In a commanding performance that showcased their defensive prowess, the Houston Cougars triumphed over the Tennessee Volunteers with a decisive 69-50 victory in the Midwest Regional final on March 30, 2025. This victory not only secured Houston's spot in the Final Four but also marked a significant moment in the program's history, as they prepare to face Duke next Saturday at the Alamodome in San Antonio.
The Cougars, who entered the game as the top seed, demonstrated their defensive might from the outset, holding Tennessee to just 15 points in the first half. This astonishingly low score is now recorded as the fewest points scored in a half by a No. 1 or No. 2 seed in NCAA tournament history. Houston's defense was relentless, forcing the Volunteers into a dismal shooting performance, where they started the game 0-for-14 from beyond the arc.
By halftime, Houston had established a commanding 34-15 lead, with their defensive strategy effectively stifling Tennessee's offensive rhythm. According to ESPN Stats and Information, the 15 first-half points tied for the fewest in any half during a regional final, second only to Kentucky's 11 points in the second half of the 1984 Final Four.
In the second half, Tennessee attempted to mount a comeback, narrowing the gap to 10 points with just under six minutes remaining. However, Houston responded with a critical 9-2 scoring run, ultimately sealing the victory. L.J. Cryer led the Cougars with 17 points, while Emanuel Sharp made a significant impact with 16 points and was named the Most Outstanding Player for the Midwest Region.
Houston's head coach, Kelvin Sampson, expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, "We played with a lot of heart today. The defense set the tone early, and we never looked back." The Cougars have now won 17 consecutive games, showcasing their dominance as they head into the Final Four.
As for Tennessee, the loss ends their season with a record of 30-8, falling short of their goal to reach the program's first Final Four. Chaz Lanier and Jordan Gainey were the leading scorers for the Volunteers, each finishing with 17 points, but their efforts were not enough to overcome the Cougars' formidable defense.
The matchup against Duke will be a highly anticipated contest, as Houston looks to advance to the national championship game for the first time in program history. The Cougars have previously made it to the Final Four in 1967, 1968, 1982, 1983, and 1984, with their last appearance in 2021.
In the other Elite Eight matchup, the No. 1 Auburn Tigers are set to face No. 2 Michigan State, with the winner advancing to meet Florida in the Final Four. This game promises to deliver its own set of excitement, as both teams vie for a chance to continue their championship aspirations.
As fans eagerly await the Final Four, the spotlight remains on Houston, a team that has proven to be a force throughout the tournament. With their sights set on the national title, the Cougars are ready to make their mark on college basketball history.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the Final Four approaches, and watch as Houston aims to turn their dreams into reality in San Antonio.
