Kevin Durant and Nike Launch NIL Partnership with Longhorn Star Madison Booker

NBA champion and University of Texas legend, Kevin Durant, has returned to his roots to launch a first-of-its-kind Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program specifically for Longhorn student-athletes.

The initiative, announced by Durant’s media network Boardroom, kicks off with a landmark partnership featuring Texas women’s basketball star Madison Booker.

Durant, a forward for the Houston Rockets who previously donated USD3 million (AUD4.2 million) to the university in 2018, is collaborating with Nike to provide selected student-athletes with elite resources.

As the program’s inaugural beneficiary, Booker will receive exclusive access to “KD Player Edition” (PE) footwear, custom apparel, and mentorship from Durant himself.

The “Kevin Durant” Connection: Why Madison Booker?

The selection of Madison Booker as the face of the program is no coincidence. The junior forward has gained national acclaim for a playing style that mirrors Durant’s own “point forward” versatility.

• The Jersey: Booker wears the #35, the same number Durant wore during his historic 2006-07 freshman season at Texas.
• The Mentality: Coach Vic Schaefer noted that Booker has “openly modeled her game after KD,” a commitment that has translated into elite production on the court.
• The Performance: In the 2025-26 season, Booker is averaging 18.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. She recently led the No. 4 Longhorns to their first-ever SEC Tournament Championship, earning Tournament MVP honors after a dominant win over South Carolina.

Building a Business Legacy

Beyond footwear and apparel, the partnership introduces a long-term educational component for the entire Texas athletic department.

Durant, Nike, and the University will host an annual sports business summit in Austin, starting later this year.

The summit is designed to prepare student-athletes for life beyond the court, featuring:

• Marquee Speakers: Industry leaders from sports, tech, and media.
• Creative Strategy: Sessions on content creation and storytelling in the digital age.
• Financial Literacy: Practical planning for wealth management and NIL opportunities.

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