Houston Cougars forward J’Wan Roberts is battling a sprained right ankle just as his team gears up for the NCAA Tournament. His availability remains a major question mark, especially given Houston’s reliance on his presence in the defense lines.
With the Cougars set to face SIU Edwardsville in the first round, fans and analysts alike are eager for updates on Roberts’ condition.
Will J’Wan Roberts Be Ready for the NCAA Tournament?
Roberts injured his ankle early in the second half of Houston’s Big 12 quarterfinal game against Colorado. He missed the final two games of the tournament, including the championship victory over Arizona.
Without him, the Cougars managed to secure the title, but his absence was felt, especially in the frontcourt.
However, the clouds seem to be moving from the horizon as Roberts himself says he’ll be ready. Speaking at Houston’s Selection Sunday watch party, the All-Big 12 first-team forward shared that his ankle has improved thanks to intensive treatment.
“I’ve done a lot of treatment, a lot of cold tubs. It feels a lot better,” Roberts said. “I’m ready right now.” He was scheduled for an individual workout on Monday, which played a significant role in determining his condition for continuing his season.
“I’m ready right now,” said #Houston big man J’wan Roberts of playing in the NCAA Tournament.
“I’ll be 100% ready for Thursday.”@KHOU pic.twitter.com/DirE1p801K— Jason Bristol (@JBristolKHOU) March 17, 2025
However, despite Roberts’ confidence, Houston’s head coach Kelvin Sampson is being cautious. NCAA insider Jon Rothstein reported that Roberts is still being evaluated daily. His status remains uncertain, and Sampson will make the final decision closer to game time.
Roberts is a crucial piece of Houston’s defensive identity. Averaging 10.8 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, he brings experience and toughness to a Cougars squad that lacks consistent depth at center.
With potential matchups against teams like Gonzaga looming, Houston will need Roberts’ interior defense against bigger, physical opponents.
Houston, the No. 1 seed in the Midwest Region, will tip off against No. 16 seed SIU Edwardsville at 1 p.m. ET Thursday in Wichita, Kansas.
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If Roberts can’t play, the Cougars will lean heavily on their bench, particularly Joseph Tugler, who has shown bright flashes of potential but has been inconsistent at times.
As of now, Roberts remains optimistic, but his official status will likely come down to a game-day decision. As Houston fans, we will be watching closely, hoping their defensive anchor is ready to take the floor when the tournament begins.
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