Houston Cougars take on the Tennessee Volunteers in Elite 8

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Houston Cougars take on the Tennessee Volunteers in Elite 8.

The Houston Cougars and the Tennessee Volunteers are set to clash in the Elite Eight of the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. This highly anticipated matchup will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 1:20 p.m. Eastern Time. The game will be broadcast nationally on CBS and available for streaming on Paramount Plus and the NCAA March Madness app. ​

Houston Cougars’ Journey to the Elite Eight

Houston, the No. 1 seed, secured their spot in the Elite Eight with a dramatic 62-60 victory over Purdue. The game was decided in the final moments when Milos Uzan scored a layup with just one second remaining, following a well-executed inbound play.

Tennessee Volunteers’ Path to the Elite Eight

Tennessee, the No. 2 seed, advanced by defeating Kentucky with a commanding 78-65 win. This victory not only secured their Elite Eight berth but also served as redemption for previous losses to Kentucky earlier in the season

Coaching Matchup: Kelvin Sampson vs. Rick Barnes

The game features a compelling coaching duel between Houston’s Kelvin Sampson and Tennessee’s Rick Barnes. Sampson has led the Cougars to four consecutive 30-win seasons and a Final Four appearance in 2021, aiming for Houston’s first national championship. Barnes, formerly the head coach of the Texas Longhorns, has transformed Tennessee into an SEC powerhouse.

Key Players to Watch

  • Houston Cougars: Milos Uzan, whose clutch performance against Purdue was pivotal, will be a player to watch.

  • Tennessee Volunteers: Chaz Lanier, who set the program record for most three-pointers in a single season during the tournament, will be a significant threat from beyond the arc.

Analyst Predictions and Expectations

Analysts have varied opinions on the outcome. ESPN’s Jay Bilas predicts Tennessee reaching the Elite Eight but falling to Houston, citing the Cougars’ strength. Conversely, some view Tennessee’s path to the Final Four as manageable, suggesting a potential upset.

The Elite Eight matchup between the Houston Cougars and the Tennessee Volunteers promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams demonstrating resilience and skill throughout the tournament. Fans can anticipate a game marked by strategic plays, standout performances, and the high stakes inherent in the quest for a Final Four berth.​

 

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