Senior John Adesola runs in the NCAA West Regionals on May 30, 2025, in College Station. | Juan DeLeon/UH Athletics

When Houston track and field lined up for the men’s 4×100-meter relay at NCAA West Regionals, senior John Adesola wasn’t supposed to be there.

But there he was. Adesola was asked to step in and run a leg of the relay he hadn’t competed in all season, a decision made just two days before the event, after sophomore Cayden Broadnax and freshman Germain Smith-Mata suffered injuries.

The sprinter and hurdler had experience in the relay, running the second leg last year, but this season, when he competed, he was an anchor. 

With no time to rehearse handoffs in the updated order, Adesola and the other fill-in freshman Noah Hanson, had to rely on instinct and trust as they ran alongside freshman Brice Chabot and Ryan Mulholland.

“It was new to me this year,” Adesola said. “Obviously, we hadn’t done any handoff practice in that order the whole year, but it was a good experience.”

The relay squad narrowly missed qualifying, finishing with a time of 39.48 seconds, putting them 13th overall, but for Adesola, the day was far from over.

Immediately after the relay, he competed in the 110-meter hurdles. Despite the fatigue and the mental toll of jumping between events, he clocked a personal record of 13.26 and earned his spot at nationals.

Still riding the high of qualifying in the hurdles, Adesola had little time to celebrate before lining up for the 100-meter dash. Again, he was one spot shy of qualifying with a 10.09.

“I feel great. I’m blessed,” Adesola said. “Came out with two PRs and punched a ticket to Eugene. That’s what I came here for.”

It was a grueling day, but Adesola kept his composure.

“At that point, it’s more of a mental thing, just keeping yourself calm and trusting that you can go and execute,” he said. “I had a lot of adrenaline pumping at the time, I just needed to calm myself down, not let my nerves get the best of me.”

He didn’t, and now, he’s bound for the national stage.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Next man up: John Adesola steps up and punches ticket to National Championships at regionals” was originally posted on The Cougar

Senior John Adesola runs in the NCAA West Regionals on May 30, 2025, in College Station. | Juan DeLeon/UH Athletics

When Houston track and field lined up for the men’s 4×100-meter relay at NCAA West Regionals, senior John Adesola wasn’t supposed to be there.

But there he was. Adesola was asked to step in and run a leg of the relay he hadn’t competed in all season, a decision made just two days before the event, after sophomore Cayden Broadnax and freshman Germain Smith-Mata suffered injuries.

The sprinter and hurdler had experience in the relay, running the second leg last year, but this season, when he competed, he was an anchor. 

With no time to rehearse handoffs in the updated order, Adesola and the other fill-in freshman Noah Hanson, had to rely on instinct and trust as they ran alongside freshman Brice Chabot and Ryan Mulholland.

“It was new to me this year,” Adesola said. “Obviously, we hadn’t done any handoff practice in that order the whole year, but it was a good experience.”

The relay squad narrowly missed qualifying, finishing with a time of 39.48 seconds, putting them 13th overall, but for Adesola, the day was far from over.

Immediately after the relay, he competed in the 110-meter hurdles. Despite the fatigue and the mental toll of jumping between events, he clocked a personal record of 13.26 and earned his spot at nationals.

Still riding the high of qualifying in the hurdles, Adesola had little time to celebrate before lining up for the 100-meter dash. Again, he was one spot shy of qualifying with a 10.09.

“I feel great. I’m blessed,” Adesola said. “Came out with two PRs and punched a ticket to Eugene. That’s what I came here for.”

It was a grueling day, but Adesola kept his composure.

“At that point, it’s more of a mental thing, just keeping yourself calm and trusting that you can go and execute,” he said. “I had a lot of adrenaline pumping at the time, I just needed to calm myself down, not let my nerves get the best of me.”

He didn’t, and now, he’s bound for the national stage.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Next man up: John Adesola steps up and punches ticket to National Championships at regionals” was originally posted on The Cougar

Malachi Lott (13) gears up for a pitch in a fall scrimmage. | Rin Christensen/The Cougar.

For Malachi Lott, baseball has always been about the journey. The senior outfielder and left-handed pitcher has seen his career come full circle. 

“I’ve been doing both pitching and hitting my whole life, and it is something I enjoy,” Lott said. “I embrace the opportunity to do the extra work.”

Path back to Houston

He began his career at Houston, moved to Sam Houston State and has now returned to wear the Cougars’ jersey again.

