Houston quarterback Austin Carlisle (19) leaps over defensive back Elijah Young (37) during the Spring Football game, Saturday, April 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Houston football competed in the annual red-white game on Saturday, April 19, at the Carl Lewis International Complex.

“I like how they started with a practice and did individual drills before the 11-on-11,” Houston fan David Comer said. “I enjoyed seeing the offense play well and look forward to this season.”

Houston’s quarterbacks showcase athleticism 

“We would like all of our quarterbacks to be able to run,” coach Willie Fritz said. “We enjoy having guys that can be a dual threat.”

Houston’s quarterback room showcased that everyone can do both run and pass in drills and the scrimmage.

Junior quarterback Conner Weigman showcased his talent by leading the team down the field on the first drive and picking up several yards with his legs.

Weigman also tossed the ball to senior running back Stacy Sneed, who capped off a 65-yard drive with a touchdown.

“I felt like our spring went well,” Weigman said. “We went out there and got better each day and accomplished our goals.”

Freshman quarterback Austin Carlisle also showcased his running ability as he broke away for a 20-yard gain and rushed in for a touchdown.

“Austin played good today, that’s my guy,” Weigman said. “He is always picking my brain, and I love that. I remember when I was a freshman, I was doing the same thing, so it’s been cool to see.”

Cougars’ wide receivers impress in spring game

Houston’s wide receivers earned several rounds of applause throughout the red-white game with many athletic grabs.

In 7-on-7, Weigman fired a 50-yard touchdown pass deep to redshirt freshman wide receiver Kobe Young to start things off.

Young also caught a ball for a gain of 35 yards in the game from junior quarterback Ui Ale.

Houston’s junior wide receiver Amare Thomas also made his name known quickly by snagging a tough catch for a 20-yard gain in the game.

“That catch by Amare was insane,” Houston fan Braden Thompson said. “That is a good way to become a fan favorite.”

Senior wide receiver Stephon Johnson is one of Houston’s leaders and is relied on by Fritz and staff to teach the younger guys Houston’s culture.

“Everyone came in having to adjust to a new quarterback and new offensive coordinator,” Johnson said. “We are still a long way from where we need to get to, but we have got better as a unit and have progressed.”

Houston’s deep backfield

Sneed led the running backs and was able to score a touchdown and get some reps at wide receiver.

Sophomores’ Re’Shaun Sandord II, J’Marion Burnette, DJ Butler, senior Dean Connors and Sneed were among the top performers at running back in the spring. 

“We have a good group. Sneed had a good run where he reversed field, and Re’Shaun had several good runs this spring,” Fritz said. “DJ Butler, Burnette and Dean have all been great and play hard.”

Cougars reload offensive line

Houston ranked last in the Big 12 in offense last season, and improving this area was a major focus during the offseason.

The Cougars added five offensive linemen from the transfer portal to strengthen their offensive line.

“I am excited about our offensive line, and I think we are big time improved in that area,” Fritz said. “We’ve got five guys with Division I starting experience. Combining those guys with the returners, it is a night and day difference from last season.”

Houston’s tough defense

On the defensive side of the ball, Houston finished fourth in the Big 12 in total defense last season and was a bright spot for the Cougars.

Junior jack Latreveon McCutchin is a leader of the defense and showcased Houston’s elite defense early, picking up a sack on the first possession. 

Junior defensive back Kentrell Webb deflected several passes throughout the game and is the leader of the secondary.

“Webb has done a dynamite job,” Fritz said. “He is very vocal, which is part of it, but he says the right things vocally, and that is the other part.”

Senior defensive lineman Carlos Allen Jr. is the leader of the defensive line and has multiple years of experience in Division I.

“Carlos has been here a year and knows how we do things,” Fritz said.

Junior defensive back C.J. Douglas also made some noise in the game, landing several big hits and making several plays on the ball.

Sophomore defensive back Johnsley Barbas ended the game strong with a late interception, finishing his day on top.

Looking ahead

Houston football now enters the “Student-Athlete Discretionary period,” where everything a student athlete does has to be voluntary.

“The NCAA is allowing you to do a lot more, so 15 practices was just about enough,” Fritz said. “We got a lot out of the spring, and it is time for our guys to rest and get healthy, and we will get back after at the end of April when we start working out again.”

