Houston Cougars end successful Big 12 debut season on bittersweet note in the Sweet 16

In Dallas, Texas, the No. 1 Houston Cougars faced challenges during their match against the Duke Blue Devils, ultimately resulting in a 54-51 loss that ended their March Madness run.

Throughout the regular season, Houston had overcome injuries to key players such as Terrence Arceneaux and Joseph Tugler. However, they faced another setback when Jamal Shead suffered an injury in the first half of the game against Duke.

Shead, a standout player standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall and recognized as an All-American, Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, and conference Player of the Year, injured his right ankle while driving to the basket. Despite efforts to continue, he had to leave the game with 6:38 remaining in the first half, requiring assistance from trainers.

Reports indicated that Shead was questionable to return, with X-rays revealing no significant damage but confirming a severe ankle sprain. Although there was a possibility for his return, Shead remained on the bench for the remainder of the game.

Despite the absence of Shead, Houston’s defense managed to force 14 turnovers from Duke. However, their efforts were not enough to secure a victory.

This defeat marks the second consecutive year that Houston has been eliminated in the Sweet Sixteen stage of the tournament.