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ilman Fertitta, a Texas billionaire and owner of the Houston Rockets and Landry's restaurant chain, is reportedly being considered by President-elect Donald Trump as the US ambassador to Italy. This potential nomination comes as Fertitta continues to expand his influence in Houston's luxury real estate market.

    As a major real estate player, Fertitta owns over 300,000 square feet of luxury retail space, 67,000 square feet of office space, and nearly 280 upscale apartments. His recent acquisition of the River Oaks District for $450 million is part of his plans to expand the entertainment and luxury retail district.

    Fertitta's ambitions in Houston also include transforming a 177,000-square-foot office building at 777 Post Oak Boulevard into a hub that connects his various assets, such as the Post Oak Hotel and Post Oak Motor Cars. He is also chairman of the University of Houston system board of regents.

    Other notable real estate players being considered by the Trump administration for key roles include Steve Witkoff, who could be Special envoy to the Middle East, Howard Lutnick, who could be Secretary of Commerce, and Charles Kushner, who could be US ambassador to France.