I'm not a huge fan of Texas either, and I lived in Dallas for just over a year when I was young.
However, Austin might as well be a different country because it is NOT like the rest of the state. One of the most fun and progressive towns I have ever been in...my wife and I actually thought about moving there when we visited last year...seriously, check it out. Incredible food, night life, things to do...and everyone is super nice. Just a great upbeat community.
The less said about the NBA, the better. LeDick won, so I am in 'who cares anymore' mode. Pumped about the C's coach hire though...Brad can flat out coach, but now all he needs is players.