AUSTIN, Texas – The San Antonio Spurs are experiencing a resurgence, riding a nine-game winning streak and positioning themselves for a potential top spot in the Western Conference. But for a stretch of games each season, their home court isn’t in San Antonio—it’s at the Moody Center in Austin, as part of the team’s “I-35 Series.” This weekend, the Spurs return to Austin to face the Sacramento Kings, continuing a tradition that’s become more than just a marketing play; it’s a cultural bridge and a developmental pipeline for the franchise.
The Spurs’ presence in Austin has evolved since its inception. What began as an effort to expand the team’s fanbase in Central Texas has blossomed into something deeper, fostering a strong connection with the city’s basketball community. The Moody Center, the University of Texas’ state-of-the-art arena, has quickly become a favored venue for the team and its players.
A Second Home in Austin
““[The Moody Center] is like our second home,”” Zay Zay Aquino, the Spurs’ in-arena host, told KXAN. The sentiment is echoed by players like Keldon Johnson, the longest-tenured Spur, who sees Austin as a crucial part of his basketball journey. Johnson, reflecting on his early career, remembers Austin and the G League as “home base.”
Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for returning to Austin, stating, ““It’s something special…My whole first year…I had the privilege of playing for the fans in Austin. Being able to come back and place on a demonstrate for this fanbase is very important to me. Here’s where it all started for me.”” The forward clearly cherishes the connection with Austin fans, viewing the games at the Moody Center as a significant opportunity to engage with the community.