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston football wraps up spring practice in action packed red-white game” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston Cougars quarterback Zeon Chriss (2) warming up during spring practice on Saturday, April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas. | Joshua Braggs/The Cougar

Houston football is set to compete in its annual red-white game on Saturday, April 19, at the Carl Lewis International Complex.

Junior defensive back Kentrell Webb is in his second year at UH and is a leader that coach Willie Fritz brought with him from Tulane.

“In the spring game, I just want to have fun,” Webb said. “It is a celebration for all the work we did in the spring, and for some of the new guys, this will be their first time in uniform, so it will be a fun experience.”

Houston’s defense set for continued success

The defense was a strong component of last year’s team, and is now working to improve under the direction of a new defensive coordinator.

In 2024, Webb recorded 35 solo tackles, 19 assists, three passes deflected, and a fumble recovery. The Katy, Texas product is now adjusting to Houston’s new defensive coordinator, Austin Armstrong, and has clear goals for the upcoming season.

“Coach Armstrong is a good defensive coordinator and wants to win, so we are all pulling in the same direction,” Webb said. “We are trying to be the best in the Big 12 and best in the nation defensively. Our goal is to be Big 12 champions.”

Houston ranked fourth in overall defense in the Big 12 last season, and they’ve added nine transfers to an already talented defense. 

Senior defensive back Latrell McCutchin Jr. is a key leader for the defense and a big reason for last season’s success.

“This week has been full of excitement, and this team is in a great place,” McCutchin Jr. said. “We’re the only ones who believe in us right now, which motivates us to keep pushing.”

Offense adds new coordinator and several key transfers

On the other side of the ball, the Cougars’ offense is also adjusting to their new coordinator, Slade Nagel.

Nagel has good familiarity with Fritz as they coached together at Tulane for eight seasons, and in the 2022-2023 season, the two coaches led the Green Waves to a 12-2 overall record and defeated No. 10 USC 46-45 in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.

“Coach Fritz does such a good job of building team culture and getting the best out of players, and that’s what made that team special,” Nagel said. “Now our goal is to replicate that success with this program and the talent we have here.”

One of Houston’s most talented position groups is the quarterback room. Junior Connor Weigman, Zeon Chriss, Ui Ale, Jake Sock, sophomore Indiana Wijay and freshman Austin Carlisle are all a part of the loaded quarterback room.

“Weigman has done a really good job adjusting to the program, and he is a good teammate who has plenty of experience,” Fritz said. “I also thought Zeon has looked great. He does so many things, such as his movement, running ability and throwing it on the move that you can’t coach.”

To complement the quarterbacks, Houston also added to their running back room, led by senior Stacy Sneed, with senior Rice transfer Dean Connors.

Connors rushed for 1,679 yards and 16 touchdowns at Rice, adding 113 receptions for 912 yards and six touchdowns. 

“He is very smart, has great movement and speed and has great catching ability,” Fritz said. “Dean is going to play a lot for us.”

UH also added two wide receivers, junior Louisiana transfer Harvey Broussard and junior UAB transfer Amare Thomas.

The two receivers combined for 93 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in the 2024 season and bring plenty of explosiveness to this Cougar offense.

Houston added another pass catcher in sophomore Tulsa transfer Luke McGary. He is known for his run blocking but still managed 17 catches for 231 yards and a touchdown while averaging 13.6 yards per catch in his 2024 campaign.

Cougars add five offensive linemen from transfer portal

Houston ranked dead last in the Big 12 last year in offensive efficiency and a big reason why was the offensive line. 

The Cougars ranked 122nd in the country in pass protection and averaged almost five penalties per game.

UH addressed this problem immediately in the first portal window by adding five offensive linemen which include: senior New Mexico transfer McKenzie Agnello, senior Oklahoma State transfer Jason Brooks Jr., junior Baylor transfer Alvin Ebosele, senior Texas Tech transfer Dalton Merryman and senior California transfer Mathew Wykoff.

“One of the things we focus on with the offensive line in Spring ball is giving them a starting position,” Fritz said. “As we progress into the third week, we’ll move them around because we want to play our best five guys.”

Fritz and his crew wanted offensive linemen with size and experience. They brought in four seniors and one junior, with an average weight of 311 pounds.

