The Houston Cougars are back in the national spotlight, but this time, the stakes are even higher. With a key piece returning to the backcourt, anticipation is building in Houston—and across college basketball. Could this be the year the Cougars finally reach the summit?
Uzan’s Decision: A Game-Changer for Houston’s Hopes
Milos Uzan’s announcement to withdraw from the NBA Draft and return for his senior season has sent shockwaves through the NCAA landscape, instantly elevating Houston’s status as a national title contender.
As one analyst put it on “The Field of 68″ podcast, “Houston to me is the number one preseason number one team in the country with the return of Uzan.”
Uzan’s impact last season was undeniable: he averaged 11.4 points, 4.3 assists, and shot an impressive 42.8% from three-point range, while starting all 40 games and leading Houston to the national championship game.
His decision not only stabilizes the backcourt but also allows head coach Kelvin Sampson to maintain a core group of experienced leaders, including Emanuel Sharp and Joseph Tugler.
The trio’s chemistry was a major factor in Houston’s run to the title game, and their return gives the Cougars a blend of scoring, defense, and veteran savvy that few teams can match.
As noted in the FIELD OF 68 discussion, “Uzan is gonna have to carry a pretty heavy load offensively for them because that’s part of the reason why he’s coming back—he can kind of go and show what he can be.”
Reloaded Roster and Freshman Firepower
Houston’s roster is not just about returning stars. The Cougars have added a talented freshman class, including guards Isaiah Harwell and Kingston Fleming, and big man Chris Cenac Jr., who are expected to make immediate contributions.
While there’s optimism about the newcomers, one analyst cautioned, “I’m not 100% sold on them stepping in and immediately being guys that can go get you double figures right.”
This puts even more emphasis on Uzan’s leadership and playmaking ability, especially with the departure of last season’s top scorer, L.J. Cryer.
Coach Sampson’s teams are known for their elite defense and disciplined play, and with Uzan at the helm, Houston is poised to maintain its identity while integrating new talent. The combination of experienced veterans and high-upside freshmen makes the Cougars one of the deepest and most versatile squads in the nation.
As per analysis, “Coach Sampson’s return of his point guard makes Houston one of the top teams in the nation heading into next year and a preseason favorite to return to the Final Four and cut down the nets in April”.
Title or Bust: Can Houston Reach the Top?
After falling just short in last year’s national championship, the Cougars are hungry for redemption. The return of Uzan has fueled talk of a preseason No. 1 ranking, with many experts placing Houston at the very top of their lists.
Yet, as the “Field of 68” panel cautioned, “Calling anybody the clear favorite or the front runner right now is insane… there are some really, really good teams.”
Purdue, among others, will provide stiff competition, and the margin between the top contenders is razor-thin.
Still, with Uzan’s steady hand, a battle-tested core, and a wave of promising newcomers, Houston has all the ingredients to make another deep tournament run.
The question now isn’t if the Cougars can contend—it’s whether they can finish the job and claim the program’s first national title.
KEEP READING: Houston Basketball Coaching Staff: Who Leads the Cougars Alongside Kelvin Sampson?
With Milos Uzan’s return, Houston’s backcourt is reloaded and expectations are sky-high. The Cougars are primed for another run at glory—this time, with their eyes firmly set on the No. 1 spot and the ultimate prize.
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