LAWRENCE, Kan. — J’Wan Roberts led the charge for No. 7 Houston with a significant performance, scoring 24 points, including six crucial points during two overtime periods, as the Cougars secured a 92-86 victory over No. 12 Kansas on Saturday night.
Roberts made a pair of free throws with just 13.9 seconds remaining in the regular time, leveling the scores. In a gripping finish to the first overtime, Houston responded with consecutive three-pointers from Emanuel Sharp and Mylik Wilson, pushing the match into a second overtime.
Supporting Roberts’ efforts, Mylik Wilson contributed 18 points, while Milos Uzan rounded out the strong showing with 17 points alongside nine rebounds and nine assists.
On the other side, Kansas (14-5, 5-3) was paced by Flory Bidunga, who scored 19 points, along with Hunter Dickinson adding another 17 points to the scoreboard.
Injury Impacts
Despite the victory, the Cougars faced challenges due to injuries. Emanuel Sharp, who missed Houston’s previous game due to an injury, played for 25 minutes but could only muster eight points. Additionally, Ja’Vier Francis suffered an ankle injury early in the game and played just over three minutes, finishing with four points.
Bidunga, for Kansas, had a rocky start to the game, scoring only two points with a last-second tip-in in the first half, but rebounded impressively, scoring 17 since then to achieve his career-high total of 19 points. His performance became particularly vital with K.J. Adams sidelined by a shoulder separation, allowing Bidunga to step up against Houston’s formidable front line.
Turning Point
A pivotal moment came early in the second half when Houston launched a 13-0 scoring run, transforming a 40-31 deficit into a lead. During this spell, Kansas struggled significantly, failing to register a point for over six minutes and missing eight consecutive shots, including a clear breakaway dunk opportunity from Shakeel Moore.
Statistical Highlights
The game reflected struggle for both teams from the free-throw line, with a combined 56% success rate only showcasing missed opportunities. Houston began the second half horrifically at the line, missing their initial eight attempts and concluded the half shooting just 4 of 13, making 14 of 25 for the game overall. Kansas, similarly, finished 17 of 30 from the free-throw line.
Next Matches
Looking ahead, Houston will be traveling to West Virginia for their next battle on Wednesday night, while Kansas will host UCF on Tuesday night.
