It really looked like the Houston Cougars were down and out in their Final Four matchup against the Duke Blue Devils. But they battled back and pulled off one of the most impressive comebacks in NCAA history.
The Cougars are headed to the NCAA Finals. Make no mistake — it was a full team effort, with several players standing out as potential NBA prospects.
5 Houston Cougars Who May Have Caught the NBA’s Eye During Duke Win
L.J. Cryer
L.J. Cryer stepped up as Houston’s leading scorer with 26 points. That alone might not raise eyebrows, but his efficiency on college basketball’s biggest stage definitely will.
He shot 8-for-14 from the field and knocked down six threes. He also came through in the clutch, hitting two huge free throws to give Houston a three-point lead in the closing seconds. Cryer might not be a top name in this year’s class, but he could’ve just earned himself a training camp invite.
Joseph Tugler
The box score gives Joseph Tugler some credit, but not enough. He had five offensive boards and four blocks, but his defensive presence was even more important. He played a key role in stopping Duke’s high-powered offense when it mattered most.
His biggest play came in crunch time — a steal that led to a three-pointer and helped shift the momentum. Tugler’s instincts and wingspan make him the type of prospect playoff teams like to take a chance on.
J’Wan Roberts
J’Wan Roberts didn’t have a flashy game, but he finished with a double-double — 11 points and 12 rebounds. More importantly, he sank the go-ahead free throws in the final seconds to put Houston ahead for good.
Those free throws stood out even more considering Roberts isn’t known for his shooting. He also led the team with five assists, showing just how much he contributed across the board.
Emanuel Sharp
Emmanuel Sharp was the team’s second-highest scorer with 16 points. His shooting — 4-for-13 from the field — wasn’t great, but what mattered was when he scored.
He put up nine of his 16 points in the final two minutes, fueling Houston’s comeback. He started what his teammates finished, and without his spark, they wouldn’t have been in position to win. That kind of grit might catch some attention from NBA scouts.
Milos Uzan
Uzan didn’t have a standout night after building some buzz during the Sweet 16. He finished with seven points, three rebounds, and two assists. Still, the Cougars leaned on him for 28 minutes.
He’s had better games earlier in the tournament, but Uzan didn’t hurt Houston in this one — and his earlier performances may still keep him on teams’ radars.
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
