5. Houston (18-2)
A few weeks ago Houston got a taste of what life will be like in the Big 12. The Cougars have been one of the best programs in the entire nation in recent years, though that success came with a slew of AAC titles. While things are largely different in the Big 12, this Houston team is still marching onwards in the midst of another fantastic and successful season under Kelvin Sampson.
First, the Cougars got perhaps their most impressive conference win to date, winning 75-68 at BYU to get a solid ranked win on the road. LJ Cryer led the charge with 23 points while Jamal Shead added 16 in a good performance from the backcourt. Houston’s performance on Saturday was even greater, with a 74-52 home victory over Kansas State. The Cougars had yet another great defensive effort as a team and were led by Shead’s 17-point outing.
Now winners of four straight games, Houston is wasting no time establishing themselves as a team to beat in their new league, sitting pretty at 5-2. We’ve talked all season about this elite defense but the offense has played some efficient basketball as well. The Cougars have been one of the most consistent teams this season but face another very difficult challenge, with road tests at Texas and Kansas in the next seven days.