Houston’s staff used the portal and high school recruiting to their advantage this offseason. Now, fans will get a first look at the new look Houston Cougars at the red-white game on Saturday.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s annual red-white football preview” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston Cougars quarterback Zeon Chriss (2) warming up during spring practice on Saturday, April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas. | Joshua Braggs/The Cougar

Houston football is set to compete in its annual red-white game on Saturday, April 19, at the Carl Lewis International Complex.

Junior defensive back Kentrell Webb is in his second year at UH and is a leader that coach Willie Fritz brought with him from Tulane.

“In the spring game, I just want to have fun,” Webb said. “It is a celebration for all the work we did in the spring, and for some of the new guys, this will be their first time in uniform, so it will be a fun experience.”

Houston’s defense set for continued success

The defense was a strong component of last year’s team, and is now working to improve under the direction of a new defensive coordinator.

In 2024, Webb recorded 35 solo tackles, 19 assists, three passes deflected, and a fumble recovery. The Katy, Texas product is now adjusting to Houston’s new defensive coordinator, Austin Armstrong, and has clear goals for the upcoming season.

“Coach Armstrong is a good defensive coordinator and wants to win, so we are all pulling in the same direction,” Webb said. “We are trying to be the best in the Big 12 and best in the nation defensively. Our goal is to be Big 12 champions.”

Houston ranked fourth in overall defense in the Big 12 last season, and they’ve added nine transfers to an already talented defense. 

Senior defensive back Latrell McCutchin Jr. is a key leader for the defense and a big reason for last season’s success.

“This week has been full of excitement, and this team is in a great place,” McCutchin Jr. said. “We’re the only ones who believe in us right now, which motivates us to keep pushing.”

Offense adds new coordinator and several key transfers

On the other side of the ball, the Cougars’ offense is also adjusting to their new coordinator, Slade Nagel.

Nagel has good familiarity with Fritz as they coached together at Tulane for eight seasons, and in the 2022-2023 season, the two coaches led the Green Waves to a 12-2 overall record and defeated No. 10 USC 46-45 in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.

“Coach Fritz does such a good job of building team culture and getting the best out of players, and that’s what made that team special,” Nagel said. “Now our goal is to replicate that success with this program and the talent we have here.”

One of Houston’s most talented position groups is the quarterback room. Junior Connor Weigman, Zeon Chriss, Ui Ale, Jake Sock, sophomore Indiana Wijay and freshman Austin Carlisle are all a part of the loaded quarterback room.

“Weigman has done a really good job adjusting to the program, and he is a good teammate who has plenty of experience,” Fritz said. “I also thought Zeon has looked great. He does so many things, such as his movement, running ability and throwing it on the move that you can’t coach.”

To complement the quarterbacks, Houston also added to their running back room, led by senior Stacy Sneed, with senior Rice transfer Dean Connors.

Connors rushed for 1,679 yards and 16 touchdowns at Rice, adding 113 receptions for 912 yards and six touchdowns. 

“He is very smart, has great movement and speed and has great catching ability,” Fritz said. “Dean is going to play a lot for us.”

UH also added two wide receivers, junior Louisiana transfer Harvey Broussard and junior UAB transfer Amare Thomas.

The two receivers combined for 93 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in the 2024 season and bring plenty of explosiveness to this Cougar offense.

Houston added another pass catcher in sophomore Tulsa transfer Luke McGary. He is known for his run blocking but still managed 17 catches for 231 yards and a touchdown while averaging 13.6 yards per catch in his 2024 campaign.

Cougars add five offensive linemen from transfer portal

Houston ranked dead last in the Big 12 last year in offensive efficiency and a big reason why was the offensive line. 

The Cougars ranked 122nd in the country in pass protection and averaged almost five penalties per game.

UH addressed this problem immediately in the first portal window by adding five offensive linemen which include: senior New Mexico transfer McKenzie Agnello, senior Oklahoma State transfer Jason Brooks Jr., junior Baylor transfer Alvin Ebosele, senior Texas Tech transfer Dalton Merryman and senior California transfer Mathew Wykoff.

“One of the things we focus on with the offensive line in Spring ball is giving them a starting position,” Fritz said. “As we progress into the third week, we’ll move them around because we want to play our best five guys.”

Fritz and his crew wanted offensive linemen with size and experience. They brought in four seniors and one junior, with an average weight of 311 pounds.

