LAWRENCE, KS – In a tense Big 12 showdown, No. 3 Houston secured their ninth consecutive victory, defeating the Kansas Jayhawks 65-59 on Monday night. L.J. Cryer led the charge for the Cougars, delivering a crucial 22-point performance that proved decisive in the hard-fought contest.
The Cougars (26-4, 18-1 Big 12) demonstrated their resilience, particularly in the closing moments. With the game hanging in the balance, Emanuel Sharp, coming off the bench, sank two pivotal free throws to extend Houston’s lead to 63-59 with just 20 seconds remaining. Houston’s composure at the foul line, going 4-for-4 in the final stretch, sealed the win. Sharp contributed 12 points overall.
Cryer’s offensive prowess was evident from the outset, as he poured in 18 points on 7-of-13 shooting in the first half, propelling Houston to a 30-27 advantage at halftime. Milos Uzan and Mylik Wilson also played key roles, each scoring 10 points. Wilson added six assists and five rebounds to his stat line. Despite shooting only 35% from the field and 7-of-20 from beyond the arc, Houston’s defensive tenacity and clutch free-throw shooting secured the victory.
For the Jayhawks (19-11, 10-9), Hunter Dickinson posted a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds. KJ Adams Jr. added 15 points, while David Coit provided a spark off the bench with 14 points. Kansas shot a respectable 45% from the field, but ultimately fell short against the determined Cougars.
The victory further solidifies Houston’s position atop the Big 12 standings, while Kansas will look to regroup as they approach the postseason.
