Houston Cougars guard Ramon Walker Jr. (3) is emotional as he walks off the court after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer, right, gets a high-five from guard Ryan Elvin, left, during the second half of a basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) shoots over Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) dunks the ball during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) makes a pass to forward Ja'Vier Francis between Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) and forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) shoots over Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) blocks a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) alongside forward J'Wan Roberts (13) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) goes after a loose ball alongside Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) and guard L.J. Cryer (4) pressure a loose ball against Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) alongside Houston Cougars forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) is helped up by Texas A&M Aggies guard Jace Carter (0) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) grabs a rebound against Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) pressures Texas A&M Aggies guard Jace Carter (0) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) draws a foul against Texas A&M Aggies guard Jace Carter (0) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston fans cheer during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) dives on a loose ball in front of Texas A&M Aggies guards Jace Carter (0) and Tyrece Radford (23) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) goes up for a shot against Texas A&M Aggies guard Jace Carter (0) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) drives to the basket during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) is pressured by Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Ramon Walker Jr. (3) reacts after a basket during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston players are seen with their arms linked during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) is fouled by Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston fans are seen during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) dunks the ball during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) shoots during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Ramon Walker Jr. (3) defends against Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) shoots in front of Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) reacts after being called for a foul against Texas A&M Aggies guard Wade Taylor IV (4) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) grabs a rebound in front of Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) pressures a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson reacts during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) shoots over Texas A&M Aggies forward Wildens Leveque (10) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies guard Wade Taylor IV (4) strips the ball from Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) grabs a rebound during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) is seen after hitting a shot during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston fans cheer during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) is seen after hitting a shot during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Buzz Williams reacts during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) drives against Texas A&M Aggies forward Henry Coleman III (15) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) shoots over Texas A&M Aggies forward Wildens Leveque (10) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) tips a rebound to himself against Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) pressures a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Wade Taylor IV (4) alongside guard L.J. Cryer (4) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) goes up for a rebound against Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) and forward Henry Coleman III (15) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) pressures a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Wade Taylor IV (4) alongside guard L.J. Cryer (4) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) goes up for a rebound against Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) and forward Henry Coleman III (15) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) motions to teammates during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) goes up between Texas A&M Aggies guards Wade Taylor IV (4) and Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) goes up against Texas A&M Aggies forward Solomon Washington (13) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) goes up against Texas A&M Aggies forward Solomon Washington (13) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson instructs players during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) makes a pass around Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) shoots over Texas A&M Aggies forward Henry Coleman III (15) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) shoots under pressure during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) makes a pass around Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) blocks a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson, right, talks with guard Jamal Shead, center, during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) blocks a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Mylik Wilson (8) defends Texas A&M Aggies forward Solomon Washington (13) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) is pressured by Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) alongside forward J'Wan Roberts (13) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M head coach Buzz Williams instructs players during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) pressures a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) alongside guard L.J. Cryer (4) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) leaps past Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) shoots a 3-pointer during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) pressures a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) defends Texas A&M Aggies guard Wade Taylor IV (4) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M players gather during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson talks with players on the bench during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) is fouled by Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) is fouled by Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
University of Houston alum and broadcasting legend Jim Nantz, right, is seen before a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
University of Houston alum and broadcasting legend Jim Nantz, right, is seen before a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston’s mascot Shasta is seen before a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston cheerleaders are seen before a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) pressures a shot by Texas A&M Aggies guard Wade Taylor IV (4) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) shoots a 3-pointer over Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) pressures Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) drives past Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) dives after a loose ball in front of Houston Cougars guards Emanuel Sharp (21) and L.J. Cryer (4) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) is fouled by Texas A&M Aggies guard Tyrece Radford (23) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) has the ball knocked away by Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) gabs the ball in front of Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) goes up against Texas A&M Aggies guard Wade Taylor IV (4) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) drives against Texas A&M Aggies guard Jace Carter (0) during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) makes a pass to forward Ja'Vier Francis (5) between Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) and forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston cheerleaders pump up the crowd during the first half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
UH's Jamal Shead (1) gets a high-five from Ja'Vier Francis (5) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) reacts after hitting 3-pointer during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson, center, talks with guard Jamal Shead, right, during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) is fouled by Texas A&M Aggies guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) is stripped of the ball by Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) in front of guard Wade Taylor IV (4) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Mylik Wilson (8) is fouled by Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
University of Houston alum and broadcasting legend Jim Nantz gives a fist-pump after Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp makes a free throw during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M cheerleaders perform during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) is stripped of the ball by Texas A&M Aggies forward Solomon Washington (13) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson reacts to a foul call during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) is fouled as he is pressured by Texas A&M Aggies forward Solomon Washington (13) and guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) is fouled as he is pressured by Texas A&M Aggies forward Solomon Washington (13) and guard Manny Obaseki (35) during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson reacts after a call during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard L.J. Cryer (4) reacts after he is called for a foul during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) shoots over Texas A&M Aggies guard Wade Taylor IV (4) during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) gets a high-five from guard Ryan Elvin (20) after fouling out during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) reacts after fouling out during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) gets a high-five from guard Ramon Walker Jr. (3) in front of guard Emanuel Sharp during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) climbs back over a table during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) reacts after fouling out during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) is seen during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M head coach Buzz Williams claps during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guards Emanuel Sharp, Jamal Shead, Mylik Wilson (8) and Ramon Walker Jr. (3) walk back to the bench after Texas A&M forward Andersson Garcia made a 3-pointer to take the game 86-86 at the buzzer to end the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies players rush forward Andersson Garcia after his 3-pointer at the buzzer tied Houston 86-86 and forced overtime in the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies players rush forward Andersson Garcia after his 3-pointer at the buzzer tied Houston 86-86 and forced overtime in the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Mylik Wilson (8) reacts after Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer to tie Houston 86-86 and force overtime in the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M Aggies forward Andersson Garcia (11) reacts after hitting a buzzer-beating 3-pointer to tie Houston 86-86 in regulation during the second half of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston players gather around guard Ryan Elvin, right, after being fouled during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Ryan Elvin (20) is fouled during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead, second from right, is seen on the sideline during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars celebrate the team's 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars celebrate the team's 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) reacts after the team's 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Texas A&M head coach Buzz Williams claps during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars celebrate the team's 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Ramon Walker Jr. (3) celebrates after the team's 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) reacts after the team's 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead, left, gets a fist-bump from a Texas A&M fan after Houston’s 100-95 overtime win over the Aggies during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp gets a hug from his mother, Justine Ellison Sharp, after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) celebrates after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp gets a hug from his mother, Justine Ellison Sharp, after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Ramon Walker Jr. (3) is emotional as he walks off the court after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) celebrates after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) gets high-fives from spectators after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) reacts after the team's 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Ramon Walker Jr. (3) celebrates after the team's 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Mylik Wilson (8) shoots during overtime of a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) is seen after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) is seen after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Houston’s mascot Shasta is seen after the team’s 100-95 overtime win against Texas A&M during a college basketball game in the second round of the men's NCAA Tournament at FedExForum on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Madness of March landed full force on the University of Houston Sunday night.
