• Introducing the All-New Boneless WhataWings, available for a limited time only.
• Each order comes with nine WhataWings, tossed in one of four of your favorite Whataburger sauces: Buffalo, Honey Butter, Honey BBQ and Sweet & Spicy sauce.

Your New Year is about to get a whole lot saucier.

Whataburger is kicking off the new year in a big way with all-new boneless WhataWings, made with nine juicy, 100% white-meat chicken bites tossed in one of our four famously bold sauces. 

The starting lineup of flavors includes some heavy hitters, including Honey Butter, Buffalo, Honey BBQ and Sweet & Spicy sauce. 

“Our customers have a passion for Whataburger’s proprietary sauces. So, we’re excited to spread our wings around that enthusiasm by pairing favorites like Honey Butter and Sweet & Spicy with our premium chicken tender bites,” said Whataburger Chief Administrative Officer Alexander Ivannikov. 

With football season in full swing, WhataWings are sure to level-up your game-day spread. And you’ll also be the hero of the family-gathering or party with WhataWings in tow.

Whataburger’s all-new boneless WhataWings are here for a good time, not a long time—so try them while they’re here! Pricing and availability vary by market.

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account will immediately start earning rewards and getting special offers.

Ready to order Whataburger's All-New Boneless WhataWings?

Download the app today!

The Build: Whataburger White Chocolate Raspberry Shake

This luscious blend of flavors starts with a vanilla shake base, adding in a delightful combination of white chocolate and raspberry. 

“We are excited to bring back the Whataburger White Chocolate Raspberry Shake, a sweet standout with its distinctive flavor blend,” said Whataburger Corporate Chef James Sanchez. “Striking the ideal harmony between the velvety white chocolate and tangy raspberry, it’s a match made in tastebud heaven.”

The Bottom Line 

Sip back, relax, and enjoy the Whataburger White Chocolate Raspberry Shake while you can – it's only available for a limited time!

Pricing and availability vary by market.

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account will immediately start earning rewards and getting special offers.

Ready to order Whataburger's White Chocolate Raspberry Shake?

Download the app today!

The Build: Whataburger Chili Cheese Burger

Savor the flavor as you bite into two fresh, 100% beef patties layered with crunchy corn chips, Whataburger’s own chili, melty American cheese, crisp onions and Original Mustard piled high on a toasted five-inch bun. Also available in the Jr. size, the Whataburger Chili Cheese Burger delivers a party in your mouth with every bite.

The Build: Whataburger Chili Cheese Fries

Take Whataburger’s perfectly crispy fries, layer with the brand’s own beef chili and fancy shredded cheddar jack cheese, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate comfort food companion.

“The Chili Cheese Burger and Chili Cheese Fries take comfort food to a whole new dimension,” said Whataburger Corporate Chef James Sanchez. “It’s the classic Whataburger experience reimagined with a new cast of unbeatable flavors. Our commitment to innovation, quality and taste is on full display here.”

The Bottom Line 

They’re back for a limited time only! Enjoy Whataburger’s Chili Cheese lineup while you can. 

Pricing and availability vary by market.

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account will immediately start earning rewards and getting special offers.

Ready to order Whataburger's Chili Cheese Burger and Fries?

Download the app today!

Whether you’re shopping for everyone on your list or looking to treat yo’elf, there are plenty of new Whataburger items to deck those halls and sleigh your gift giving this year at the Whatastore. 

Tis the Season for All Holiday Fans 

Party go-er or sweater collector? We have your perfect Christmas outfit right here. Whataburger is debuting a new sweater design featuring a signature script among seasonal graphics and iconic Whataburger motifs including orange, fries and the A-Frame. ($49.99) 

Snow worries if it’s not chilly enough just yet. Our new holiday sweater vest may be the perfect option. Take your look to the next level with coordinating accessories including matching beanie, socks and scarf in a black, orange and white Zig Zag design. (Vest $39.99, Beanie $19.99, Socks $14.99, Scarf $14.99) 

If you’re into classics, add a little orange and white with this year’s collectable Nutcracker holding your favorite fries, stocking in Flying Ws, and snow globe with Santa on his sleigh. They will be available starting November 15. ($39.99) 

