Texas Longhorns' offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. wins the 2024 Lombardi Award, honoring excellence in football performance, character, and discipline. Banks is the fourth Longhorn to receive this prestigious accolade.
Kelvin Banks Jr., an offensive tackle for the Texas Longhorns, has won the 51st Lombardi Award, joining an elite group of players that reflect Vince Lombardi's values of performance and discipline.
Banks Jr., a talented Humble, Texas, and Summer Creek High School player became the fourth Longhorn to achieve this prestigious award. Brian Orakpo was the last Longhorn to win in 2008. Banks Jr. was one of four finalists, alongside South Carolina's Kyle Kennard, Penn State's Abdul Carter, and Louisiana State's Will Campbell.
The Rotary Club of Houston founded the Lombardi Award in 1970 to recognize players who exemplify Vince Lombardi's moral attributes and remarkable ability. Proceeds from the annual dinner benefit cancer research and families affected by the disease, carrying Lombardi's legacy beyond the field.
Kelvin Banks Jr.'s victory recognizes his accomplishments and puts a light on Texas Longhorn football. His Houston roots contribute to the community's pride as they celebrate his achievement.
This year's award builds on the history of recognizing players who achieve on the field while respecting the discipline and principles of one of football's most iconic characters.
Belly of the Beast, which is owned and operated by Thomas Bille of Spring, was awarded the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Texas in 2025. This achievement represents a significant milestone for the culinary sector in Houston.
Harris County commissioners have unanimously selected Judge Genesis Draper, a respected criminal court judge and former public defender, as the next Chief Public Defender. Set to take office on July 7, Draper will succeed the retiring Alex Bunin, inheriting a nationally recognized office and aiming to significantly expand its capacity to provide legal defense services and tackle the county's court case backlog.
The Houston area is poised for a series of "No Kings" protests this Saturday, deliberately timed to coincide with President Donald Trump's military-themed parade and birthday celebration in Washington, D.C These demonstrations, organized by the 50501 Movement and various local groups, aim to express widespread opposition to the Trump administration's policies, emphasizing a rejection of what organizers describe as authoritarian tendencies.