Transitioning between programs is never easy, but his ability to adapt and excel at Houston and Sam Houston State speaks volumes about his work ethic and determination.

“It felt like God’s plan to return here, and I trusted my gut,” Lott said. “So, I’m back in Houston where it all started.”

Don Sanders Classic

Tuesday’s game marked the 178th meeting and the start of this year’s Don Sanders Classic, the second-most-played series in Houston history. 

Lott has played in every Don Sanders Classic matchup since his freshman year; this season is no exception.

However, this time, Lott returns to the event, having represented both Houston and Sam Houston State on the field.

Stepping onto the field for yet another Don Sanders Classic, this time back in Cougar red, it’s clear that Lott’s journey has shaped him into the player he is today. 

Already making history, he became the first Cougar since 2006 to hit a home run and earn a win in the same game, showcasing his dominance on both sides of the ball. 

His clutch homer and strong performance on the mound fueled Houston’s victory, making the moment even sweeter against the team he once played for.

Lott’s versitily on display

Lott is a Portland, Texas native and was a standout athlete at Gregory-Portland High School. 

He initially joined the Cougars for his freshman season and showcased his versatility as a player. 

During his sophomore season in 2023, he played in 52 games with 41 starts, making an impact both at the plate and on the mound. 

He recorded 11 multi-hit games, eight multi-RBI games and proved to be a threat on the basepaths, going 13-for-14 in stolen bases. 

On the mound, he appeared in 11 games, starting seven, and struck out 21 batters across 23.2 innings.

After his time at Houston, Lott transferred to Sam Houston State, where he continued to impress. 

He recorded 18 multi-hit games, including a five-hit performance against Baylor. 

His bat heated up with a two-homer game against St. John’s, and he proved his reliability on the mound with nine scoreless outings out of the bullpen. 

His ability to string together dominant performances made him a key player for the Bearkats.

Now, Lott is back where it all began, bringing the experience and confidence he gained from his time away. 

“I have developed my power and ability to pitch since I’ve been here,” Lott said. “I am more mature with the game now that I have gotten some more innings and at-bats in.”

Building a UH legacy

His return to Houston is not just a homecoming but an opportunity to cement his legacy with the program.

Beyond the statistics, Lott’s return represents something more personal. Baseball has always been about adjustments, and he has made plenty throughout his career. 

His versatility as a hitter and pitcher makes him a valuable asset to any team. Now, the Cougars are reaping the benefits once again. 

Houston baseball is seeking success in a loaded Big 12 conference this season.

“This team is gritty,” Lott said. “We practice hard and get after it every day.”

Lott’s experience and steady presence could be crucial in guiding the team through the year’s highs and lows.

Lott’s impact on the Cougars will be closely watched as the season unfolds. 

But one thing is sure: whether at Houston or Sam Houston, Lott has always found a way to make his presence felt. 

Now, back in familiar territory, he has the chance to leave his legacy as a Cougar. One built on resilience, versatility and a relentless drive to win.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Malachi Lott: A journey back to Houston” was originally posted on The Cougar

Malachi Lott (13) gears up for a pitch in a fall scrimmage. | Rin Christensen/The Cougar.

For Malachi Lott, baseball has always been about the journey. The senior outfielder and left-handed pitcher has seen his career come full circle. 

“I’ve been doing both pitching and hitting my whole life, and it is something I enjoy,” Lott said. “I embrace the opportunity to do the extra work.”

Path back to Houston

He began his career at Houston, moved to Sam Houston State and has now returned to wear the Cougars’ jersey again.

Transitioning between programs is never easy, but his ability to adapt and excel at Houston and Sam Houston State speaks volumes about his work ethic and determination.

“It felt like God’s plan to return here, and I trusted my gut,” Lott said. “So, I’m back in Houston where it all started.”

Don Sanders Classic

Tuesday’s game marked the 178th meeting and the start of this year’s Don Sanders Classic, the second-most-played series in Houston history. 

Lott has played in every Don Sanders Classic matchup since his freshman year; this season is no exception.

However, this time, Lott returns to the event, having represented both Houston and Sam Houston State on the field.

Stepping onto the field for yet another Don Sanders Classic, this time back in Cougar red, it’s clear that Lott’s journey has shaped him into the player he is today. 

Already making history, he became the first Cougar since 2006 to hit a home run and earn a win in the same game, showcasing his dominance on both sides of the ball. 

His clutch homer and strong performance on the mound fueled Houston’s victory, making the moment even sweeter against the team he once played for.

