The 2024-25 college basketball season has been dominated by the SEC, with remarkable achievements including 14 NCAA tournament bids and four teams in regional finals. However, in a surprising Elite Eight matchup, the University of Houston asserted the Big 12's prowess by decisively defeating Tennessee 69-50. Houston's strong defensive strategy overwhelmed Tennessee's offense, who struggled with shooting accuracy, culminating in an impressive performance that defied the SEC’s recent dominance. The Cougars, under Kelvin Sampson, are poised for further success as they head to the Final Four to face No. 1 Duke.
In a tournament where SEC teams won often by swallowing teams whole with athleticism, depth and an abundance of talent, Houston flipped the script.
Kelvin Sampson's Cougars have been the Big 12's most dominant program since entering the league two years ago.
Tennessee missed its first 14 3-pointers, trailed by as many as 22 in the first half and looked at times like a directional school buy game opponent.
Any embers of life Tennessee showed the second half were extinguished by Emanuel Sharp, who hit a pair of second-half three pointers and finished with 16 points.
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