Houston’s staff used the portal and high school recruiting to their advantage this offseason. Now, fans will get a first look at the new look Houston Cougars at the red-white game on Saturday.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s annual red-white football preview” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston Cougars quarterback Zeon Chriss (2) warming up during spring practice on Saturday, April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas. | Joshua Braggs/The Cougar

Houston football is set to compete in its annual red-white game on Saturday, April 19, at the Carl Lewis International Complex.

Junior defensive back Kentrell Webb is in his second year at UH and is a leader that coach Willie Fritz brought with him from Tulane.

“In the spring game, I just want to have fun,” Webb said. “It is a celebration for all the work we did in the spring, and for some of the new guys, this will be their first time in uniform, so it will be a fun experience.”

Houston’s defense set for continued success

The defense was a strong component of last year’s team, and is now working to improve under the direction of a new defensive coordinator.

In 2024, Webb recorded 35 solo tackles, 19 assists, three passes deflected, and a fumble recovery. The Katy, Texas product is now adjusting to Houston’s new defensive coordinator, Austin Armstrong, and has clear goals for the upcoming season.

“Coach Armstrong is a good defensive coordinator and wants to win, so we are all pulling in the same direction,” Webb said. “We are trying to be the best in the Big 12 and best in the nation defensively. Our goal is to be Big 12 champions.”

Houston ranked fourth in overall defense in the Big 12 last season, and they’ve added nine transfers to an already talented defense. 

Senior defensive back Latrell McCutchin Jr. is a key leader for the defense and a big reason for last season’s success.

“This week has been full of excitement, and this team is in a great place,” McCutchin Jr. said. “We’re the only ones who believe in us right now, which motivates us to keep pushing.”

Offense adds new coordinator and several key transfers

On the other side of the ball, the Cougars’ offense is also adjusting to their new coordinator, Slade Nagel.

Nagel has good familiarity with Fritz as they coached together at Tulane for eight seasons, and in the 2022-2023 season, the two coaches led the Green Waves to a 12-2 overall record and defeated No. 10 USC 46-45 in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.

“Coach Fritz does such a good job of building team culture and getting the best out of players, and that’s what made that team special,” Nagel said. “Now our goal is to replicate that success with this program and the talent we have here.”

One of Houston’s most talented position groups is the quarterback room. Junior Connor Weigman, Zeon Chriss, Ui Ale, Jake Sock, sophomore Indiana Wijay and freshman Austin Carlisle are all a part of the loaded quarterback room.

“Weigman has done a really good job adjusting to the program, and he is a good teammate who has plenty of experience,” Fritz said. “I also thought Zeon has looked great. He does so many things, such as his movement, running ability and throwing it on the move that you can’t coach.”

To complement the quarterbacks, Houston also added to their running back room, led by senior Stacy Sneed, with senior Rice transfer Dean Connors.

Connors rushed for 1,679 yards and 16 touchdowns at Rice, adding 113 receptions for 912 yards and six touchdowns. 

“He is very smart, has great movement and speed and has great catching ability,” Fritz said. “Dean is going to play a lot for us.”

UH also added two wide receivers, junior Louisiana transfer Harvey Broussard and junior UAB transfer Amare Thomas.

The two receivers combined for 93 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in the 2024 season and bring plenty of explosiveness to this Cougar offense.

Houston added another pass catcher in sophomore Tulsa transfer Luke McGary. He is known for his run blocking but still managed 17 catches for 231 yards and a touchdown while averaging 13.6 yards per catch in his 2024 campaign.

Cougars add five offensive linemen from transfer portal

Houston ranked dead last in the Big 12 last year in offensive efficiency and a big reason why was the offensive line. 

The Cougars ranked 122nd in the country in pass protection and averaged almost five penalties per game.

UH addressed this problem immediately in the first portal window by adding five offensive linemen which include: senior New Mexico transfer McKenzie Agnello, senior Oklahoma State transfer Jason Brooks Jr., junior Baylor transfer Alvin Ebosele, senior Texas Tech transfer Dalton Merryman and senior California transfer Mathew Wykoff.

“One of the things we focus on with the offensive line in Spring ball is giving them a starting position,” Fritz said. “As we progress into the third week, we’ll move them around because we want to play our best five guys.”

