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Five former Texas A&M basketball stars enter 2026-27 NBA season
Oct 15, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Caruso (9) reacts after scoring a basket during the second quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The 2026–27 NBA season is here, and Texas A&M will once again have several familiar faces representing the program at basketball's highest level.

Five former Aggies enter the new season on NBA rosters, ranging from established veterans with championship experience to younger players continuing to carve out roles. Alex Caruso, Khris Middleton, Robert Williams III, Quenton Jackson and DeAndre Jordan make up this year's group.

Caruso, Middleton and Jordan have already won NBA championships, while Williams has established himself as a defensive presence when healthy. Jackson, meanwhile, continues building his professional career after working his way into the league as an undrafted free agent.

Here's a closer look at the five former Texas A&M standouts entering the 2026–27 NBA season.

Alex Caruso − Oklahoma City Thunder

Caruso has come a long way since his days in College Station, developing into one of the NBA's most respected perimeter defenders. The former Aggie helped Oklahoma City win the 2025 NBA championship, adding another title to the one he earned with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.

Now entering his third season with the Thunder, Caruso remains an important defensive piece for a team looking to compete for another championship. His ability to guard multiple positions, force turnovers and contribute without needing the ball has helped him maintain a valuable role throughout his career.

Kris Middleton − Washington Wizards

Aug 5, 2021; Saitama, Japan; United States forward Kris Middleton (8) attempts to dunk the ball against Australia in the first quarter during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Summer Games at Saitama Super Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Middleton is one of the most accomplished NBA players to come through Texas A&M. After being selected in the second round of the 2012 NBA Draft, he developed into a three-time All-Star and helped Milwaukee win the 2021 NBA championship.

The veteran forward enters another season with Washington after injuries and changes in his role have affected his production in recent years. Although he is no longer putting up the numbers from his prime in Milwaukee, Middleton brings experience, shooting and leadership to a young Wizards roster.

Robert Williams III – Portland Trail Blazers

Sep 28, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers center Robert Williams III (35) during media day at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Williams was one of the SEC's most dominant defensive players during his two seasons at Texas A&M, earning SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors twice before becoming a first-round selection in the 2018 NBA Draft.

His NBA career has featured impressive defensive performances, particularly during his time with the Boston Celtics. However, injuries have repeatedly interrupted his progress. Williams appeared in 59 games last season, providing Portland with a reliable defensive presence off the bench.

The Trail Blazers rewarded that progress during the offseason, signing Williams to a three-year contract extension worth approximately $44 million. He enters the new season looking to build on that momentum and continue providing rebounding, shot-blocking and interior defense.

Quenton Jackson – Indiana Pacers

Oct 10, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA;  Indiana Pacers guard Quenton Jackson (29) shoots the ball while Atlanta Hawks forward Corey Kispert (24) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.  Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Jackson took a different path to the NBA after finishing his college career at Texas A&M. The former Aggie went undrafted in 2022 but continued working through the G League and limited NBA opportunities before earning a larger role with Indiana.

Jackson enters the 2026–27 season looking to build on his progress with the Pacers. His athleticism, defensive effort and ability to attack the basket have helped him earn opportunities, and another productive season could further establish his place in Indiana's rotation.

Deandre Jordan − New Orleans Pelicans

Sep 28, 2026; New Orleans, LA, USA;  New Orleans Pelicans center DeAndre Jordan (6) takes part in media day at Smoothie King Center.  Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Jordan remains one of Texas A&M's longest-tenured NBA products. After spending one season in College Station, the former Aggie became a second-round selection in the 2008 NBA Draft and developed into one of the league's most productive rebounders and rim protectors.

Now 38, Jordan enters the season with New Orleans after a lengthy career that included his best years with the Los Angeles Clippers and an NBA championship with Denver in 2023. His playing time has declined, but his experience and veteran presence remain valuable as he continues his professional career.

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