Houston defeats Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, 82-50

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POSTED: November 11, 2023 -- 11:33 p.m. CT

HOUSTON, TX -- (Fertitta Center)

The Houston Cougars men's basketball team improved to 2-0 Saturday afternoon with an 82-50 win over the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders. The Coogs started slowly and trailed A&M-CC by as much as 5 (12-7) nearly six minutes into the ball game.

"Let's give them a lot of credit," Houston Head Coach Kelvin Sampson said after the game. "That team plays hard; and, they are well coached. I like what he [Coach Jim Shaw] is doing. You can see why they have had great success in their conference."

Houston went on a 12-0 run to lead 19-12. Baskets from guards Damian Dunn and Mylik Wilson combined with 5 made free throws by Dunn and teammate LJ Cryer helped Houston gain the lead. Houston forward Ramon Walker Jr swished a corner 3 for the 19-12 lead.

Walker sparked Houston with his toughness and aggression.

"That's his job," Coach Sampson said of Walker. "His greatest strength is that he is an energy guy. He's improved in a lot of areas; and, he has a very direct role on this team."

LJ Cryer swished a three-point shot to beat the first-half buzzer and stretch Houston's lead to 41-27 at halftime. The Coogs outscored the Islanders 16-6 the final 6:37 of the first half.

Houston cranked up the effort and production early in the second half with three dunks: 2 by big man Ja'Vier Francis and 1 by veteran forward J'Wan Roberts. Houston outscored A&M-Corpus Christi 16-3 in the first 6 plus minutes to blow open the game.

When Francis wasn't getting dunks or layups, he was blocking shots on defense. Francis had 4 of his game-high 5 blocked shots in the second-half.

"Ja'Vier continues to get better," Coach Sampson remarked.

The Islanders made 9 of 37 field goal attempts (24.3%) in the second half while the Coogs shot 46.9 fg% (15 for 32) in the second 20 minutes.

J'Wan Roberts led Houston with 17 points and 9 rebounds. LJ Cryer was next with 15 points. Francis added 13 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals to go with his 5 blocks. Emanuel Sharp chipped in 11 points.

Houston won the battle in the paint 38-12 and outscored the Islanders 20-10 in second chance points.

"We're still growing; but, I like the potential of this team," Coach Sampson commented. "I think this team can be really good."

Houston's next game is Monday, November 13, versus Stetson. Tip is set for 7 p.m. CT on ESPN+.

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