HOUSTON – What a time to be a Coog! Whose house? Coogs House! As a University of Houston alumnae, it was such an illuminating feeling to see the wave of red and cheers after Houston advanced to the national title game. The energy in the city is electric as the University of Houston Cougars prepare to play in their first NCAA men’s basketball championship game in over 40 years. The game will air live on KHOU 11/CBS, with tipoff set for 7:50 p.m. on April 7, 2025.
Excitement is building in Houston, and the Cougars have captured national headlines thanks to their impressive journey through the tournament. Houston's thrilling come-from-behind victory against Duke in the Final Four has fans buzzing. The Cougars erased a 14-point deficit in the final eight minutes, clinching a 70-67 win that secured their shot at their first national title.
The Cougars will face off against the Florida Gators in the championship game, and the stakes couldn't be higher. With the city rallying behind them, the Cougars are not just playing for a trophy; they're playing for pride, legacy, and a chance to put Houston basketball back on the map.
Former Houston Rockets player and current analyst Kenny Smith has weighed in on the Cougars' journey, declaring that the 'Clutch City' label now belongs to Coach Kelvin Sampson’s squad. This recognition highlights the grit and determination that has defined the Cougars' run in the tournament.
As the anticipation builds, the players are feeling the weight of the moment. “I ride with my guys, you know, for 40 minutes any day,” one player said, reflecting the camaraderie and team spirit that has been pivotal to their success. Another player added, “Coach Sampson turned us around completely and here we are, National Championship game, we’re [ready].”
For fans still looking to attend the game in person, tickets are available on resale platforms like Vivid Seats, starting at about $250, with premium seats listed for nearly $9,000. The demand for this historic matchup underscores the significance of the event for the university and the city.
Even the university's beloved mascots are getting in on the excitement. Shasta VII and his brother, Louie, who live at the Houston Zoo, were spotted roaming their habitat, enjoying breakfast, and soaking up the game day energy. Zookeepers adorned their area with UH banners and treats to celebrate in true Cougar fashion. Shasta, now all grown up, has carried on the legacy of the university’s live mascot since arriving as a cub from Washington.
In addition to the team’s historic opportunity, senior guard LJ Cryer is on the brink of making NCAA history. He is chasing a second national title, this time as the Cougars’ leading scorer, averaging 15.6 points per game. Cryer, who previously won a championship with Baylor in 2021, is playing some of his best basketball at the perfect time. “I did get to sit there and see what it takes to win those type of games,” Cryer said, reflecting on his first title run. “This time, I’m doing more than watching.”
Should the Cougars triumph over Florida, Cryer would become the first men’s player to win NCAA titles at two different schools, a feat he acknowledges would be “definitely special.” However, he admits he would have preferred to achieve this at one institution, saying, “But my journey’s my journey.”
Coach Sampson, 69, stands on the brink of making history himself, as he could become the oldest coach to win a national title. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the team’s identity, which is rooted in defense, grit, and a no-frills culture that values effort over flash. Sampson has consistently emphasized that the Cougars may not have the biggest budget or the most star-studded roster, but they make up for it with hard work and determination.
The Cougars are not just playing for themselves; they are representing a community that has rallied around them. Houston rapper Paul Wall has announced that he and celebrity jeweler Johnny Dang will gift the Coogs custom Grillz if they beat Florida and win their first-ever NCAA title. This unique offer came after Houston’s dramatic comeback win over Duke, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already charged atmosphere.
As the countdown to tipoff continues, the city of Houston is buzzing with anticipation. The Cougars have a chance to make history, and the support from the community is palpable. Fans are eager to see their team take the court, not just as underdogs, but as a formidable force ready to claim their place in NCAA history.
Tonight’s championship game is more than just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of the University of Houston. As the Cougars prepare to take on Florida, all eyes will be on them, and the hope is that they will bring home the championship trophy, solidifying their legacy in the annals of college basketball.
