Houston coach Kelvin Sampson addressed the media on Thursday ahead of the Cougars’ Final Four matchup against Duke in San Antonio. He reflected on his teamโs journey, discussed Dukeโs strengths, praised Jon Scheyerโs coaching, and highlighted Houstonโs biggest improvement this season.
On Reaching the Final Four
Sampson expressed pride in his team, emphasizing that every squad embarks on a journey, learning and growing from the offseason through the season. He credited strong player leadership for Houstonโs ability to overcome adversity, particularly on the road. While they werenโt dominant early on, players like LJ Cryer, JโWan Roberts, Emanuel Sharp, JoJo Tugler, and others helped guide first-year point guard Milos Uzan, contributing to the teamโs steady improvement.
On Facing Duke
Sampson acknowledged Dukeโs talented freshmen Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach but pointed out that their success is also due to veteran support. He praised coach Jon Scheyer for strategically integrating experienced players like Sion James and Tyrese Proctor with the young stars. Sampson noted that while freshmen may start the season inexperienced, by March, theyโve matured significantly.
On Jon Scheyerโs Coaching
Sampson commended Scheyerโs coaching, stating that people no longer compare him to his predecessor, Mike Krzyzewski, because he has established himself in his own right. โHeโs got his team in the Final Four that speaks volumes,โ Sampson said.
On Retaining Veteran Players
Sampson attributed Houstonโs ability to keep experienced players to the continuity of his coaching staff. He emphasized the programโs culture, hiring staff from within and fostering a family-like atmosphere. โWe develop our staff the way we develop our players,โ he said, reinforcing that culture is a cornerstone of Houstonโs success.
On Houstonโs Offensive Improvement
Sampson never worries about replacing star players but instead focuses on how the team can improve as a whole. He noted that while Houston couldnโt necessarily become a better defensive team after losing standout guard Jamal Shead, they could improve offensively specifically in three-point shooting. By researching and developing players like Milos Uzan, Terrance Arceneaux, and Mylik Wilson, Houston transitioned from being a team that takes threes to one that consistently makes them.
As Houston prepares for its showdown with Duke, Sampsonโs confidence in his teamโs evolution and culture remains evident.
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