Lott’s versitily on display

Lott is a Portland, Texas native and was a standout athlete at Gregory-Portland High School. 

He initially joined the Cougars for his freshman season and showcased his versatility as a player. 

During his sophomore season in 2023, he played in 52 games with 41 starts, making an impact both at the plate and on the mound. 

He recorded 11 multi-hit games, eight multi-RBI games and proved to be a threat on the basepaths, going 13-for-14 in stolen bases. 

On the mound, he appeared in 11 games, starting seven, and struck out 21 batters across 23.2 innings.

After his time at Houston, Lott transferred to Sam Houston State, where he continued to impress. 

He recorded 18 multi-hit games, including a five-hit performance against Baylor. 

His bat heated up with a two-homer game against St. John’s, and he proved his reliability on the mound with nine scoreless outings out of the bullpen. 

His ability to string together dominant performances made him a key player for the Bearkats.

Now, Lott is back where it all began, bringing the experience and confidence he gained from his time away. 

“I have developed my power and ability to pitch since I’ve been here,” Lott said. “I am more mature with the game now that I have gotten some more innings and at-bats in.”

Building a UH legacy

His return to Houston is not just a homecoming but an opportunity to cement his legacy with the program.

Beyond the statistics, Lott’s return represents something more personal. Baseball has always been about adjustments, and he has made plenty throughout his career. 

His versatility as a hitter and pitcher makes him a valuable asset to any team. Now, the Cougars are reaping the benefits once again. 

Houston baseball is seeking success in a loaded Big 12 conference this season.

“This team is gritty,” Lott said. “We practice hard and get after it every day.”

Lott’s experience and steady presence could be crucial in guiding the team through the year’s highs and lows.

Lott’s impact on the Cougars will be closely watched as the season unfolds. 

But one thing is sure: whether at Houston or Sam Houston, Lott has always found a way to make his presence felt. 

Now, back in familiar territory, he has the chance to leave his legacy as a Cougar. One built on resilience, versatility and a relentless drive to win.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Malachi Lott: A journey back to Houston” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston guard L.J Cryer (4) jukes Troy forward Jackson Fields during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, in Houston, Texas. | Emma Christensen/The Cougar

No. 15 Houston men’s basketball defeated Troy 62-42 in Fertitta Center on Tuesday to extend their home winning streak to 27, the longest in the nation. 

During this game, UH set a record for the fewest points allowed in a first half in program history, as they limited the Trojans to just 11 points in the opening half. Their previous best came in 2016 when they held UConn to 12 first-half points.

“Our defense is more connected, our communication is so much better,” coach Kelvin Sampson said.

On the offensive front, Houston’s graduate guard L.J. Cryer led the way with a game-high 22 points on the night. He scored 11 of Houston’s last 15 in the opening half, in his third straight 20-point game. 

“L.J. reminded me, for the first time he was here, of Marcus Sasser, especially tonight because this is the kind of game Marcus would always show up in,” Sampson said. “ L.J. played like a senior. He plays like, ‘This is the next game on our schedule. No matter who we play, this is an important game. I will come out tonight.’ I think that is a step forward in his leadership.”

Redshirt junior guard Emanuel Sharp was a key contributor adding 14 points to the scoreboard while contributing to four rebounds and assists, with three steals.

Troy struggled to find a rhythm, frequently turning the ball over under pressure for a total of ten times, giving UH the opportunity to score those points for themselves. 

The first half demonstrated UH’s defensive ability to convert hustle plays into points as they ended the first half up 33-11.

Redshirt sophomore guard Terrance Arceneaux contributed with a pull-up jumper while Cryer drilled a critical three-pointer to extend Houston’s lead to 45-24 in the second half. 

The Cougars walked away with a decisive victory, propelled by their defensive discipline and a balanced offensive attack. 

The Cougars improved to 6-3 on the season. 

Their next game is against the Toledo Rockets on Wednesday, Dec 18 at 7:00 pm at the Fertitta Center.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“No. 15 Houston men’s basketball stifles Troy, breaks school record” was originally posted on The Cougar

A.J. Haulcy, Houston’s interception leader runs with the ball. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Houston football (4-7) is set to face the No. 19 BYU Cougars (9-2) on Saturday in Provo, Utah

Houston looks to stay motivated amind loosing their bowl eligibilty with last week’s loss to Baylor. Meanwhile, BYU seeks to overcome its recent struggles and protect its home turf in this late-season showdown.

“This is our bowl game in my opinion,” coach Willie Fritz said. “This is a big one for us.”

