Kelvin Sampson’s next act: Houston’s 2025-26 big games to watch originally appeared on The Sporting News
Kelvin Sampson isn’t in the business of soft schedules. The Houston Cougars are the defending national runner-ups and enter 2025-26 with top-five preseason buzz, a roster deep enough to chase another Big 12 crown, and a slate that throws them into battles from November through March. The season isn’t padded, it’s filled with measuring-stick games.
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Non-conference showdowns
Nov. 16 vs Auburn (Birmingham)
Neutral-site clash with SEC firepower. Auburn’s athletic front line will test Houston’s rebounding and interior toughness.
Nov. 24 vs Syracuse (Las Vegas)
The Cougars open the Players Era Championship against the Orange. How Houston attacks the zone will show how polished their half-court execution really is.
Nov. 25 vs Tennessee (Las Vegas)
A defensive slugfest in the desert. This one may be the ultimate “first to 60 wins” matchup.
Dec. 13 vs Arkansas (Newark)
The Never Forget Tribute Classic gives Houston another nationally televised stage. Guard play will be the difference.
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MORE: Duke basketball’s post-Cooper Flagg era begins: Full 2025-26 schedule revealed
Dec. 29 at Cincinnati
The league opener comes on the road in one of the toughest gyms in the conference. No easing in.
Jan. 6 at Baylor
Two physical, guard-driven teams collide in Waco. A possible preview of the Big 12’s top tier.
Feb. 16 vs Arizona
A marquee home game in Houston. Arizona’s tempo versus Houston’s defensive discipline makes this a must-watch.
Feb. 21 at Kansas
The trip to Allen Fieldhouse is always the league’s toughest ask. This one could have Big 12 title implications.
Feb. 28 vs Baylor
The return matchup in Houston has late-season stakes, and a possible league crown is on the line.
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What it means for Sampson’s Cougars
The schedule is designed to toughen Houston long before March. Between Auburn, Tennessee, Arkansas, and a brutal Big 12 gauntlet that includes Baylor twice, Arizona, and Kansas, Sampson’s group will get every test it could want. If the Cougars stay true to their identity, defense, rebounding, and toughness, they’ll be positioned for another deep run.
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