For the third year in a row, the Houston Cougars men’s basketball team will enter the NCAA Tournament as a number one seed and will face off against another Cougar school in Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville.

As it currently stands, Houston is a -28.5 favorite to win this game and should handle this team easily, so long as they can continue their defensive dominance and find ways to create consistent offense.

Trust the offense that got you here

In addition to having one of the best defenses in the nation, the Cougars are showcasing they have an elite offense as well thanks to multiple players who can take over a game with ease.

Senior guard LJ Cryer has been one of the most consistent scorers for Houston, averaging a team-high 15.2 points per game, but had some help recently carrying the offensive load from two of his fellow starters.

Forward Emanuel Sharp had two of his best games of the season during the Big 12 Tournament, and guard Milos Uzan scored a career-high 25 points in the conference championship game against Arizona.

Even if Cryer has an inefficient offensive game like he did against Arizona, Houston has either Sharp or Uzan to help maintain this offense when needed.

In addition to their offense, Houston has been successful this season thanks to their depth. They will also be getting a starter back just in time for the start of the NCAA Tournament.

J’Wan Roberts' health

During Houston’s first-round game against Colorado, senior forward J’Wan Roberts suffered an ankle injury and missed the remainder of the Big 12 Tournament.

X-rays on Roberts' ankle were negative, but Houston still wisely sat out their star forward for their final two games.
All signs indicate the 23-year-old will be ready to play once the NCAA Tournament starts on Thursday, even if it is on a limited basis.

Roberts returning to this rotation will only further bolster Houston’s offense and defense, as he is averaging 10.8 points per game and is the team's leading rebounder.

Defense wins championships

Houston boasts one of the best defenses in the nation and holds their opponents to a measly 58.5 points per game.

Head coach Kelvin Sampson instills a defensive-first mentality into his team year after year, and this season is no different.

This may be one of the best teams Houston has ever had, and when fully healthy, the Cougars can make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

Houston’s game against SIU Edwardsville will be Thursday at 1 pm, and the winner will play either Georgia or Gonzaga in the next round.