Kelvin Sampson’s time with Houston has been marked by consistent success, including seven NCAA Tournament appearances in his 11-year tenure, five consecutive appearances, and three Elite Eight appearances.
Although their 24/25 season ended in a heartbreaking loss to Florida in the national championship game, the Cougars are already back to work, determined to prove to everyone that their run to the championship game this year wasn’t a fluke or one-off.
What Should We Expect From the Cougars in the 25/26 Season?
In two seasons in the Big 12 Conference, Houston had a dominant 34-4 record in regular-season conference play, leading to back-to-back regular-season titles. In the past three years, they’ve also earned a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. The key to maintaining this form is consistency.
On 24/25, Houston had 35 wins, including an NCAA tournament run. That is the program’s best record. Last season was Houston’s healthiest in recent years in terms of player fitness. Replicating this kind of success will be hugely dependent on the fitness and availability of the roster.
In the last two seasons, Houston ranked in the top two nationally in KenPom’s defensive rating. Its offensive rating improved significantly, jumping seven spots from 2023-24 to finish 12th in 2024-25, showing growth but also room for further development.
Houston lost guard Mylik Wilson, forwarding J’Wan Roberts, guard L.J. Cryer, and forwarding Ja’Vier Francis ahead of the new season as they have all graduated. Still, there’s no cause for alarm as Sampson has a lot of experience, and he’s known for maximizing opportunities in the transfer portal.
Barely a day after losing the championship game, Houston secured the commitment of Pop Isaacs, a junior guard from Creighton. Sam Houston senior forward Kalifa Sakho also announced his commitment to Houston on April 4.
The 25/26 campaign represents the highest-rated recruiting class in Houston’s history. 247Sports ranks them No. 2 nationally. The class includes center Chris Cenac, who is already projected to be a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA draft and the highest-ranked recruit in the program’s modern era. They have also recruited guards Kingston Fleming from San Antonio Brennan High School and Isiah Harwell.
KEEP READING: What Emanuel Sharp’s Return Means for Houston’s 2025-26 National Championship Aspirations
Sampson’s current contract, which pays him $4.7 million annually, has two seasons left. The deal includes a succession clause that appoints his son, assistant coach Kellen Sampson, to a $2 million-per-year position as the program’s next head coach. The Sampson era at Houston is set to continue for a while.
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