Introduction to the University of Houston’s Basketball Team
The University of Houston’s basketball team, led by coach Kelvin Sampson, is looking to make a strong impression in the upcoming season. With a talented roster and a focus on improving their three-point shooting, the Cougars are poised to be a top contender. In their season-opening game against Jackson State, the team made 12 three-pointers, with big man JoJo Tugler making a surprising contribution from beyond the arc.
A New Era of Shooting for the Cougars
Tugler, who doesn’t consider himself a traditional big man, has been working hard to develop his three-point shot. He practices every day with assistant coach Kellen Sampson, and his efforts are starting to pay off. Coach Sampson believes that Tugler’s three-point shot will be a valuable asset for the team, saying, "It’s going to be a good weapon for us going forward. Guys that practice a particular shot over a period of time just need game confidence. They need to see it go in a couple of times."
A True Shooting Backcourt
The Cougars’ backcourt is loaded with talented shooters, including All-American candidate LJ Cryer, who is one of the best shooters in college basketball. Swing guard Emanuel Sharp is also a threat from beyond the arc, and new starting point guard Milos Uzan is looking to make a big impact. Uzan hit two of four three-pointers in the season opener and has been impressing his teammates with his shooting in practice.
Defensive Intensity and Shooting Improvement
While the Cougars’ defensive intensity remains their backbone, the team is also focused on improving their shooting. Redshirt sophomore guard Terrance Arceneaux has been working on his shot, and reserve guards Ramon Walker Jr. and Mylik Wilson have also been putting in extra time to improve their jumpers. True freshman guard Mercy Miller is a natural scorer and three-point shooter, and he hit a three-pointer in his first official college game.
The Importance of Three-Point Shooting
Three-point shooting can be a game-changer in college basketball, and the Cougars are well aware of its importance. In their close Elite Eight loss to Villanova in 2022, Houston shot just 1 for 20 from three-point land. In last March’s Sweet 16 loss to Duke, the team hit only two three-pointers while the Blue Devils made six. Coach Sampson knows that improving their three-point shooting can make all the difference in big games.
The JoJo Tugler Factor
Tugler’s three-point shot is a valuable addition to the team’s arsenal, and he is confident in his abilities. He told reporters earlier this fall, "I ain’t no big man, no five. I can do everything. I have a step back (jumper) too. Everyone’s going to see." With Tugler’s shooting and the team’s overall improvement, the Cougars are looking to make a deep run in the tournament.
Conclusion
The University of Houston’s basketball team is looking strong this season, with a talented roster and a focus on improving their three-point shooting. With players like JoJo Tugler, LJ Cryer, and Milos Uzan leading the charge, the Cougars are poised to be a top contender. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see how the team’s shooting improves and how they perform in big games. One thing is certain: the Cougars are a team to watch this season.
