AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Brendan Hausen, Amarillo High alumnus and native, is making sure his March Madness run leaves an impact beyond the court and inspires the youth in his hometown.
After reaching the Elite Eight in the 2026 NCAA Tournament with the Iowa Hawkeyes, Hausen said he collected dozens of March Madness towels with one goal in mind. After speaking with Hausen by phone, he plans to bring a piece of the experience back home to Amarillo.
2 brothers, Amarillo High alum in 2026 NCAA March Madness Tournament
“I don’t have the exact number, but it’s definitely in the double digits,” Hausen said. “I’m looking at about 12 right now, and I know I have more in my car and still in the locker room.”
For Hausen, the gesture is about inspiring the next generation of players in Amarillo.
“Home is a special place for me,” he said. “As a kid, I was a big dreamer. If I would’ve had someone do that for me, it would’ve made me believe even more. I just want kids back home to feel like they’re a part of it.”…