Fritz and his crew wanted offensive linemen with size and experience. They brought in four seniors and one junior, with an average weight of 311 pounds.

Houston’s staff used the portal and high school recruiting to their advantage this offseason. Now, fans will get a first look at the new look Houston Cougars at the red-white game on Saturday.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s annual red-white football preview” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston Cougars quarterback Zeon Chriss (2) warming up during spring practice on Saturday, April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas. | Joshua Braggs/The Cougar

Houston football is set to compete in its annual red-white game on Saturday, April 19, at the Carl Lewis International Complex.

Junior defensive back Kentrell Webb is in his second year at UH and is a leader that coach Willie Fritz brought with him from Tulane.

“In the spring game, I just want to have fun,” Webb said. “It is a celebration for all the work we did in the spring, and for some of the new guys, this will be their first time in uniform, so it will be a fun experience.”

Houston’s defense set for continued success

The defense was a strong component of last year’s team, and is now working to improve under the direction of a new defensive coordinator.

In 2024, Webb recorded 35 solo tackles, 19 assists, three passes deflected, and a fumble recovery. The Katy, Texas product is now adjusting to Houston’s new defensive coordinator, Austin Armstrong, and has clear goals for the upcoming season.

“Coach Armstrong is a good defensive coordinator and wants to win, so we are all pulling in the same direction,” Webb said. “We are trying to be the best in the Big 12 and best in the nation defensively. Our goal is to be Big 12 champions.”

Houston ranked fourth in overall defense in the Big 12 last season, and they’ve added nine transfers to an already talented defense. 

Senior defensive back Latrell McCutchin Jr. is a key leader for the defense and a big reason for last season’s success.

“This week has been full of excitement, and this team is in a great place,” McCutchin Jr. said. “We’re the only ones who believe in us right now, which motivates us to keep pushing.”

Offense adds new coordinator and several key transfers

On the other side of the ball, the Cougars’ offense is also adjusting to their new coordinator, Slade Nagel.

Nagel has good familiarity with Fritz as they coached together at Tulane for eight seasons, and in the 2022-2023 season, the two coaches led the Green Waves to a 12-2 overall record and defeated No. 10 USC 46-45 in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.

“Coach Fritz does such a good job of building team culture and getting the best out of players, and that’s what made that team special,” Nagel said. “Now our goal is to replicate that success with this program and the talent we have here.”

One of Houston’s most talented position groups is the quarterback room. Junior Connor Weigman, Zeon Chriss, Ui Ale, Jake Sock, sophomore Indiana Wijay and freshman Austin Carlisle are all a part of the loaded quarterback room.

“Weigman has done a really good job adjusting to the program, and he is a good teammate who has plenty of experience,” Fritz said. “I also thought Zeon has looked great. He does so many things, such as his movement, running ability and throwing it on the move that you can’t coach.”

To complement the quarterbacks, Houston also added to their running back room, led by senior Stacy Sneed, with senior Rice transfer Dean Connors.

Connors rushed for 1,679 yards and 16 touchdowns at Rice, adding 113 receptions for 912 yards and six touchdowns. 

“He is very smart, has great movement and speed and has great catching ability,” Fritz said. “Dean is going to play a lot for us.”

UH also added two wide receivers, junior Louisiana transfer Harvey Broussard and junior UAB transfer Amare Thomas.

The two receivers combined for 93 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in the 2024 season and bring plenty of explosiveness to this Cougar offense.

Houston added another pass catcher in sophomore Tulsa transfer Luke McGary. He is known for his run blocking but still managed 17 catches for 231 yards and a touchdown while averaging 13.6 yards per catch in his 2024 campaign.

Cougars add five offensive linemen from transfer portal

Houston ranked dead last in the Big 12 last year in offensive efficiency and a big reason why was the offensive line. 

The Cougars ranked 122nd in the country in pass protection and averaged almost five penalties per game.

UH addressed this problem immediately in the first portal window by adding five offensive linemen which include: senior New Mexico transfer McKenzie Agnello, senior Oklahoma State transfer Jason Brooks Jr., junior Baylor transfer Alvin Ebosele, senior Texas Tech transfer Dalton Merryman and senior California transfer Mathew Wykoff.

