The University of Houston men’s basketball program, coming from a heartbreaking loss to Florida in the 2025 NCAA National Championship, is now making waves in boosting its roster. Under the leadership of head coach Kelvin Sampson, the Cougars have secured the No. 1 recruiting class for the coming season, headlined by three five-star prospects: Chris Cenac Jr., Isiah Harwell, and Kingston Flemings, alongside three-star guard Bryce Jackson.
This portrays Houston’s intent not only to return to the national stage but also to dominate it and fasten its status as a powerhouse in the Big 12 Conference and beyond.
Sampson, at 69, has transformed Houston into a home for elite high school talents, a feat that looked unachievable when he took the helm in 2024.
He has projected the program to new heights by blending brave, defense-first basketball with a modern recruiting approach. Despite the recent defeat in the championship, the Cougars are confident that they can reload with a roster that could rival any in the country.
A Masterclass Recruit
Chris Cenac Jr., a 6’10” center, is the crown jewel of Houston’s 2025 class, who ranks as the No. 1 center in the nation. Cenac, a consensus five-star recruit, pledged to Houston in November 2024, becoming the highest-ranked recruit in the program’s modern era. With a 7’4” wingspan, Cenac is a defensive force, capable of altering shots and securing deflections.
Following Shelton Henderson’s decommitment, Houston has the No. 1 recruiting class in 2025. 🥇
5🌟 Chris Cenac Jr.
5🌟 Isiah Harwell
5🌟 Kingston Flemings
3🌟 Bryce Jackson pic.twitter.com/HESSRH1HDm— College Basketball Report (@CBKReport) April 18, 2025
Isiah Harwell, a 6’6” guard from Pocatello, Idaho, is another player who joined the Cenac. He also has a five-star rating across major recruiting platforms. Ranked No. 14 in the ESPN 100, He is a dynamic scorer and rebounder, averaging 18 points and eight rebounds as a freshman at Century High School. His size and versatility make him an excellent fit for Sampson’s strategy, which demands physicality and multi-positional play.
Another five-star addition is Kingston Fleming, a point guard from William J. Brennan High School in San Antonio. Flemings, ranked No. 21 in the ESPN 100, comes with elite playmaking and speed to the Cougars’ backcourt. His ability to mastermind the offense and push the tempo works perfectly with Sampson’s up-tempo style.
The class is completed by Bryce Jackson, a three-star guard from Shadow Creek High School in Pearland, Texas, who adds depth and shooting to the roster.
Building on a Foundation of Excellence
Sampson’s impact at Houston goes far beyond recruiting.
KEEP READING: Pop Isaacs Commits to Houston: Creighton Transfer Joins Kelvin Sampson’s Squad
Since taking over the helm, he has led the Cougars to six back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Final Four run in 2021 and the 2025 national championship game.
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