AUSTIN (KXAN) — NBA star and Longhorn Kevin Durant doesn’t want to forget his roots, that’s why he’s giving back to youths with his “Build it and they will ball” initiative. This new program, which is part of Kevin Durant’s Charity Foundation (KDCF), works to build or fully renovate basketball courts in underserved communities across the country.

On Friday afternoon, Durant made children at IDEA Rundberg Academy scream with glee when he showed up to see how the outdoor basketball court is coming along. The KDCF, in partnership with BBVA Compass and its Bright Futures platform, is working to build a much needed outdoor court on the campus. The outdoor court project should be complete by the end of the month.

While at the school, Durant shared his experience as a child and how far he’s come.

“Hopefully it sparks something in their minds to keep achieving their dreams,” said Durant. “Something small can ignite something big. And that’s been my motto for a long time.”

Durant even challenged some students to a little action on the court.

“He’s just a great person. He cares for kids,” said IDEA student Christian Chambers. “I’m just really happy I got to play basketball with an NBA basketball player, who plays for my favorite team!”

Chambers played a round of “knockout” with the professional athlete and well… Durant wasn’t going to let a kid beat him. Durant decided to end the game with a slam dunk.

The KDCF plans to build and renovate basketball courts in New York, Washington, D.C. and the Bay Area.