HOUSTON (AP) – The University of Houston Men’s Basketball team jumped out to an early lead, scoring 11 of the first 13 points of the game, and maintained control throughout, ultimately securing a decisive 79-64 victory over the 13th-ranked Texas A&M Aggies in a charity exhibition held at Fertitta Center on Sunday afternoon.
Graduate guard LJ Cryer played a pivotal role in the Cougars’ success, leading the scoreboard with 18 points, showcasing his sharpshooting skills with six three-pointers off 12 attempts. Meanwhile, graduate forward J’Wan Roberts delivered a strong all-around performance, rounding out his stat line with 10 points, eight rebounds, three steals, four blocks, and notably, he committed zero turnovers in over 26 minutes on the court.
Despite an early challenge from Texas A&M, who narrowed the gap to 13-12 with a three-pointer from guard Wade Taylor IV, Houston quickly responded by scoring the next eight points, asserting their dominance and maintaining at least a six-point lead for the remainder of the matchup.
The Cougars showcased their rebounding prowess, outpacing Texas A&M 40-29, highlighted by an impressive performance from sophomore forward Joseph Tugler, who secured eight offensive rebounds. Additionally, Houston’s defense was relentless, forcing 16 turnovers from the Aggies and converting those mistakes into 22 points on the other end of the court.
A total of seven Houston players contributed from beyond the arc, as the team collectively shot 14-of-31 from three-point range, emphasizing their perimeter shooting strength.
Sophomore forward Terrance Arceneaux made a significant return to the lineup after enduring a long recovery from an Achilles tendon injury sustained last December against Texas A&M. He contributed 10 points, including two three-pointers, while also adding three rebounds, two assists, and two steals.
Freshman guard Mercy Miller marked his collegiate debut with an impressive 11 points, shooting 5-of-7 from the field, while junior point guard Milos Uzan, who recently came over from Oklahoma, contributed five points, four rebounds, and two assists in his first game donning the Cougar uniform.
This victory marked Houston’s third consecutive triumph over Texas A&M, continuing their recent dominance over the Aggies. In previous encounters, they notched a hard-fought 70-66 win at the Toyota Center during The Halal Guys Showcase, where guard Emanuel Sharp was a standout performer with 21 points and six rebounds. Additionally, in an exhilarating NCAA Tournament Round of 32 clash, they triumphed 100-95 in overtime, propelled by Sharp’s career-high 30 points and seven three-pointers, allowing Houston to advance to the Sweet 16 for the fifth straight season.
BENEFITING HURRICANE BERYL RELIEF
Proceeds from the game were generously directed toward the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance Hurricane Beryl Recovery Fund, aimed at aiding individuals affected by the recent storm, highlighting the community spirit that surrounds the team.
The Greater Houston Disaster Alliance is a collaborative effort between the Greater Houston Community Foundation and the United Way of Greater Houston, both recognized as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping the region recover.
UP NEXT
Following this charitable exhibition, the Cougars are set to kick off their regular season with a matchup against Jackson State at 7 p.m. on Monday at Fertitta Center, marking the beginning of their competitive journey for the season.
On November 9, they will face off against the #11/11 Auburn in the Mattress Firm Battleground 2k24, an anticipated event inside the Toyota Center. The Cougars will participate as the second game of a doubleheader, with the first game featuring Rice against Florida State at 6 p.m.
Fans eager to witness this highly-anticipated doubleheader can purchase tickets for the Mattress Firm Battleground 2k24 by clicking here.
SUPPORT YOUR COOGS
To enhance the success of the Houston Men’s Basketball team, fans are encouraged to make a direct impact by supporting Linking Coogs – the university’s NIL collective. Additionally, they can bolster the program by joining the 50-50 Club, which offers essential financial assistance for needs beyond the team’s operating budget.
Members of the 50-50 Club will enjoy exclusive benefits, including embroidered Jordan Brand team apparel, invitations to special events, regular updates regarding the program, and many other perks.
