Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | 7:00 PM ET
Fertitta Center — Houston, TX
TV: FS1
A major Big 12 matchup takes center stage in Houston as the UCF Knights visit the No. 8-ranked Houston Cougars. With conference positioning and postseason momentum on the line, this contest pits UCF’s high-powered offense against one of the nation’s most disciplined and physical programs. Houston enters as a heavy favorite, but UCF arrives confident and capable of testing the Cougars on the road.
Betting Lines
- Spread: Houston -15.5 (approx.)
- Total: 146.5 (approx.)
- ESPN Win Probability: Houston 92.9% | UCF 7.1%
(Lines subject to change)
Resume Check
UCF Knights (17–4, 6–3 Big 12)
UCF has been one of the Big 12’s most dangerous offensive teams this season, ranking among the league leaders in scoring. The Knights average over 84 points per game and rely heavily on guard play and perimeter shooting. While they’ve been competitive in conference play, consistency on defense has been an ongoing challenge—especially against elite opponents.
Strengths:
- Fast-paced offense
- Multiple scoring options
- Strong perimeter shooting
Concerns:
- Defensive efficiency
- Rebounding against physical teams
- Road performance in hostile environments
Houston Cougars (19–2, 7–1 Big 12)
Houston continues to embody its trademark identity: elite defense, toughness, and discipline. The Cougars allow just over 61 points per game and thrive on forcing turnovers and controlling the glass. Ranked in the top 10 nationally, they’ve turned the Fertitta Center into one of college basketball’s toughest venues.
Strengths:
- Top-tier defense
- Physical rebounding
- Balanced scoring
- Home-court dominance
Concerns:
- Occasional scoring droughts
- Heavy reliance on defensive pressure
Players to Watch
Riley Kugel (UCF)
- 14.8 PPG | 42.3 FG% | 40.0 3PT%
Kugel leads UCF in scoring and provides reliable perimeter shooting. His ability to hit tough shots will be crucial if the Knights hope to keep pace.
Themus Fulks (UCF)
- 14.2 PPG | 7.2 APG
Fulks is the engine of UCF’s offense. His playmaking and decision-making against Houston’s pressure defense will shape the flow of the game.
Kingston Flemings (HOU)
- 17.0 PPG | 5.4 APG | 1.8 SPG
Flemings leads Houston in scoring and sets the tone on both ends. His ability to score efficiently while defending at a high level makes him the Cougars’ most complete weapon.
Chris Cenac Jr. (HOU)
- 9.3 PPG | 7.7 RPG
Cenac anchors Houston’s frontcourt and provides energy on the glass. His rebounding presence will be key against UCF’s interior attack.
How Each Team Can Win
UCF Knights
- Push the tempo and score early
- Shoot efficiently from three-point range
- Limit turnovers against Houston’s pressure
- Get strong guard play from Kugel and Fulks
- Stay competitive on the boards
Houston Cougars
- Control pace with half-court defense
- Force turnovers and convert in transition
- Dominate rebounding battles
- Wear down UCF physically
- Capitalize on home-court energy
Prediction: With Houston’s elite defense and UCF’s explosive offense colliding, this matchup offers a clear contrast in styles. The Cougars will look to impose their physical, grind-it-out approach, while the Knights aim to speed the game up and turn it into a scoring contest. If UCF can knock down shots early, this could become interesting. If Houston dictates tempo, the Cougars are well-positioned to stay in control and get a victory at home.
Houston 75, UCF 64
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