A New Era Post Coordinator Change

Houston enters this game following a shake-up in leadership with the firing of their offensive coordinator Kevin Barbay. Interim coordinator and quarterback coach/passing coordinator Shaw Bell looks to make his mark on the offense.

This change brings uncertainty and allows the Cougars to adapt and improve on offense, which has been stagnant having yet to score a touchdown in four games this season.

“As we continue to assess every aspect of our program, it is clear we have not met our offensive standards,” coach Fritz said. “Our focus is on finishing the season strong Saturday against BYU.”

Cougar vs Cougar history

The history between the BYU Cougars and the UH Cougars is relatively brief. The two programs had only met three times before this season. 

The most recent matchup occurred during the pandemic-altered 2020 season. Playing at TDECU Stadium in Houston, former BYU quarterback Zach Wilson showcased his future NFL potential, throwing for 400 yards and four touchdowns. UH led early but couldn’t contain BYU’s explosive offense in the second half.

This season’s game introduces higher stakes, with Provo’s cold conditions and altitude will also challenge Houston.

While the history is short, the games have been exciting, and this year’s contest could add another chapter to the budding conference rivalry between these two Cougar programs.

Cold Conditions in Provo

Early forecasts predict temperatures near 30 degrees at kickoff, rivaling some of the coldest regular-season games in Houston football history. 

The coldest game in UH history was 20 degrees during the 1979 Cotton Bowl against Notre Dame in Dallas. 

Only two other sub-30-degree games in UH’s 76-year history, the 1977 Cotton Bowl vs. Maryland, which was 29 degrees, and the 2022 Independence Bowl vs. Louisiana, which was 25 degrees.

“I’ve played in a lot of cold games,” Fritz said. “You’ve just got to have some cold gear and get ready to go. It seems like once you get out there, it’s not as big a deal as you think.”

Houston must prepare for not only the temperature and the challenges posed by playing in BYU’s high-altitude home environment.

Limited forward momentum

Both teams are coming off back-to-back losses and are hungry for victory.

For the UH, redshirt freshman running back Re’Shaun Sanford II leads the rushing attack with 413 yards. Sanford’s ability to break through BYU’s defense will be crucial for Houston’s offensive success.

Houston’s defense has been the team’s strongest unit and is ranked sixth in the Big 12.  Junior defensive backs A.J. Haulcy and Jerimiah Wilson lead the Cougars in interceptions with five and four respectively.

On the other hand, the Houston offense has had its struggles, with the recent firing of its coordinator, UH hasn’t been able to gain momentum since their win over Kansas. With many inconsistencies with the quarterback position.

UH managed to average 13.6 points per game with a total of 18 touchdowns throughout the whole season.  With the hardship to capitalize on crucial situations such as the red zone opportunities. With the offence only converted 164 total first down this season.

BYU enters Saturday’s matchup more balanced with their offense averaging 31 points per game and making 40 touchdowns this season. 

While their offense has been productive they have their own struggles with their third down efficiency just stands 34.88%, which can be an upside for UH. 

The Opponent

As BYU fights to secure its spot in the college football playoffs, and Big 12 Championship game they will need to bring the firepower that allowed them to start the season 9-0. 

BYU enters this game with a strong offensive unit led by redshirt junior quarterback Jake Retzlaff, who has thrown for 2,629 yards and 20 touchdowns and passed for a career-high 348 yards early in the season.

Retzlaff with redshirt junior wide receiver Chase Roberts, who leads the team with 767 yards and four touchdowns, will be a significant challenge for the Cougars defense.

Let the game begin

BYU’s high-powered offense will challenge UH’s defense. For UH, sustaining drives and avoiding turnovers are critical to staying competitive, as their offense has lagged behind all season.

This matchup promises to be a battle of strengths between BYU’s dynamic offense and Houston’s disciplined defense.

The season finale kickoff is on Saturday at 9:15 p.m. at the LaVell Edwards Stadium, Provo, Utah, on FS1.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Week 14 preview: Cougars look to end season with a win over No. 19 BYU” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston coach Willie Fritz stands with hands on hips and his eyes on the ground. Image from matchup earlier in the season. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Houston football has yet to win a game this season where they lost the turnover battle, their matchup on Nov. 15 against Arizona at the Arizona stadium.

The Cougars lost the ball four times with three fumbles and one interception, only snagging a single interception of their own from senior defensive back Hershey McLaurin in the fourth quarter.

The loss follows a trend for the Cougars, who have struggled after off weeks this season.

