When considering whether Texas college sports teams could continue participating in the NCAA after independence, it’s important to highlight that NCAA membership isn’t tied to statehood. The NCAA does not restrict membership to schools within U.S. states. For instance, Simon Fraser University in Canada has been an NCAA member since 2010, which proves that non-U.S. institutions can compete under the NCAA umbrella​.

Beyond Canada, there are other examples of non-U.S. teams that have competed in the NCAA, further reinforcing that statehood is not a requirement for participation. The University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez competes in NCAA Division II, and Mexican universities have also taken part in past NCAA events​​. This precedent suggests that Texas universities could still retain their NCAA membership, regardless of whether Texas is a U.S. state or an independent nation.

Moreover, Texas schools could benefit from the expanded flexibility that independence might provide in shaping their athletic programs. With recent NCAA rule changes, student-athletes now enjoy more health coverage, better mental health support, and increased opportunities related to name, image, and likeness (NIL). An independent Texas may have even more leeway to offer innovative solutions for student-athletes that align with Texas’ values and priorities​​.

In conclusion, Texas universities would likely be able to continue competing in NCAA sports post-independence, given the existing framework and precedents. Independence could even create new opportunities for Texas institutions to enhance their athletic programs and better support their student-athletes.