Spruce things up with new Whataburger holiday tees you can wear throughout the season starting on November 10. Choose from a Christmas tree design featuring recognizable Whataburger motifs or our green on red Have Yourself a Whataburger Christmas tee. ($25.00) 

Santa might be distracted from the cookies and milk this year by the burger and fry ornaments hanging on the tree. It’ll be tough to keep your cravings at bay with this iconic pair. ($19.99)  

For warmer nights, stay comfy with the Flying W sleep shorts or buy a whole set for the family to match! Roll out of bed to grab a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit in style with these pajama shorts. ($24.99) 

For Him 

Be the talk of the tailgate with the Whataburger “Whatacooler” Igloo Elite Playmate Cooler. The special-edition Igloo x Whataburger Playmate Elite has a 16-quart capacity that fits up to 30 12-ounce cans and is designed with Whataburger’s iconic orange-and-white stripes on their patented tent top. ($49.99) 

Who doesn’t love a comfy shirt? Meet the Flying W Snap Shirt. Whether you're off to a holiday on the beach or date night, you'll look best in snow in these Flying Ws printed on a relaxed fit polyester-cotton shirt with vented back and a back pocket. Available in white on orange or orange on white. ($39.99) 

Our YETI stainless steel Rambler® tumblers are iconic for a reason. Grab the 30-oz stainless steel Rambler® tumbler that’s designed to look just like our drink cups. This double-walled tumbler will keep your cold drinks cold and your hot drinks hot all winter long. ($49.99) 

For Her 

Charm the jewelry lover in your life with our collection of keepsake, hand-enameled sterling silver charms. Choose from our latest designs, the "Whataburger® Fancy" Ketchup Charm and "Whataburger® Spicy" Ketchup Charm, featuring Whataburger’s signature ketchup tubs with great attention to detail. Add in other designs in the collaborative collection including the Enamel Whataburger® French Fries Charm, Whataburger® Charm with a Flying W, Enamel "Whataburger®" Heart Charm and Enamel Whataburger® Cup Charm. (Starting at $64.00)    

Looking for a matching holiday PJ moment? Debuting on November 8, Whataburger’s new holiday pajama set features a new Flying W pajama design. They are also available in youth sizes for the whole family. ($29.99) 

Cozying up at home for the holidays? Sleigh, queen. Snuggle up with our custom Whataburger Comfy® Original. Double layered with fleece microfiber on the outside and sherpa on the inside, it’s sure to keep you warm all winter long. (Starting at $39.99.)  

Treat yourself and all your best spuds. Whataburger French Fry fans can celebrate their love for hot and crispy fries with new Fry Slippers. ($24.99) 

For the Kids 

Our Whatakids® rock, which is why we have items just for them they’re sure to love.  

Start with a WhataBaby Bib and I’m So Spicy Onesie, then go all the way up to youth tees in Hunger Attack, Tie Dye themes and more. (Starting at $9.99.)

For the Fanatic 

For the ultimate fans who bleed orange, light up your love with Whataburger LED sign. Be warned, late night burger cravings may ensue. ($99.99) 

You won’t strike out with this Whataburger Baseball Jersey for fans on and off the field. You’re always a team player when you’re repping the orange and white. ($39.99) 

While you may be tempted by a table tent (or two) from your local Whataburger, we’ve got just the thing. For the avid collector we have our special edition holiday table tent to decorate your mantle or Christmas tree. (Starting at $3.99) 

Pack some flavor and stuff those stuffings with the Legendary Trio 3-Pack of our signature condiments. Give the gift of Whataburger original-recipe sauces with this true taste of Whataburger including 20-ounce Fancy Ketchup, 20-ounce Spicy Ketchup and 16-ounce Original Mustard. ($10.99)  

For the friend who is always taking their lunch breaks at their favorite place, a Whataburger gift card is sure to please. Load the gift card with an amount of your choice and we’ll get cooking!

For the Vacationer 

It’s never too early to start dreaming of a vacation! 

