The University of Houston Men’s Basketball team enters the 2025-26 season with high hopes after a standout 2024-25 campaign. The Cougars solidified their elite status with a 35-5 record, Big 12 regular season and tournament titles, and a national championship game appearance.
Building on last season’s success, Houston has strengthened its roster with key transfer portal additions and retained essential players, making them a strong contender for the 2025-26 national championship. Following their runner-up finish, the Cougars aim to take the next step in pursuing the title.
Houston Cougars Set Their Sights on 2025-26 National Title with Key Transfer Additions
The University of Houston men’s basketball team heads into the 2025-26 season with high hopes after a near-championship run in 2024-25. The Cougars earned their second straight Big 12 regular-season title with a dominant 19-1 conference performance.
They also triumphed in the Big 12 tournament before reaching the national championship game, ultimately falling to Florida, 63-65, on April 7, 2025, in San Antonio. Despite the heart-wrenching loss, Houston’s journey fueled their drive for another shot at the title.
The Cougars’ plan for victory in the championship depends heavily on point guard Emanuel Sharp returning from his absence. Last season, he averaged 12.6 points per game as the second-highest scorer. Emanuel Sharp’s combination of team leadership and solid defense while averaging 1.4 steals and crucial shots in big games will be vital to the Brigham Young University Cougars’ championship chances.
Houston has also bolstered its roster by adding two transfer portal players: senior forward Kalifa Sakho and junior guard Pop Isaacs. Sakho, a 6-foot-8 forward with a 7’4” wingspan, averaged 7.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game at Sam Houston State.
His defensive skills help address the departures of frontcourt players J’Wan Roberts and Ja’Vier Francis. Isaacs, a dynamic guard from Creighton, is expected to provide scoring versatility and strengthen the backcourt depth.
Despite challenges, including a currently overfull roster and the departure of key reserve Terrance Arceneaux, Houston’s balance of experienced returnees and new talent positions them for another deep run.
KEEP READING: What Emanuel Sharp’s Return Means for Houston’s 2025-26 National Championship Aspirations
The experts have positioned Houston in the elite tier of 2025-26 teams alongside new additions of talented recruits Chris Cenac Jr., Isiah Harwell, and Kingston Flemings to the roster. The leadership of Houston comes from head coach Kelvin Sampson who guides the team in their pursuit of the national championship title.
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