Their recent 42-14 loss to Kansas after a bye week was another example of the team’s challenges when returning to action after a week off. If taking into account the first week of the season and two games coming off a bye, the Cougars have been outscored 96-24.

“We have been doing a good job playing smart and being plus in turnover takeaway, we did not do that,” coach Willie Fritz said. “We had some foolish penalties.”

The rust showed from the start that it was anything but smooth, as their first two drives ended with two costly turnovers.

The first drive ended abruptly when freshman running back J’Marion Burnette coughed up the ball at the Arizona 45-yard line. 

The Wildcats capitalized on the mistake and scored the game’s first touchdown when sophomore quarterback Noah Fifita threw a 33-yard touchdown pass to junior wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. 

The Cougar took possession for the second time, but disaster struck when Burnette fought for an extra yard but fumbled the ball in the process. 

Although the Cougar managed to recover, they came up short of the first down marker, turning the ball over.

Houston’s longest drive took shape at the start of the second when sophomore quarterback Zeon Chriss and redshirt freshman running back Re’Shaun Sanford II had some strong runs to get the Cougars to the Arizona 1-yard line, but it was not enough.

Even senior quarterback Donovan Smith entered the game but could not get the Cougars over the threshold. On fourth down, Chriss threw a pass that was broken up by an Arizona defender, marking a failed red zone trip for Houston.

Later in the quarter, junior wide receiver Mekhi Mews sparked excitement on the Houston sideline with what seemed to be a touchdown via a punt return. However, the play was called back due to a Houston penalty.  

Houston went backward five yards before Chriss threw an interception into the hands of sophomore defensive back Genesis Smith at Arizona’s 39-yard line. 

Arizona’s field goal attempt on the ensuing drive ended in disaster, as they fumbled the snap, giving Houston the ball back at their own 20-yard line with less than three minutes left. This gave the Cougars a crucial opportunity to take control.

UH pushed with senior kicker Jack Martin’s field goal attempt from 49 yards, changing the score bored to 7-3

Arizona’s senior kicker Tyler Loop hit a career-long field from 62 yards to end the half with a 10-3 advantage. 

In the third, the Cougars attempted a fake punt to get some traction by sending out senior quarterback Holman Edwards. However, the pass to junior wide receiver Stephon Johnson fell short and went under review, resulting in a loss of downs.

At the start of the third, the Wildcats scored another touchdown with a 13-yard pass from Fifita to senior running back Quali Conley to give the Wildcats a 14 point lead

Conley scored another touchdown up the middle for a gain of 50 yards, which changed the score 27-3 with less than five minutes in the quarter.

On the Cougars’ last drive, Stanford fumbled the ball, killing Houston’s last hopes of scoring a touchdown. For the third time this season, the team walked off the field with no touchdowns to their name. 

“We are just having a tough time getting any movement,” Fritz said. “We were hoping to start the second half well, but we didn’t.”

Carlos Allen finished with three tackles and 1.5 sacks, as Keith Cooper Jr. tallied six tackles and one sack of his own. 

The Cougars are now 4-6 on the year and 3-4 in Big 12 play, and with only two games remaining, UH faces a crucial stretch to keep their bowl hopes alive. 

Looking ahead, the Cougars’ next game is on Nov. 23 against the Baylor Bears. Houston will sport its blue uniforms while honoring its seniors.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Cougars falls short against Arizona: Slip to 4-6 on the season” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston Guard Mercy Miller (25) prepares a free throw during the second half of an NCAA college Men’s Basketball game, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024 in Houston, Texas. |Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

As freshman guard Mercy Miller and freshman forward Chase McCarty lace up for their first season with Houston men’s basketball, they are doing more than just putting on a new jersey; they are stepping into a whole new world.

They will not only be adapting to playing at the next level but competing with one of the best basketball programs in the nation.

“This isn’t high school anymore,” Miller said. “It is tough being an athlete for a top team, but I am finding ways to stay on top of my basketball and academics.”

A scorer and a sharpshooter

Miller, known for his explosive scoring ability, was a standout at Notre Dame High School in Los Angeles, Calif.

There he averaged nearly 30 points per game. His powerful presence on the court earned him national recognition, as he won the SB Live CIF Southern Section Offensive Player of the Year in his home state and MVP honors at the Iverson Classic in Hampton, Va.

As he enters his first season with UH, Miller is focused on translating his high school success into contributions that benefit the team as a whole.

“I want to show people what we have been working on as a team and what I have been working on,” Miller said. “Our ultimate goal is to win a national championship.”

