MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MARCH 22: Jamal Shead #1 of the Houston Cougars celebrates a basket against the Longwood Lancers during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at FedExForum on March 22, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)Justin Ford/Getty Images

Houston's Easy Win vs. Longwood Has March Madness Fans Eyeing Title Matchup vs. UConn

Andrew PetersMar 23, 2024

Houston is looking poised for a big NCAA tournament run after the No. 1 Cougars dropped No. 16 Longwood 86-46 on Friday.

Houston wrapped the game up easily in the first half, heading into the break leading 43-16. The Cougars could put things in cruise control early on in the second half and relax before their Round of 32 matchup against No. 9 Texas A&M.

L.J. Cryer led the way for Houston with 17 points, while Emanuel Sharp, Jamal Shead and Damian Dunn were also double figures.

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After the Cougars dominant Round of 64 matchup, fans are ready to declare Houston a title favorite while dreaming of a potential matchup against Connecticut in the championship game:

To get there, the Cougars have a potential path that would have them face teams like Purdue, Tennessee and Marquette. A championship appearance could see them face off against one of the top teams on the other side of the bracket like UConn or North Carolina.

Houston still has a long way to go in the tournament, but picking up a dominant win on Friday is a good start.