NCAA Basketball: Duke, Michigan State fall in latest top 25 power ranking
By Joey Loose
5. Houston (2-0)
The conference is different, a few of the starters are different, but a lot remains the same for Houston. Now members of the Big 12, the Cougars replaced a few important pieces in the offseason, but still expect big things from Jamal Shead and J’Wan Roberts and company this upcoming season, especially with the addition of former Baylor guard LJ Cryer.
Everything went perfect on opening night as Houston pulled away early for an 84-31 win over Louisiana-Monroe. Emanuel Sharp had 20 points to lead the Cougars while newcomer Damian Dunn added 18 off the bench. Saturday was another blowout, albeit a bit closer, as Houston won 82-50 against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Four of the five starters had at least 11 points, led by J’Wan Roberts’ 17-point, 9-rebound effort for a 2-0 start to the season.
There’s a lot to like about the way Houston plays basketball, even though these were clearly two very inferior opponents. The nonconference schedule isn’t exactly filled with opportunities, though this first season in the Big 12 might be an adjustment for a Cougars squad that has dominated the AAC in recent years. For now, the focus turns towards Stetson and Towson for this upcoming week.