Made for floating the river or riding the waves, dive in and show your Texas pride with these Whataburger swim trunks in Hawaiian, Flying W and Texas Flag designs. ($29.99) 

Caps are always in season, especially Whataburger ones. Shop the Staunch Traditional Outfitters collections in a wide array of designs for all tastes, sure to serve looks while you rep your favorite spot. ($29.99)  

Keep it classy and cool by the beach and pool with the Flying W Guayabera. This stylish embroidered shirt is perfect while you soak up the breezes on holiday. ($44.99)  

Why stop the water accessories at swim trunks? Bring us poolside with our inner tube and don’t worry your drinks can stay cool with our can holders too. Whataburger has you set for holiday vacation fun in the sun! ($9.99 and $4.99) 

Feeling a little chili? It’s time to try our newest seasonal treat – the all-new Whataburger Chili Cheese Fries, available for a limited time!

The Build: Whataburger Chili Cheese Fries

They’re crispy fries layered with Whataburger’s own beef chili and fancy cheddar jack cheese – and the perfect companion for the all-new Whataburger Chili Cheese Burger.

“We’re answering the call from Whataburger fans loving the new Chili Cheese Burger and requesting chili cheese fries,” said Rich Scheffler, Whataburger Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “Layering our original-recipe chili and fancy shredded cheddar jack cheese over a bed of Whataburger’s famous crispy fries is taking a tried-and-true favorite to a new, delicious level.”

The Bottom Line 

Dig into Whataburger’s all-new Chili Cheese Fries while you can! They’re only available for a limited time.

Pricing and availability vary by market.

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account earn rewards and get special offers.

The Build: Whataburger Breakfast Bowl

It’s a fresh-baked biscuit, creamy Whataburger gravy, scrambled eggs, two crispy hashbrowns and Fancy Shredded Cheddar Jack cheese with your choice of sausage or bacon.

“The Whataburger Breakfast Bowl is a savory and satisfying serving that delivers the quality and freshness guests have come to expect from us,” said Rich Scheffler, Whataburger Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “For those truly on the go, Whataburger’s convenient app includes order-ahead options, so this convenient bowl is ready to roll when you are.”

The Bottom Line 

It’s available from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. Get this all-new, limited-time offer while you can!

Pricing and availability vary by market.

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account earn rewards and get special offers.

The traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony will include remarks from representatives of Whataburger, its franchisee partner Paradies Lagardère and the San Antonio International Airport. Whataburger swag giveaways plus the chance to win Whataburger for a Year will also be available at this much-anticipated celebration.

With Judith Hernandez, Flagship Manager for Paradies Lagardère at the helm, the Whataburger team of more than 50 local employees, who we call Family Members, is ready to serve thousands of hungry travelers daily from 4 a.m. through the last flight of the day. 

“We’re thrilled to finally bring Whataburger to the San Antonio Airport,” said Gregg Paradies, President & CEO, Paradies Lagardère Franchisee. “We can't wait to serve both brand-new and returning guests a taste of what Texas is all about."

In addition to serving up beloved breakfast favorites like the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit and Breakfast on a Bun, the new Whataburger will offer its fresh, never-frozen burgers and other popular menu items, including French fries, onion rings, chicken strips and shakes.

Those interested in working at the airport restaurant can visit www.paradieslagardere.com/careers for more information.

Whataburger partnered with local Boys & Girls Clubs in 19 cities to host company volunteer events, kicking off the upcoming school year with its Whataburger Feeding Student Success Back-to-School Program. The company’s latest volunteer initiative supported students in honor of Whataburger’s 72^nd anniversary.  

A series of volunteer events from Friday, July 29 to Monday, August 22 were part of the Whataburger Feeding Student Success Back-to-School Program. Whataburger employees, known as Family Members, delivered Whataburger-branded school supplies, games and food to students. Additionally, each club received a $2,000 monetary donation to support youth educational opportunities. A total of $170,000, including monetary donations and in-kind gifts, were donated to 20 clubs across nine states.    

“Boys & Girls Clubs of America does wonderful work to ensure children have a safe place and enriching programs to reach their full potential,” said Whataburger Community Experience Manager Melba Harris. “To help students get the school year started off right, Whataburger provided educational support during our Whataburger Feeding Student Success Back-To-School Program, making a difference at clubs across our communities.” 

The Whataburger Feeding Student Success Back-To-School Program events took place at Boys & Girls Club locations in Auburn, Austin, Baton Rouge, Corpus Christi, Dallas, El Paso, Fort Worth, Houston, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Las Cruces, Lubbock, McAllen, Midland, Nashville, Oklahoma City, Pensacola, Phoenix and San Antonio.   