“One of the things we focus on with the offensive line in Spring ball is giving them a starting position,” Fritz said. “As we progress into the third week, we’ll move them around because we want to play our best five guys.”

Fritz and his crew wanted offensive linemen with size and experience. They brought in four seniors and one junior, with an average weight of 311 pounds.

Houston’s staff used the portal and high school recruiting to their advantage this offseason. Now, fans will get a first look at the new look Houston Cougars at the red-white game on Saturday.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s annual red-white football preview” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston fan holds up a copy of the student section paper after the team advances to the National Championship, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Houston basketball defeated the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils 70-67 on Saturday night at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

With the win, Houston improved to 35-4 on the season and advanced to their first NCAA National Championship game since 1984.

Florida is seeking their third-ever National Title and first since it won back-to-back in 2006 and 2007.

The Cougars are seeking their first national title in program history, but they are faced with a tall task matching up with the Florida Gators.

The Gators finished third in points per game in the regular season with an average of 85.3.

Their high-octane offense is led by senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., who is averaging 18.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game.

Clayton Jr. powered Florida past the Auburn Tigers on Saturday with his career-high 34 points.

He has averaged 32 points per game in the previous two matchups and can shoot the 3-point shot well with a 39.2% from deep.

Florida has another electric duo of senior guards, Alijah Martin and Will Richard.

Martin averages 14.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game.

Richard averages 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.6 steals per game.

The pair of experienced guards both attack the rim and primarily score from the midrange.

Florida also ranks third in the nation with 39.1 rebounds per game, primarily due to their plethora of height throughout their team.

Sophomore forward Alex Condon is 6-foot-11 and averages 10.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 blocks per game.

Sophomore center Rueben Chinyelu is 6-foot-10 and rounds out the starting lineup for the Gators.

Chinyelu averages 6.0 points and 6.6 rebounds per game but is not known as a shot-blocker.

Florida has another pair of big men that come off the bench: sophomore forward Thomas Haugh and junior center Micah Handlogten.

Haugh is a 6-foot-9 forward who averages 9.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

He gives Florida another scoring threat who can drive and knock down 3-pointers shooting 34.7% on the season.

Handlogten is 7-foot-1 and primarily plays defense and grabs rebounds for the Gators averaging 5.0 per game.

The final player Florida will rotate is a talented offensive player with junior guard Denzel Aberdeen.

He averages 7.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists for the Gators this season.

Houston’s keys to the game

Florida’s height will be a tough matchup for Houston, and the Cougars will need to take advantage of missed shots and grab defensive rebounds to keep pace with an explosive Florida offense.

The Gators also rank 10th nationally in defensive efficiency and push the ball offensively on missed shots and turnovers.

Florida’s offense has been rattled throughout the season with tough defenses, so Houston’s No. 1-rated defense should be a tough matchup.

The Cougars take on the Gators on Monday, April 7, at 7:50 p.m. CT at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston men’s basketball to face Florida in national championship” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston fan holds up a copy of the student section paper after the team advances to the National Championship, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Houston basketball defeated the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils 70-67 on Saturday night at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

With the win, Houston improved to 35-4 on the season and advanced to their first NCAA National Championship game since 1984.

Florida is seeking their third-ever National Title and first since it won back-to-back in 2006 and 2007.

The Cougars are seeking their first national title in program history, but they are faced with a tall task matching up with the Florida Gators.

The Gators finished third in points per game in the regular season with an average of 85.3.

Their high-octane offense is led by senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., who is averaging 18.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game.

Clayton Jr. powered Florida past the Auburn Tigers on Saturday with his career-high 34 points.

He has averaged 32 points per game in the previous two matchups and can shoot the 3-point shot well with a 39.2% from deep.

Florida has another electric duo of senior guards, Alijah Martin and Will Richard.

Martin averages 14.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game.

Richard averages 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.6 steals per game.

The pair of experienced guards both attack the rim and primarily score from the midrange.

Florida also ranks third in the nation with 39.1 rebounds per game, primarily due to their plethora of height throughout their team.

Sophomore forward Alex Condon is 6-foot-11 and averages 10.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 blocks per game.

Sophomore center Rueben Chinyelu is 6-foot-10 and rounds out the starting lineup for the Gators.

Chinyelu averages 6.0 points and 6.6 rebounds per game but is not known as a shot-blocker.

