Houston Cougars vs West Virginia Mountaineers Picks and Predictions January 15th 2025

No. 10 Houston Faces High-Scoring Javon Small and West Virginia in a Big 12 Showdown

No. 10 Houston’s top-ranked defense will be put to the test on Wednesday as it hosts West Virginia, led by the Big 12’s leading scorer, Javon Small. The game promises an intriguing battle of Houston’s defensive dominance against West Virginia’s offensive firepower.

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Javon Small: A Dynamic Scorer

Javon Small, a senior transfer from Oklahoma State, leads the Big 12 in scoring with an impressive 19.8 points per game. Small has been the cornerstone of the Mountaineers’ attack, showcasing his ability to score at all three levels: finishing at the rim, pulling up for mid-range shots, and hitting step-back threes.

Houston coach Kelvin Sampson was full of praise for Small, describing him as “one of the best guards in the country.” Sampson emphasized Small’s versatility and leadership, stating, “He’s got swagger. He hits stepback threes, drives both ways, and has a contagious energy that elevates his team.”

West Virginia (12-3, 3-1 Big 12) enters the game on a high note, having secured a 78-70 victory over Colorado. Small led the charge with 26 points, proving once again why he’s the Big 12’s top scorer.

Houston’s Lockdown Defense

Houston (12-3, 4-0 Big 12) boasts a defense that allows just 54.2 points per game, the best in the conference. During their current eight-game winning streak, the Cougars have not allowed any opponent to score more than 57 points.

Sampson’s defensive system has been the backbone of Houston’s success. The team’s ability to stifle opponents will be critical as they aim to contain Small and disrupt West Virginia’s rhythm.

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Balanced Offense Propels Houston

While Houston is known for its defense, the Cougars have also shown depth and balance on offense. In their dominant 87-57 win over Kansas State, five players scored in double figures, led by Emanuel Sharp’s 15-point effort. Sharp and LJ Cryer are Houston’s leading scorers, both averaging 14.1 points per game.

Graduate student J’Wan Roberts continues to be a key contributor for the Cougars. Roberts recently scored his 1,000th career point and broke the school record for games played with 150 appearances. Sampson lauded Roberts’ development, stating, “He’s gone from a naive freshman to an absolute pillar of our program.”

West Virginia’s Supporting Cast

In addition to Small’s scoring, West Virginia benefited from a standout performance by Joseph Yesufu in their win over Colorado. Yesufu, a sixth-year senior, scored 18 points in 28 minutes, showcasing his ability to attack the rim.

West Virginia coach Darian DeVries noted Yesufu’s impact, saying, “At that point in the game, we needed someone who could get downhill and get to the rim. Joseph delivered.”

Key Matchup: Javon Small vs. Houston’s Defense

The game’s outcome will likely hinge on the battle between Small and Houston’s defense. The Cougars excel at forcing opponents into tough shots, while Small thrives on creating opportunities through his scoring versatility.

Houston’s ability to limit Small’s production will be a critical factor. Similarly, West Virginia’s success depends on how well their supporting players, like Yesufu, can step up against a disciplined Houston defense.

Players to Watch

• Javon Small (West Virginia): Averaging 19.8 points per game, Small is the driving force behind the Mountaineers’ offense.
• Emanuel Sharp (Houston): A consistent scorer and Houston’s leading offensive weapon.
• J’Wan Roberts (Houston): A versatile contributor on both ends of the floor with a strong presence in the paint.
• Joseph Yesufu (West Virginia): A speedy guard capable of breaking down defenses and providing valuable minutes off the bench.

What’s at Stake

Houston enters the game tied for first place in the Big 12 with Arizona and Iowa State. A win would solidify their position as one of the conference’s top teams. For West Virginia, the matchup provides an opportunity to prove themselves against a top-ranked opponent and maintain momentum in the Big 12 standings.

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Prediction

The clash between Houston’s stifling defense and Small’s high-scoring prowess makes this a must-watch game. While Houston’s balanced scoring and defensive discipline give them an edge, West Virginia’s ability to execute offensively will be key. Expect a close contest with Houston’s defense ultimately tipping the scales.