The program is part of Whataburger Feeding Student Success, the company’s signature community program operating at the intersection of food insecurity and education, focusing on helping students at all levels of education achieve their goals and dreams.

The restaurant will open with drive-thru service only, with plans to roll out additional services options including dining room access, ordering via the Whataburger App and Whataburger.com, curbside and delivery in coming weeks.

“We are hard at work training our dedicated team of Family Members to deliver our extensive menu of bold flavors, made to order, fresh and hot with a side of extraordinary hospitality,” said Operating Partner Kimberly Moss. “We look forward to offering our friends in the Lebanon community a chance to enjoy the great Whataburger experience at this time from the most convenient spot around -- their vehicle.”

Following full-service availability, Whataburger will celebrate its grand opening by welcoming guests inside to be served by its 175 local employees, called Family Members.

The new restaurant’s design pays respect to Whataburger’s storied history while looking to the future with forward-thinking features, including a state-of-the-art kitchen, an open-concept dining room and double drive-thru lanes. Interior details include custom wall art honoring Tennessee. 

Following the Lebanon opening and recent openings in Hermitage and Gallatin, Whataburger will continue to grow the brand with the following area locations: 

• 1835 Old Fort Parkway, Murfreesboro, 37129 – mid 2022
• 360 W Sam Ridley Pkwy, Smyrna, 37167 – mid 2022
• 1715 Gallatin Pike N, Madison, 37115 – late 2022
• 450 TN-109, Lebanon, 37090 – late 2022
• 11190 Lebanon Rd, Mt. Juliet, 37122 – early 2023
• 1944 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro, 37129 – mid 2023
• 4933 Main St, Spring Hill, 37174 – mid 2023 

Whataburger Family Members are paid weekly and have access to flexible schedules (open 24/7). All employees participate in a robust training program that puts them on track for career advancement. Managers have the potential to earn up to $60,000 a year, based on both market and performance. Operating Partners earn an average of six figures or more, including bonuses of up to 150 percent of their target incentive. Both Operating Partner and Manager positions receive competitive health, dental and vision benefits, paid vacation and 401(k) benefits.

Whataburger is officially available to Memphians near and far, as the second Whataburger in the market will open at 6829 Getwell Rd N in Southaven on Wednesday, August 24 at 11 a.m. 

“We’re thrilled to bring Whataburger’s big flavors, fresh ingredients and original recipes to Memphis,” said Whataburger Senior Market Leader Jon Barideaux. “We look forward to continuing to serve our friends and neighbors in Southaven.”  

Barideaux, who recently moved to Tennessee from Texas, will continue to lead Whataburger’s expansion in the region. With corporate support, he and his team members have already been actively involved in the community, partnering with the Mid-South Food Bank (MSFB) to provide monetary support and in-kind donations of pantry items and school supplies.

Additional community efforts include establishing a Resource Room in partnership with LeMoyne Owen College. The Resource Room, set to open in October, will provide students with healthy food and essential supplies, allowing them to continue their college education journey successfully.

Whataburger will continue to grow the brand in the Memphis area through collaborations with the Bluff City Balloon Jamboree and Southaven Springfest, as well as sponsorships in support of the Memphis Redbirds and University of Memphis Athletics.

The brand plans to employ a total of 525 employees, who we call Family Members, to deliver the Whataburger experience in the Memphis area by year-end.

• 176 Goodman Rd E, Southaven, Miss. 38671 – July 11, 2022
• 6829 Getwell Rd N., Southaven, Miss. 38672 – August 24, 2022
• 1040 N Germantown Pkwy, Cordova, Tenn. 38018 – November 14, 2022
• 2859 N Germantown Pkwy, Memphis, Tenn. 38133 – January 12, 2023

Whataburger Family Members are paid weekly and have access to flexible schedules (open 24/7). All employees participate in a robust training program that puts them on track for career advancement. Managers have the potential to earn up to $60,000 a year, based on both market and performance. Operating Partners earn an average of six figures or more, including bonuses of up to 150 percent of their target incentive. Both Operating Partner and Manager positions receive competitive health, dental and vision benefits, paid vacation and 401(k) benefits.

Crisp, smoky bacon, blue cheese and Whataburger’s own Peppercorn Ranch sauce combine to create the unique, premium-quality taste of the all-new Whataburger Bacon Blue Cheese Burger. Available for a limited time only, Whataburger’s newest offering has layers of flavor to savor.