All of the tension, all the joy, and after one of the most dramatic shots in the school’s tournament history, it appeared all of the pain.
I swear I saw the Ghost of Collapses Past eating a barbecue sandwich at the FedExForum.
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But a gut-wrenching, buzzer-beating 3-pointer by Texas A&M’s Andersson Garcia simply sent the game into overtime. The Cougars were stunned, but they didn’t fall to the floor in defeat.
Texas A&M head coach Buzz Williams didn’t get to run around the court like Jim Valvano.
There were an extra five minutes of basketball left to be played.
Still, the door was opened for what would have been an epic UH breakdown, one of the worst in the school’s NCAA Tournament history.
Under the circumstances — having blown a 10-point lead in the final minute and a half of regulation, and playing with three starters already fouled out and the other two just one foul away from disqualification — most teams would have indeed folded.
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Kelvin Sampson’s Cougars aren’t made that way. They are of tougher stuff than most.
When it was over, Sampson, not Williams, was the one who celebrated.
The 68-year-old coach moved quickly toward his school’s cheering section and emphatically punched the air several times.
Sampson wasn’t hitting anything. He didn’t have to. The work was already done.
The No. 1-seeded Cougars had beaten down adversity, fought off the officials, and, finally, knocked out the Aggies 100-95 in an instant classic.
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“We just found a way,” Sampson said. “All these years I’ve been doing this stuff, I don’t know if there’s a more satisfying win than tonight. Just can’t tell you how proud I am of this group. Just really, really proud of this team.”
Finishing the game with just one starter on the court, the Cougars advanced to the Sweet 16 for the fifth straight year, where they will face fourth-seeded Duke in Dallas on Friday. Houston and Duke have never met in men’s basketball.
Jim Nantz, the CBS announcer and UH graduate, said this win might have been the greatest in school history.
“It was epic,” Nantz said.
Like Nantz, as the Aggies climbed back into the game, I had thoughts of Albuquerque and Lorenzo Charles, and the Cougars blowing a game everyone thought they would win.
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But holding on to a victory with Sampson having to cobble together lineups with all of his best players saddled with foul trouble, turned something ugly into something special.
“That’s a perfect record for Houston, had four players foul out and still find a way to win,” Sampson said. “Regardless of who we put on the floor tonight, our kids didn’t play together, they played for each other. And there’s a big difference in that. A lot of teams play together.”
Four of UH’s five starters scored in double figures, with Emanuel Sharp leading the way with 30 points and five fouls. Jamal Shead added 21 points and five fouls. L.J. Cryer chipped in 20 points and five fouls. And J’Wan Roberts contributed 13 points, a team-high eight rebounds and five fouls.
See the trend?
The Aggies attempted 45 free throws, but will certainly regret the 16 misses that prevented them from pulling off the upset. The record for free throws against the Cougars in the NCAA Tournament is held by SMU, which had 46 in 1956.
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A&M, which led the country in offensive rebounding by a wide margin, stayed in the game with its attack of the glass. Still, the Aggies didn’t take full advantage of their board work, scoring just 26 points on 26 offensive rebounds.
This was a game that either team could have won and each can say they should have won without the overtime period when UH outscored A&M, 14-9.
UH had a 10-point lead with 1:24 remaining, but was up by just three with 10 seconds left.
The Aggies got the ball to their leading scorer, Wade Taylor IV, who launched a wild 3-point attempt that was off target. He chased down the rebound and misfired again.
Mylik Wilson grabbed the rebound for the Cougars and the game should have been over. But inexplicably the referees called a jump ball.
In a night of curious calls, that one was egregious.
It gave the Aggies one final opportunity with 1.2 seconds left.
Garcia, who had made just eight 3-pointers all season, caught the ball at the top of the key and drained the shot to tie the game 86-all.
While the Aggies celebrated the spectacular comeback, the Cougars were deflated, not defeated.
The Cougars called on a ghost of the past all right. Earlier this season, they gave up a 15-point second-half lead at Baylor, then went on to win in overtime.
“We had something to draw from, and our kids are tough, man,” Sampson said. “We’ve got tough kids, and in that moment we needed belief and we needed toughness.”
Sampson’s squad has an abundance of both.
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