McCarty, a sharpshooter, originally from Huntsville, Ala., also hopes to achieve greatness with Houston.

He played with Florida’s IMG Academy in high school and won the three-point shooting title at Under Armour’s Elite 24 last summer.

Houston’s emphasis on grit and player growth made it the perfect fit for him.

“Coach Sampson is going to push you to be the best, and that’s exactly what I need,” McCarty said.

UH’s experienced teammates and supportive coaching staff have played a pivotal role in helping Miller and McCarty with their transition to a new environment.

Mentorship from upperclassmen

Both recruits have found mentors among upperclassmen who understand what it’s like to step into college basketball’s spotlight for the first time.

McCarty connected with graduate forward J’Wan Roberts and graduate guard L.J. Cryer. These teammates brought his confidence back up through the tough times. They would tell him to play hard, and that coach would appreciate it.

But it’s not only what they say but also how they present themselves to the young athlete.

“Watching the way L.J. comes in every day ready to practice has been pushing me to get a lot better,” McCarty said.

Likewise, Miller found a mentor in redshirt sophomore guard Terrance Arceneaux, who has faced adversity and was sidelined for a significant part of the 2023 season due to a torn Achilles tendon.

“Terrance helped me the most, just because his freshman year was rough; he shows me what to do, what not to do, and how to get on the coach’s good side,” Miller said.

Luckily, for the newcomers, Houston’s culture ensures everyone is held to the same standard, regardless of their classification or experience.

“Our job is making sure they are putting their best foot forward every single day, and that’s how they are gonna get better,” Arceneaux said.

First college basketball action

During Houston’s exhibition game against the Texas A&M Aggies, coach Sampson gave the two young recruits their first taste of college basketball.

Miller seized the moment, bringing energy off the bench and scoring 11 points, making five of his seven shots.

McCarty also played his first minutes, making an impact with a defensive rebound and block in his brief time on the court.

This game demonstrates Houston’s reputation for nurturing talent only grows stronger with Miller and McCarty’s additions to the team. Sampson highlights how the program’s development approach transformed senior forward Ja’Vier Francis, who went from a low point as a freshman to starting on a nationally ranked team.

“Player development is what we’re all about. It’ll be interesting to watch Mercy and Chase’s journeys. Both journeys are equally important,” Sampson said.

Building on a legacy

The addition of Miller and McCarty only strengthens this legacy UH holds for its players.

Both freshmen are learning what it means to be part of a program that values growth, community, and hard work.

“We do a great job creating value in our players,” Sampson said.

He has a track record of developing young talent, which was a significant factor in both athletes’ decision to commit to the Cougars.

Houston has established itself as a powerhouse in developing NBA talent, with recent players like Jamal Shead, Jarrace Walker, and

Marcus Sasser making significant strides at the professional level.

Shead now plays for the Toronto Raptors, Walker is a key contributor for the Indiana Pacers, and Sasser is continuing his career with the Detroit Pistons.

Houston’s basketball program has built a reputation for turning high-level young talent into professional success.
The program’s ability to consistently produce NBA-caliber players highlights its commitment to shaping athletes who can succeed at the highest levels of basketball.

With the loss of players every year to the NBA draft, transfer portal or graduation, coach Sampson relies heavily on the development of his young athletes to fill in the gaps in the program.

“I don’t try to replace players; I try to make our team better,” Sampson said.

Miller and McCarty were the only recruits in their class for a reason. They were chosen not just for their skills on the court but for how well they fit the UH culture.

They are also vital to each other’s success. Each athlete pushes each other hard in practice and will tell you they are the better three-point shooter of the pair.

The friendly rivalry between the two freshmen allows them to hold each other accountable daily in practice.

For Miller and McCarty, this season is about more than numbers and victories; it’s about developing under Houston’s experienced upperclassmen and setting themselves up to be the program’s future.

While minutes on the floor aren’t guaranteed, growth opportunities are plentiful for any budding contributor.

“I think what freshmen do best is make mistakes because to them basketball is a game of great plays and to me it’s a game of eliminating mistakes, so you have two counter thought processes going right away,” Sampson said. “Two of the most valuable lessons you can teach a young man is how to listen and follow instructions. That thing coming out of my mouth-that thing you hear is not something to cause vibrations inside your eardrum son. Those are words that are meant to be followed, and they have to learn that.”

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“New faces, big expectations: Miller, McCarty join Houston’s legacy” was originally posted on The Cougar