The Build: Whataburger Bacon Blue Cheese Burger

This uniquely craveable burger is two, fresh 100% beef patties layered with crisp, smoky bacon, blue cheese, grilled onions, American cheese, Peppercorn Ranch sauce and fresh-chopped lettuce and tomato slices piled high on a toasted five-inch bun.

“The bold flavors, freshness and quality of the new Whataburger Bacon Blue Cheese Burger are exciting,” said Rich Scheffler, Whataburger Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “We’re thrilled to offer this premium-quality burger for a limited time.”

The Bottom Line 

It’s only available for a limited time. Take a bite out of Whataburger’s Bacon Blue Cheese Burger while you can! 

Prices vary by market.

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account will start earning rewards and get special offers.

One sip of the all-new Whataburger Banana Pudding Shake and you’re instantly transported to a happy childhood place or memory. This delicious treat is sure to make fans nostalgic for a sweeter and simpler time.

The Build: Whataburger Banana Pudding Shake   

This first-ever shake is creamy and sweet, made using a vanilla shake base and the perfect combination of creamy banana pudding flavor.

“The nostalgic flavor of banana pudding is perfectly captured in our newest shake," said Rich Scheffler, Whataburger Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. "With well-balanced flavors in each sip, guests are in for a sweet treat with this fresh take on a comfort food classic."

The Bottom Line 

Build a trip down memory lane into your summer travel plans! The Whataburger Banana Pudding Shake is available for a limited time.

Prices vary by market. 

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account will start earning rewards and get special offers.

The Build: Whataburger Chocolate Chunk Brownie

The brownie has a moist, soft texture inside and a crispy, flaky top layer with chocolate chunks.

“This fudgy new treat is pure delight in every bite," said Rich Scheffler, Whataburger Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. "It’s the perfect finish (or start!) to any Whataburger meal.”

The Bottom Line 

The Whataburger Chocolate Chunk Brownie is only available for a limited time. Don’t fudge on the chance to get it while you can!

Prices vary by market. 

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account will start earning rewards and get special offers.

The Build: The Whataburger Breakfast Burger   

This hearty creation is a 100% fresh beef patty, two slices of savory bacon, a freshly-cracked egg, three crispy hash browns, American cheese and Whataburger’s one-of-a-kind Creamy Pepper Sauce, all conveniently sandwiched in a four-inch bun.

“The Breakfast Burger is one of the most popular limited-time breakfast offers we’ve ever introduced,” said Rich Scheffler, Whataburger Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “We’re excited to answer the call for its return and share this special burger with new fans.”

The Bottom Line 

The legendary Breakfast Burger is only available during breakfast hours – 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. – and will be on the menu for a limited time, so get it while you can!

Prices vary by market. 

Curbside pickup and delivery are options on the Whataburger App and at Whataburger.com. Customers who create an account will start earning rewards and get special offers.

It was only a matter of time before Whataburger answered the call from fans in the Springfield area. Springfieldians will finally have the chance to sink their teeth into Whataburger’s bold flavors and fresh ingredients. 

Whataburger plans to open five Springfield-area restaurants by year-end 2023.

NOW OPEN

• 1371 U.S. Highway 60, Republic, Mo., 65738 - December 8, 2022 
• 1851 W. Marler Lane, Ozark, Mo. 65721 - January 3, 2023
• 3880 W. Sunshine, Springfield, Mo. 65807 - May 8, 2023

COMING SOON

• 2355 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65803 
• 401 N. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65802

Along with the new restaurants, Whataburger will bring exciting career opportunities to the community, with plans to hire more than 660 employees.

More information on Whataburger’s competitive benefits and salaries, great opportunities for career advancements and other employee resources for growth and development are available here.

Breathable short-sleeved woven fishing shirts, long-sleeved lightweight performance crew shirts, boat shorts and caps are all part of the new lineup. True to Academy’s Magellan Outdoors brand, the apparel was made with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, and some of the unique designs pay tribute to the menu items fans can get 24 hours a day, seven days a week at Whataburger.

“We had fun working with Academy and their Magellan Outdoors brand to design Whataburger apparel we know our fans will be hooked on,” said Rich Scheffler, Whataburger Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “We hope our Family Members and fans enjoy hitting the waterways sporting some of these brand-new items.”