Florida has another pair of big men that come off the bench: sophomore forward Thomas Haugh and junior center Micah Handlogten.

Haugh is a 6-foot-9 forward who averages 9.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

He gives Florida another scoring threat who can drive and knock down 3-pointers shooting 34.7% on the season.

Handlogten is 7-foot-1 and primarily plays defense and grabs rebounds for the Gators averaging 5.0 per game.

The final player Florida will rotate is a talented offensive player with junior guard Denzel Aberdeen.

He averages 7.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists for the Gators this season.

Houston’s keys to the game

Florida’s height will be a tough matchup for Houston, and the Cougars will need to take advantage of missed shots and grab defensive rebounds to keep pace with an explosive Florida offense.

The Gators also rank 10th nationally in defensive efficiency and push the ball offensively on missed shots and turnovers.

Florida’s offense has been rattled throughout the season with tough defenses, so Houston’s No. 1-rated defense should be a tough matchup.

The Cougars take on the Gators on Monday, April 7, at 7:50 p.m. CT at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston men’s basketball to face Florida in national championship” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston fan holds up a copy of the student section paper after the team advances to the National Championship, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Houston basketball defeated the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils 70-67 on Saturday night at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

With the win, Houston improved to 35-4 on the season and advanced to their first NCAA National Championship game since 1984.

Florida is seeking their third-ever National Title and first since it won back-to-back in 2006 and 2007.

The Cougars are seeking their first national title in program history, but they are faced with a tall task matching up with the Florida Gators.

The Gators finished third in points per game in the regular season with an average of 85.3.

Their high-octane offense is led by senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., who is averaging 18.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game.

Clayton Jr. powered Florida past the Auburn Tigers on Saturday with his career-high 34 points.

He has averaged 32 points per game in the previous two matchups and can shoot the 3-point shot well with a 39.2% from deep.

Florida has another electric duo of senior guards, Alijah Martin and Will Richard.

Martin averages 14.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game.

Richard averages 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.6 steals per game.

The pair of experienced guards both attack the rim and primarily score from the midrange.

Florida also ranks third in the nation with 39.1 rebounds per game, primarily due to their plethora of height throughout their team.

Sophomore forward Alex Condon is 6-foot-11 and averages 10.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 blocks per game.

Sophomore center Rueben Chinyelu is 6-foot-10 and rounds out the starting lineup for the Gators.

Chinyelu averages 6.0 points and 6.6 rebounds per game but is not known as a shot-blocker.

Florida has another pair of big men that come off the bench: sophomore forward Thomas Haugh and junior center Micah Handlogten.

Haugh is a 6-foot-9 forward who averages 9.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

He gives Florida another scoring threat who can drive and knock down 3-pointers shooting 34.7% on the season.

Handlogten is 7-foot-1 and primarily plays defense and grabs rebounds for the Gators averaging 5.0 per game.

The final player Florida will rotate is a talented offensive player with junior guard Denzel Aberdeen.

He averages 7.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists for the Gators this season.

Houston’s keys to the game

Florida’s height will be a tough matchup for Houston, and the Cougars will need to take advantage of missed shots and grab defensive rebounds to keep pace with an explosive Florida offense.

The Gators also rank 10th nationally in defensive efficiency and push the ball offensively on missed shots and turnovers.

Florida’s offense has been rattled throughout the season with tough defenses, so Houston’s No. 1-rated defense should be a tough matchup.

The Cougars take on the Gators on Monday, April 7, at 7:50 p.m. CT at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston men’s basketball to face Florida in national championship” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston fan holds up a copy of the student section paper after the team advances to the National Championship, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Houston basketball defeated the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils 70-67 on Saturday night at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

With the win, Houston improved to 35-4 on the season and advanced to their first NCAA National Championship game since 1984.

Florida is seeking their third-ever National Title and first since it won back-to-back in 2006 and 2007.

The Cougars are seeking their first national title in program history, but they are faced with a tall task matching up with the Florida Gators.

The Gators finished third in points per game in the regular season with an average of 85.3.

Their high-octane offense is led by senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., who is averaging 18.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game.

Clayton Jr. powered Florida past the Auburn Tigers on Saturday with his career-high 34 points.

