“Houston Rockets Reach Final Four, Dominates Tennessee”
Houston is returning to Texas, this time to San Antonio for the NCAA men’s tournament Final Four. Leading the nation in fewest points allowed, the Cougars showcased their exceptional defensive skills in a 69-50 victory over Tennessee in the Midwest Region championship game, securing their first Final Four appearance in four years. A collective effort from all players on the court propelled Houston to victory, with eight players contributing to the scoreboard, led by 17 points from L.J. Cryer, the Big 12 player of the year. Cryer bounced back from a rough Sweet 16 performance with 10 points in the first half. Emanuel Sharp added 16 points, including crucial 3-pointers in the second half as Tennessee attempted to narrow the gap. This marks Houston coach Kelvin Sampson’s third Final Four appearance, previously leading Oklahoma in 2002 and the Cougars in 2021.
Sampson emphasized the team’s journey, stating, “We always talk about preparing for the moment when nobody’s around for the moments when everybody is. And now everybody knows about Houston basketball.” Houston’s strong offensive performance contrasted with Tennessee’s struggles to score, as the Cougars quickly established a 9-2 lead. Houston’s defensive prowess limited Tennessee’s opportunities, with the Volunteers missing their first 14 3-point attempts in the first half.
Despite Tennessee’s improved offense in the second half, Houston maintained a comfortable lead throughout, never allowing the Volunteers to come within 10 points. With this victory, Houston secures its Final Four spot as a No. 1 seed, marking the team’s redemption after recent Sweet 16 exits.
Sampson credited the team’s leadership and maturity for their success, emphasizing their focus on winning over individual statistics. As at least three No. 1 seeds advance to the Final Four for the first time since 2015, Houston looks ahead to the next challenge in the tournament.
Auburn, the No. 1 seed, has the opportunity to create an all No. 1 seed Final Four, a feat not seen since 2008. Houston advances in March Madness with a victory over Tennessee for a spot in the Final Four. This article was first published on USA TODAY.