The full lineup is available for a limited time only, so visit one of Academy Sports + Outdoors’ 106 locations across Texas before it’s too late. Customers who spend $20 or more in-store on products within the collection will receive a free, special-edition Whataburger and Magellan Outdoors table tent, while supplies last.

Fans in other parts of the country can also grab the exclusive gear online at academy.com/shop-whataburger and a select number of designs will be available on Whataburger’s online Whatastore at Whatastore.com.

“This is the first-ever collaboration between Whataburger and Academy Sports + Outdoors’ exclusive Magellan Outdoors brand – it’s the secret sauce to fishing fashion,” said Lawrence Lobpries, Academy Sports + Outdoors’ senior vice president of marketing. “We’re excited to pair two iconic Texas brands together for a fun summer treat you can only find at Academy.”

Prices vary by item and are available while supplies last.

Whataburger Museum of Art can be found by visiting @TheWMOA. The collection features artists from cities across our 17-state footprint and beyond. It includes a variety of perspectives and interpretations of Whataburger fandom, with the artwork sourced through Instagram and online galleries. Many of these artists had tagged @Whataburger in the past, and we knew we wanted to shine a light on their great work. 

Information about each individual artist and their inspirations can be found on their dedicated posts and ‘The Artists’ Story Highlight. We encourage everyone who visits @TheWMOA to explore the artists' accounts to support them and purchase their artwork.

Inspired to share your own orange-and-white masterpiece? We’re currently accepting artwork submissions from Whataburger fans everywhere. Tag @TheWMOA to share your delicious works of art!

Robert Hughes Sr.

Robert Hughes Sr. coached I.M. Terrell and Dunbar High Schools in Fort Worth for more than three decades winning five state titles in the process.

Robert Hughes comes from humble beginnings, one of seven siblings growing up on a farm in Bristow, Oklahoma. Hard work became part of his mantra with life lessons from his mom at an early age.

“I came from a family of seven boys and one girl,” said Hughes. “As a kid, you just didn’t run into a lot of things. My mom was about 6 feet tall. When she told you to do something, you needed to do it and quickly.”

Hughes’ determination led him to play at Texas Southern University and was eventually drafted by the Boston Celtics. After his playing days were over, Hughes headed to Texas and took on the role of head coach for I.M. Terrell for several years winning three state titles. Hughes later transitioned to Dunbar High School in 1973 and would coach there for the next 32 years winning two more state titles and amassing 1,333 career wins, surpassing DeMatha Catholic High School (PA) coaching legend Morgan Wootten.

“Every day when we saw each other – coaches and players – we said, ‘Remember this, don’t let anybody outwork you, period,’” said Hughes. “We stuck to that.”

Hughes retired from coaching in 2005, but the “Duke”, as he was referred to, leaves a long legacy behind that is being carried forward by his son, Robert Hughes Jr., who’s currently the head coach at Dunbar.

Robert Gill

Robert Gill is the only person in 60 years who has played, coached and officiated the Whataburger Basketball Tournament.

It all began on a December morning in 1964. A sixth-grader named Robert Gill and his cousin were dropped off at the entrance to the Westside Lions Club Basketball Tournament arena in Fort Worth, $5 in hand and excitement on their faces. They weren’t there to play, but to watch the tournament.

“We’d watch every game. I knew the players, they’d come by and talk to us and we’d freak out. It kind of makes me emotional because it meant that much to me,” says Gill.

And while he loved the excitement of being a spectator, Gil dreamed of the day he could play in the then Westside Lions Tournament. The dream was soon to come true.

“It really had a huge influence on me, watching that tournament at a young age,” says Gill. “I wanted to be like those guys that were playing in the tournament.”

A few years later, when Gill starred at Carter Riverside High School, he fulfilled his dream of playing in the Westside Lions Tournament, even earning all-tournament honors his senior year.

Gill remained connected with the Whataburger Basketball Tournament, coaching and eventually officiating games.

“This tournament wouldn’t be where it is today without the tournament of the 60s and 70s when it was the Westside Lions Tournament; it just couldn’t,” says Gill.

Sharrief Metoyer

Sharrief Metoyer played in the tournament as a high school athlete and went on to coach Long Beach Poly where he returned with his team in 2009 and 2012. He also became a full-time teacher for two decades while running an inner-city baskeball program for Nike.