STAY CONNECTED
Fans can stay updated by following @UHCougarMBK on X, formerly known as Twitter, and can keep up with the latest news by clicking LIKE on the team’s Facebook page at UHCougarMBK or by visiting the team’s Instagram page at UHCougarMBK.
**Interview with LJ Cryer: Houston Cougars Star Guard**
*Interviewer:* LJ, first off, congratulations on the team’s impressive victory over Texas A&M! You led the game with 18 points and showcased some incredible shooting from beyond the arc. How did it feel to not only contribute personally but also to support a great cause with this charity exhibition?
*LJ Cryer:* Thank you! It definitely felt amazing to play well, but what means even more is knowing that we’re helping others through this game. Hurricane Beryl had such a huge impact on our community, so being able to raise funds for those affected made every effort on that court worthwhile.
*Interviewer:* You got off to a fast start, scoring 11 of the first 13 points. How important is that quick momentum to set the tone for the game right from the beginning?
*LJ Cryer:* Starting strong is always our goal. It helps build our confidence and sets a defensive tone that’s hard for teams to handle. When we can come out of the gate and get those early points, it creates pressure for the opponent, making it easier for us to control the pace of the game.
*Interviewer:* J’Wan Roberts had a fantastic all-around game with no turnovers in over 26 minutes. How does having players like him help the team’s overall performance?
*LJ Cryer:* J’Wan is such an asset. He does the little things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet, like his defense and hustle. With him on the court, we can trust that we’ll have solid possession and strong plays whenever he’s involved.
*Interviewer:* The team showed off impressive rebounding and defense, forcing 16 turnovers. How critical do you think those aspects are as the season progresses?
*LJ Cryer:* Those elements are crucial; they can really define a team’s success. If we can keep that defensive intensity and control the boards, it opens up so many opportunities for our offense. It’s all about getting those second-chance points and converting turnovers into quick scores.
*Interviewer:* Looking ahead, you have the regular season starting off against Jackson State soon. What are some areas you’re focusing on improving before then?
*LJ Cryer:* Every game is a learning opportunity. We’ll focus on tightening our defense even further and continue building our chemistry on offense. Plus, it’s important to maintain that balance of aggressive play while taking care of the ball.
*Interviewer:* Lastly, with the next matchup against #11 Auburn on the horizon, what’s the mindset of the team as you move into these competitive games?
*LJ Cryer:* We’re excited! Every game is an opportunity to prove ourselves, especially against strong teams like Auburn. We have to prepare mentally and physically, and approach each game with the confidence that we can compete at a high level.
*Interviewer:* Fantastic insights, LJ! Good luck this season, and thanks for taking the time to speak with us.
*LJ Cryer:* Thank you! I appreciate it!
*LJ Cryer:* Rebounding and defense are crucial for us. If we can control the boards and apply pressure on defense, it turns into transition opportunities and easy baskets. That’s how we can create a big lead and maintain it throughout the game. We emphasize those aspects in practice, knowing that they can be the difference-makers in tight games.
*Interviewer:* You mentioned earlier how it felt to play for a good cause. How important is it for the team to engage with the community in this way?
*LJ Cryer:* It’s really important. Basketball is great and all, but giving back and being part of the community makes it even more meaningful. We love our fans, and when we can do something to help those in need, it strengthens that bond. Seeing support for Hurricane Beryl relief from our community is truly inspiring.
*Interviewer:* Looking ahead, you have the regular season beginning with a matchup against Jackson State. How are you feeling about starting the competitive journey?
*LJ Cryer:* We’re really excited! This exhibition has shown us where we stand, but the real test begins now. We’re ready to take everything we’ve learned and apply it. We want to keep building on this momentum and show everyone what the Cougars are capable of this season!
*Interviewer:* Best of luck in the season, LJ! Thank you for taking the time to chat with us.
*LJ Cryer:* Thanks for having me! Go Cougars!
