How a Georgia basketball franchise transformed into a Texas professional basketball powerhouse
In short: The Austin Spurs began their journey in Columbus, Georgia, as the Riverdragons before finding a new home in Texas. Since their relocation and subsequent acquisition by the San Antonio Spurs, the franchise has evolved into a championship-winning organization, navigating league changes and international tournaments while shaping future basketball talent.
The franchise originated in Columbus, Georgia, as the Columbus Riverdragons. In 2005, Southwest Basketball, LLC purchased the team and relocated it to Austin, Texas. Upon arrival, the team rebranded as the Austin Toros, becoming the first D-League team to adopt a Spanish-origin nickname. The team began playing under this identity during the 2005–06 season. A significant turning point occurred on June 28, 2007, when the San Antonio Spurs acquired the Toros, marking the second instance of an NBA team owning a D-League franchise.
The team's trajectory shifted further in 2010 when they moved their home games from the Austin Convention Center to the Cedar Park Center, now known as the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park. Success followed, with the Toros securing their first championship on April 28, 2012, by defeating the Los Angeles D-Fenders. By October 15, 2014, the team fully aligned with its parent organization, adopting the name Austin Spurs and updating its branding to match the silver and black motif of the San Antonio Spurs.
The organization has continued to reach new milestones, including winning a second G League championship on April 10, 2018, against Raptors 905. In 2019, the team made history as the first G League squad to participate in the FIBA Intercontinental Cup in Rio de Janeiro. Despite facing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced an abbreviated 2020–21 season in an Orlando bubble, the franchise has maintained a consistent presence in the league. Leadership has evolved over the years, with figures like Tyler Self, Brent Barry, and current general manager Josh Larson guiding the team, while Chris Kent was appointed head coach on September 10, 2026.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Austin Spurs
- Also: Wikidata — Austin Spurs · CC0
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/places-austin-spurs.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Bodies of water · More in Countries & Cities · Latest · A–Z · All topics