Sharrief Metoyer first played in the Whataburger Basketball Tournament in 1989 as a sophomore. Twenty years later, Metoyer had the privilege to coach the Long Beach Poly High School team to the very same tournament.

Metoyer’s Poly team advanced to the championship game in 2009 but lost in the final round. Three years later, in 2012 Long Beach Poly returned and won the title.

“I think it’s amazing to see the maturation process of 14,15,16-year-old kids using basketball as a tool to help them in other areas of life in terms of discipline and responsibility,” said Metoyer. “The tournament is first class, and getting that Whataburger at the end of games, well that’s an added plus.”

Rogers first became involved with the tournament in 1974 when he joined the Lions Club and began volunteering at the then-16-year-old tournament. When the tournament needed someone to take it over seven years later, he volunteered to step up.

“Our goal that first year and each year after has been to go after one national high school to bring in teams to the tournament that don’t normally get to play each other.”

Though this raised the costs and prompted the need for corporate sponsorships, expanding the playing field was a game-changer and ushered in the next season of the tournament. Whataburger began sponsoring the tournament in 1985.

Thirty-eight years brings with it a lot of memories. Rogers recalled the 1987 tournament, when Los Angeles Crenshaw was playing Fort Worth Dunbar in the heated finals match. Ten players signed Division I scholarships that year.

“It was standing-room only. The aisles were filled because there were 7,000 people packed into a 5,800-person arena,” he noted. “Someone told us the fire marshal was going to shut us down, but we just said, ‘If you want to talk to him, be our guest because he’s right there in the front row.’”

With the tournament taking place every year right after the holidays, and all of Rogers’ children involved with the tournament, one could only presume it’s had an effect on his family’s holiday traditions. However, he says it totally “goes as normal” – the family just stays in their hometown of Fort Worth for the holidays.

Each tournament takes well over a year to coordinate, and it’s a family affair for the Rogers Clan. Daughter Robyn coordinates the activities at the W.G. Thomas Coliseum, son Rusty covers social media, and youngest son, Randy, who’s in the military, helps out wherever he can when he’s home for the holidays. Sarah Rogers (Tom’s wife) heads up the hospitality room to make sure all the coaches and scouts are fed.

More than 20,000 spectators, including college scouts and coaches, are expected to take part in the action-packed three-day tournament which kicks off Thursday, Dec. 26 through Saturday, Dec. 28, where 3,000 Whataburgers are consumed each year. For more information, check out the details here. Brackets, rankings and specific player statistics can also be found at WhataburgerTournament.com. 

As for Rogers, you’ll be able to find him enjoying the tournament with his favorite Whataburger in hand – the No. 1 with cheese – “because nothing beats the original.”

Dinner a’deux

Enjoy the Texas sun under big blue Lone Star skies. Glam it up to really impress your favorite picnic partner.

 Jaime Burrow Photography

Fair weather fan

Whether you ride the oversized Ferris Wheel at the Texas State Fair in Dallas or gobble up funnel cakes and corndogs at small-town celebrations, every true Texan has a favorite fair.

Dine out

Dine al fresco with longhorns for an elegant evening of pure-Texas charm.

 Jaime Burrow Photography

Soak up the sun

Grab your favorite Whataburger hat and head out for a hike. Don’t forget your BFFs: Your Best French Fries and your Best Furry Friend.

Hit the road

Crank the tunes, and go explore the Lone Star State with your ride-or-die crew. Fill up on some Dr Pepper for the ride.

Crowdsource

Get the gang together for a Patty Melt. Or six.

Back in the saddle 

Whether you’re in the Piney Woods or Lost Maples, see the scenery on four feet.

Taste the sweetness

Need a snack any time of day? Pick up one of Whataburger’s new cinnamon rolls, available 24-7 at all of our restaurants.

Where a 'win' means Whataburger

In Texas, we love our football --  whether it's a backyard ball game or Friday Night Lights. Go long. Stay hydrated.

Peak performance 

Hike Enchanted Rock, one of the Hill Country’s most recognizable landmarks, and hang out for a Texas-style sunset. (Whataburger T-shirt optional.)

Breakfast break

What warms the heart (or the toes) more than a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit with someone you love?