He has averaged 32 points per game in the previous two matchups and can shoot the 3-point shot well with a 39.2% from deep.

Florida has another electric duo of senior guards, Alijah Martin and Will Richard.

Martin averages 14.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game.

Richard averages 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.6 steals per game.

The pair of experienced guards both attack the rim and primarily score from the midrange.

Florida also ranks third in the nation with 39.1 rebounds per game, primarily due to their plethora of height throughout their team.

Sophomore forward Alex Condon is 6-foot-11 and averages 10.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 blocks per game.

Sophomore center Rueben Chinyelu is 6-foot-10 and rounds out the starting lineup for the Gators.

Chinyelu averages 6.0 points and 6.6 rebounds per game but is not known as a shot-blocker.

Florida has another pair of big men that come off the bench: sophomore forward Thomas Haugh and junior center Micah Handlogten.

Haugh is a 6-foot-9 forward who averages 9.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

He gives Florida another scoring threat who can drive and knock down 3-pointers shooting 34.7% on the season.

Handlogten is 7-foot-1 and primarily plays defense and grabs rebounds for the Gators averaging 5.0 per game.

The final player Florida will rotate is a talented offensive player with junior guard Denzel Aberdeen.

He averages 7.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists for the Gators this season.

Houston’s keys to the game

Florida’s height will be a tough matchup for Houston, and the Cougars will need to take advantage of missed shots and grab defensive rebounds to keep pace with an explosive Florida offense.

The Gators also rank 10th nationally in defensive efficiency and push the ball offensively on missed shots and turnovers.

Florida’s offense has been rattled throughout the season with tough defenses, so Houston’s No. 1-rated defense should be a tough matchup.

The Cougars take on the Gators on Monday, April 7, at 7:50 p.m. CT at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston men’s basketball to face Florida in national championship” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston fan holds up a copy of the student section paper after the team advances to the National Championship, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Houston basketball defeated the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils 70-67 on Saturday night at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

With the win, Houston improved to 35-4 on the season and advanced to their first NCAA National Championship game since 1984.

Florida is seeking their third-ever National Title and first since it won back-to-back in 2006 and 2007.

The Cougars are seeking their first national title in program history, but they are faced with a tall task matching up with the Florida Gators.

The Gators finished third in points per game in the regular season with an average of 85.3.

Their high-octane offense is led by senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., who is averaging 18.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game.

Clayton Jr. powered Florida past the Auburn Tigers on Saturday with his career-high 34 points.

He has averaged 32 points per game in the previous two matchups and can shoot the 3-point shot well with a 39.2% from deep.

Florida has another electric duo of senior guards, Alijah Martin and Will Richard.

Martin averages 14.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game.

Richard averages 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.6 steals per game.

The pair of experienced guards both attack the rim and primarily score from the midrange.

Florida also ranks third in the nation with 39.1 rebounds per game, primarily due to their plethora of height throughout their team.

Sophomore forward Alex Condon is 6-foot-11 and averages 10.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 blocks per game.

Sophomore center Rueben Chinyelu is 6-foot-10 and rounds out the starting lineup for the Gators.

Chinyelu averages 6.0 points and 6.6 rebounds per game but is not known as a shot-blocker.

Florida has another pair of big men that come off the bench: sophomore forward Thomas Haugh and junior center Micah Handlogten.

Haugh is a 6-foot-9 forward who averages 9.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

He gives Florida another scoring threat who can drive and knock down 3-pointers shooting 34.7% on the season.

Handlogten is 7-foot-1 and primarily plays defense and grabs rebounds for the Gators averaging 5.0 per game.

The final player Florida will rotate is a talented offensive player with junior guard Denzel Aberdeen.

He averages 7.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists for the Gators this season.

Houston’s keys to the game

Florida’s height will be a tough matchup for Houston, and the Cougars will need to take advantage of missed shots and grab defensive rebounds to keep pace with an explosive Florida offense.

The Gators also rank 10th nationally in defensive efficiency and push the ball offensively on missed shots and turnovers.

Florida’s offense has been rattled throughout the season with tough defenses, so Houston’s No. 1-rated defense should be a tough matchup.

The Cougars take on the Gators on Monday, April 7, at 7:50 p.m. CT at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston men’s basketball to face Florida in national championship” was originally posted on The Cougar