In a highly anticipated matchup between No. 7 Houston and No. 12 Kansas, it was the Cougars who emerged victorious in a thrilling 92-86 double-overtime victory on Saturday night.
J’Wan Roberts led the charge for Houston with an impressive 24-point performance, including crucial baskets in both overtime periods. His two clutch free throws with 13.9 seconds remaining in regulation sent the game into overtime.
Mylik Wilson contributed 18 points for the Cougars, while Milos Uzan nearly recorded a triple-double with 17 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists.
On the other side, Kansas was led by Flory Bidunga's 19 points and Hunter Dickinson's 17-point effort.
Key Moments and Stats
One of the key turning points in the game was Houston's 13-0 run early in the second half, erasing a 40-31 deficit and giving them the lead. Kansas struggled during this stretch, going over six minutes without scoring and missing eight consecutive shots.
Both teams had their share of missed opportunities, particularly at the free-throw line. The teams combined to shoot a subpar 56% from the charity stripe, with Houston missing its first eight free throws in the second half alone.
Injury Concerns and Player Contributions
Houston faced injury challenges during the game, with Emanuel Sharp and Ja'Vier Francis both dealing with setbacks. Sharp, who returned from injury, played 25 minutes but only scored eight points, while Francis was limited to just under four minutes of play due to an ankle injury.
Bidunga's standout performance for Kansas, especially in the second half and overtime, was crucial in the absence of K.J. Adams, who was sidelined with a separated shoulder.
Upcoming Games
Looking ahead, Houston will travel to face West Virginia on Wednesday night, while Kansas is set to host UCF on Tuesday night.
Overall, the intense battle between these two powerhouse teams provided fans with a memorable double-overtime showdown that showcased the resilience and skill of both programs.
