HOUSTON – The highly anticipated clash between two top-tier collegiate basketball programs unfolds this Saturday at 8:30 p.m., as the #4/4 University of Houston Men’s Basketball team squares off against #11/11 Auburn. The matchup will be the final game of the Mattress Firm Battleground 2k24, hosted at the iconic Toyota Center in Houston.
Houston enters this pivotal matchup on the heels of an impressive 97-40 victory against Jackson State. The Cougars put forth an offensive display that saw them shoot a remarkable 58.2 percent from the field, sinking 12 of 20 attempts from beyond the arc. Houston’s defense was equally formidable, forcing 21 turnovers and limiting Jackson State to just 27.7 percent shooting.
This dominant performance marked the Cougars’ second-largest season-opening win in the school’s storied history, surpassed only by a staggering 69-point victory against Florida Tech back in November 2005.
Graduate All-American guard LJ Cryer was a standout, leading the scoring with 16 points, including four 3-pointers. Additionally, junior point guard Milos Uzan made a significant impact in his Houston debut, falling just two assists shy of a triple-double with eight points, seven rebounds, and a game-high 10 assists.
J’Wan Roberts, a graduate forward, contributed 14 points on an efficient 6-of-8 shooting, alongside six rebounds, establishing himself as a key player in the win. With this latest victory, Roberts has broken a tie with All-American point guard Jamal Shead to become the most successful student-athlete in Fertitta Center history, boasting an impressive 63-3 record at home.
BUY 2024-25 TICKETS
Fans eager to attend the event can secure their tickets to the Mattress Firm Battleground 2k24 by clicking here. The thrilling doubleheader will kick off with Rice taking on Florida State at 6 p.m. prior to the Houston versus Auburn clash.
Non-season ticket holders interested in joining the excitement can sign up for the Season Ticket Wait List by clicking here.
HOUSTON in TOYOTA CENTER HISTORY
Saturday’s meeting will mark Houston’s third competition in the Toyota Center, which opened its doors in 2003. It will also signify the second consecutive season Houston has played in this prominent venue. Last season, the Cougars secured a narrow 70-66 victory over Texas A&M during The Halal Guys Showcase. Their inaugural game at Toyota Center yielded a tightly contested 54-52 win against Rice back in December 2013.
TUNE IN
Fans can catch all the action from Saturday’s game on ESPN+, with Rich Hollenberg and Fran Fraschilla bringing you the live commentary. For radio listeners, the game will air on 950 AM KPRC and via the Varsity Network app, beginning with the pregame show at approximately 8:15 p.m. Additionally, fans can follow the live stats through StatBroadcast.com.
ABOUT AUBURN
The Auburn Tigers, currently ranked #11, come into Saturday’s showdown with a 1-0 record following a dominant 94-43 win over Vermont in their season opener. Miles Kelly was a key contributor, scoring 21 points and knocking down seven 3-pointers.
Auburn concluded the previous season with a solid 27-8 overall record, showcasing their competitiveness in the SEC, where they tied for second place alongside Kentucky, Alabama, and South Carolina. Head Coach Bruce Pearl, now in his 11th season at Auburn, holds an impressive 201-119 record with the program and a remarkable overall coaching record of 663-264.
SERIES HISTORY vs. AUBURN
In the historical rivalry, Houston leads the series against Auburn with a commanding 7-1 record. The Cougars have achieved victory in each of the past six matchups, including their most recent contest, an 81-64 triumph during the NCAA Tournament’s Midwest Region Round of 32 earlier this year.
UP NEXT
Following their clash with Auburn, the Cougars are set to face Louisiana at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13, inside Fertitta Center. Coverage will be available on ESPN+. Houston’s busy schedule continues as they host Hofstra at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22, which will also be broadcasted on ESPN+.
SUPPORT YOUR COOGS
Supporters of Houston Men’s Basketball can positively influence the team’s success by contributing to Linking Coogs, the university’s NIL collective. Additionally, fans are encouraged to join the 50-50 Club, which provides crucial financial support for the program’s needs beyond its operating budget.
Members of the 50-50 Club receive exclusive perks, including embroidered Jordan Brand team apparel, invitations to special events, and regular updates surrounding the program.
STAY CONNECTED
For those seeking to stay informed, follow @UHCougarMBK on X, formerly Twitter, or visit the team’s Facebook page at UHCougarMBK to catch up on the latest news, and don’t forget to check their Instagram account at UHCougarMBK.
– UHCougars.com –
**Interview with Basketball Analyst, Michael Thompson**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Michael! We’re gearing up for a thrilling matchup this Saturday between the #4 Houston Cougars and #11 Auburn Tigers at the Toyota Center. What are your thoughts on this matchup?
**Michael Thompson:** Thanks for having me! This game is certainly significant for both programs. They’re not just highly ranked, but both teams have shown early on that they can dominate their opponents. Houston’s impressive win against Jackson State, coupled with Auburn’s blowout over Vermont, sets the stage for a highly competitive game.
**Interviewer:** Houston came off a remarkable 97-40 win, showcasing both offense and defense. What stood out to you in their performance?
**Michael Thompson:** Their offensive efficiency was staggering — shooting over 58% from the field is no small feat. LJ Cryer and Milos Uzan were instrumental in making plays, especially Uzan’s near triple-double. Plus, their defensive capabilities, forcing 21 turnovers, highlight their intensity on that end of the court.
**Interviewer:** Taking a look at Auburn, they’ve started strong too. How do you see them matching up against Houston?
**Michael Thompson:** Auburn’s offense, led by Miles Kelly, has the ability to shoot at will from beyond the arc. They will need to exploit Houston’s defense and capitalize on any turnover opportunities. It’s going to be essential for them to keep pace with Houston’s scoring, considering the Cougars can explode offensively.
**Interviewer:** Last year’s matchup resulted in a win for Houston. Does that add any pressure to this game, or can history be set aside?
**Michael Thompson:** History can certainly play a role, but both teams will come in focused on the present. Houston’s current dominance against Auburn — winning the last six matchups — might weigh on Auburn’s mind, but they have the talent to compete. It’s all about which team executes better on game day.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, what key matchups should fans be watching for during the game?
**Michael Thompson:** Definitely keep an eye on the guard play. Cryer and Uzan for Houston versus Kelly and Auburn’s guards will be crucial. The effectiveness of each team’s backcourt will go a long way in determining the winner. Additionally, rebounding will be a critical battle; whoever controls the boards could control the game.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like an exciting game is on the horizon! Any final thoughts for fans attending or tuning in?
**Michael Thompson:** Just that they’re in for a treat! It’s early in the season, but games like this can set the tone for the rest of the year. Fans should enjoy the atmosphere at the Toyota Center, and for those watching on ESPN+, don’t miss a moment of what promises to be a fantastic college basketball showdown!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Michael! We appreciate your insights and can’t wait for the big game!
