The Hall of Honor welcomes a Longhorn great: Royal Ivey
The University of Texas has always been home to legendary athletes, but one name that stands out in the history of Longhorn basketball is Royal Ivey. Known for his tenacity, leadership, and work ethic both on and off the court, Ivey’s contributions to Texas basketball have solidified his place as one of the program’s all-time greats. Recently, Ivey was inducted into the prestigious Texas Longhorns Hall of Honor, an acknowledgment of his outstanding career at Texas and his impact on the sport of basketball.
The Hall of Honor, which celebrates the most iconic athletes in Texas sports history, is reserved for individuals who not only achieved greatness on the field but who also exemplify the values that define the University of Texas: excellence, perseverance, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Royal Ivey’s induction is a fitting tribute to a player whose career was defined by both his athletic prowess and his enduring influence within the Longhorns community.
Royal Ivey arrived at the University of Texas in the fall of 2000, entering the program as one of the most highly anticipated recruits in the country. Hailing from Dallas, Texas, Ivey was a standout player at Bryan Adams High School, where he earned All-State honors and drew the attention of college scouts across the nation. At the time, Texas basketball was beginning to experience a resurgence under head coach Rick Barnes, and Ivey’s arrival coincided with the team’s efforts to return to national prominence.
From the moment he stepped onto the court as a freshman, Ivey displayed the qualities that would define his game: unrelenting defense, high basketball IQ, and a fiery competitive spirit. Although he wasn’t always the flashiest player, his ability to lock down opponents and make key plays in critical moments made him invaluable to the team. His defensive abilities, in particular, set him apart, earning him a reputation as one of the toughest and most diligent guards in the Big 12 Conference.
Over his four-year career at Texas, Ivey played in 133 games, starting in 94 of them. He was a key figure on some of the best teams in Longhorns history, including the 2003-2004 squad that reached the Final Four. Ivey’s versatility allowed him to play both the point guard and shooting guard positions, which made him a critical piece in Texas’s offensive schemes. But it was his defense that garnered the most attention. He was named to the Big 12 All-Defensive Team twice and was widely regarded as one of the premier defenders in college basketball during his tenure.
“I take a lot of pride in my defense,” Ivey once said in an interview. “I’ve always believed that defense wins games, and I wanted to be the guy who could step up in big moments and get stops for my team.”
Ivey’s leadership and poise on the court helped Texas become a force in the Big 12 during his time with the team. He averaged 10.3 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game over his career, but his impact went beyond the box score. His ability to elevate the play of his teammates, his clutch performances, and his work ethic earned him the respect of everyone in the Longhorns locker room and beyond.
After his successful career at Texas, Ivey was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the 37th overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft. It was the start of a professional career that would span over a decade and take him to several NBA teams. Over the course of his career, Ivey played for the Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Brooklyn Nets. Known for his defensive prowess, Ivey carved out a niche for himself as a reliable backup guard who could guard multiple positions, handle the ball, and provide a spark off the bench.
Though his playing time varied with each team, Ivey remained a constant presence in the locker room and on the court. His defense, leadership, and unselfish style of play made him a valuable asset to every team he played for. He also became known as a mentor to younger players, particularly those who were just entering the league and adjusting to the rigors of professional basketball.
Throughout his career, Ivey was never a star in the traditional sense, but his ability to make winning plays and impact games in a variety of ways made him a respected figure in the NBA. His role as a defensive specialist was crucial for several playoff-bound teams, and he earned the reputation as a player who could be counted on when it mattered most.
In total, Ivey played 10 seasons in the NBA, appearing in over 500 games and contributing to the success of some of the league’s most competitive teams. His NBA journey may not have been filled with accolades or championships, but it was one defined by hard work, grit, and a commitment to doing whatever was necessary for his team to succeed.
After retiring from professional basketball in 2015, Ivey transitioned into coaching, where he would continue to influence the game in a new capacity. He spent time as an assistant coach with the Brooklyn Nets, where he was able to impart his knowledge of defense and leadership to the next generation of players. Ivey’s coaching career allowed him to stay connected to the game he loves while also giving back to the sport in a meaningful way.
Despite his success in the professional ranks, Ivey’s love for the University of Texas and its basketball program never waned. He regularly attended Longhorns games, offering advice and encouragement to the current players. His return to Texas as a Hall of Honor inductee represents the culmination of a journey that began with his first steps onto the court as a freshman in 2000. Ivey’s return to Texas isn’t just about honoring his legacy on the court; it’s about the values he embodies—hard work, humility, leadership, and a deep love for the program that helped shape his career.
“I always wanted to give back to the program that gave me so much,” Ivey said. “Texas was where I grew as a player and as a person. To be inducted into the Hall of Honor is truly an honor, and it’s a reminder of the special place this university holds in my heart.”
The Hall of Honor induction ceremony was a star-studded affair, with former teammates, coaches, and alumni gathering to celebrate Ivey’s achievements. As Ivey took the stage to accept his plaque, there was a palpable sense of pride and gratitude in the air. Texas fans, who had watched him grow from a promising young player to an NBA veteran, cheered enthusiastically, while his former coaches and teammates applauded his enduring contributions to the program.
Texas head coach Shaka Smart, who had the opportunity to work with Ivey during his time as a player at Texas, spoke glowingly about his former teammate. “Royal was the epitome of a Longhorn,” Smart said. “He was always willing to do whatever it took for the team to succeed. Whether it was scoring, playing defense, or being a vocal leader, he was the glue that held everything together. He was the type of player every coach wants on their team.”
In addition to the heartfelt tributes from coaches and teammates, Ivey also received messages of congratulations from former NBA stars, such as Dirk Nowitzki and Vince Carter, who recognized his impact both on and off the court. Ivey’s character and work ethic have left a lasting impression on everyone he’s crossed paths with, making his induction into the Hall of Honor even more special.
“This is an honor I’ll cherish forever,” Ivey said in his acceptance speech. “But I want to emphasize that this isn’t just about me. This is about all the teammates I’ve had, the coaches who believed in me, and the Longhorn Nation that supported me every step of the way. I’m forever grateful to be a part of this amazing program.”
Royal Ivey’s induction into the Texas Longhorns Hall of Honor goes beyond the recognition of his on-court accomplishments. His legacy is defined by the way he represented the University of Texas both during his time as a player and in the years that followed. His commitment to excellence, leadership, and selflessness are qualities that have shaped the culture of Texas basketball and continue to influence the program today.
As the Longhorns continue to build on the foundation laid by Ivey and his teammates, they will do so with the knowledge that his example of dedication, resilience, and teamwork is a standard to strive for. Ivey’s induction into the Hall of Honor serves as a reminder that success isn’t always measured by championships or individual accolades, but by the impact a player has on those around him and the legacy he leaves behind.
For the Longhorns, Royal Ivey’s legacy is not just a part of the past; it’s a guiding light for the future, one that will continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and fans.
