poised to take on a larger role in 2025. If he performs as expected, he could follow in the footsteps of his legendary family and join the NFL, bringing another Manning to the gridiron. The Manning legacy is synonymous with quarterback excellence, and Arch is well on his way to continuing that tradition.
A Slugger’s Legacy
Yordan Álvarez, a Cuban slugger for the Houston Astros, is one of the most fearsome hitters in Major League Baseball. Álvarez has consistently delivered, amassing four consecutive seasons with 30 or more home runs and earning All-Star status for three straight years. His clutch performances in the playoffs, particularly his ALCS MVP in 2021 and his contributions to the 2022 World Series title, highlight his invaluable role on the team. Despite being one of the few mistakes the Dodgers front office has made in recent years, Álvarez’s impact on the Astros is undeniable, making him a cornerstone of the franchise.
A New Era in Dallas
Anthony Davis’s arrival in Dallas via a trade was a seismic shift for the NBA, and his immediate impact has been nothing short of impressive. Davis, a 10-time All-Star, has consistently averaged 25 points and 10 rebounds per game over the past three seasons. He is one of just four players to achieve this feat, alongside Joel Embiid, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokić. Despite being relatively new to the Mavericks, Davis has shown that he can dominate the frontcourt and be a reliable leader for the team. His health will be key, but when he is on the floor, he is as good as any frontcourt player in the league.
The Return of Kyrie Irving
Kyrie Irving, the star point guard for the Dallas Mavericks, had a season marked by both high points and setbacks. His return to form was evident as he made the All-Star team for the first time since the 2022-23 season. However, a serious knee injury cut his season short, leaving his average at 24 points or more for six consecutive seasons. Irving’s scoring prowess and ability to create for his teammates make him a valuable asset, and his return next season will be crucial for the Mavericks’ success.
A Pro-Bowl Receiver
CeeDee Lamb, drafted by the Dallas Cowboys out of Oklahoma, has quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier receivers. Over the past four seasons, he has earned four Pro Bowls and been selected to an AP All-Pro team in each of the last three years. His production speaks for itself, as he is one of only five receivers to amass 5,000 receiving yards over the last four seasons, and he does it for the most valuable franchise in the NFL. Lamb’s combination of speed, agility, and route-running skills makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
A Championship Legend
José Altuve, the diminutive second baseman for the Houston Astros, is a player of legend. In his 14 years with the Astros, Altuve has helped lead the team to four World Series appearances and two World Series titles. His regular-season performances are equally impressive, having received MVP votes in eight different seasons and winning the award in 2017. Altuve’s embodiment of "heart over height" makes him a fan favorite and a key player in the Astros’ continued success. His consistency and leadership are invaluable assets to the team.
The Future is Bright
Davion Taylor Stroud, the quarterback for the Houston Texans, took a step back in 2024 but remains a bright spot for the franchise. After a stellar rookie season that saw him win Offensive Rookie of the Year and make the Pro Bowl, Stroud struggled to repeat his success, partly due to injuries in his receiving corps. Despite this, he still led the Texans to a 10-7 record and a Wild Card win over the Chargers. Stroud’s ability to deliver game-winning drives has shown his clutch capabilities, and his future with the Texans remains promising.
A Defensive Dynamo
Micah Parsons, the defensive force for the Dallas Cowboys, has quickly become one of the best defenders in the NFL. Since entering the league in 2021, Parsons has accumulated 250 total tackles and 50 sacks, a feat unmatched by any other player. His athleticism and production make him a true unicorn, and his impact on the Cowboys’ defense is immeasurable. Even with part of last season lost to injury, Parsons continues to set a high standard for defensive play.
The NBA’s New Phenom
Victor Wembanyama, the 7’3" center for the San Antonio Spurs, is a once-in-a-generation talent. His unique combination of height, movement, handle, and shooting ability sets him apart from any other player in the NBA. Despite missing the rest of the season, his numbers are staggering: 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, and nearly four assists per game, with shooting splits of 47.6/35.2/83.6. Wembanyama’s potential is limitless, and he is poised to revolutionize the way the game is played.
The Franchise Quarterback
Dak Prescott, the quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, is the biggest name on this list. Presiding over the most important position in the most popular sport in the country, Prescott has quietly built a remarkably consistent career. Since 2021, he is one of just four quarterbacks to have thrown 100 touchdown passes with fewer than 50 interceptions. Additionally, he is poised to break the franchise’s passing yardage record in 2025, a testament to his longevity and impact on the team. Prescott’s leadership and playmaking ability make him a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ success.
