Houston Cougars vs Gonzaga Bulldogs Picks and Predictions March 22nd 2025

Houston vs. Gonzaga: Power Programs Collide in Midwest Showdown

Two elite programs collide on Saturday as No. 1 seed Houston takes on No. 8 seed Gonzaga in a heavyweight Midwest Region second-round battle in Wichita, Kansas.

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Cougars Rolling Behind Nation’s Toughest Identity

Top-seeded Houston (31-4) enters the clash riding a 14-game winning streak and has won 27 of its past 28. The Cougars looked dominant in a 78-40 first-round dismantling of SIU Edwardsville and are eyeing their sixth consecutive Sweet 16 appearance.

Coach Kelvin Sampson’s team prides itself on defense, physicality, and execution — traits that make Houston one of the top national title contenders.

Sampson emphasized the importance of sticking to their identity, noting that teams who stay true to themselves have the best chance in March. Milos Uzan led Houston in the opener with 16 points, and the Cougars’ depth and relentless pressure remain key ingredients in their championship pursuit.

Gonzaga’s March Pedigree Faces Its Toughest Test

Gonzaga (26-8) has now made 26 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and is aiming for a 10th straight Sweet 16 berth. The Bulldogs blitzed Georgia 89-68 in their first-round game, jumping out to a stunning 27-3 lead and never looking back.

Led by Khalif Battle (24 points), Braden Huff (18 points, 8 rebounds), and Nolan Hickman (18 points, 5 threes), the Zags looked like the team that finished the season on a 12-2 tear.

Coach Mark Few said the team’s late-season surge was about trust, development, and playing together — elements that have powered Gonzaga to national prominence over the past two decades.

While this year’s Zags carry their lowest seed since 2016, their offensive rhythm and tournament experience make them a dangerous out, even against a top seed.

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A Rare Heavyweight Clash in the Round of 32

Saturday’s game marks the first-ever meeting between Houston and Gonzaga, and it has the feel of a deep-tournament showdown. Both programs have made deep March runs in recent years and bring elite-level coaching, veteran leadership, and explosive scoring.

Gonzaga is shooting over 40 percent from 3-point range during its five-game winning streak, while Houston counters with one of the top defensive units in the nation. The Bulldogs will need to navigate the Cougars’ pressure and rebounding advantage, while Houston must slow down Gonzaga’s perimeter threats.

Expect a high-stakes chess match between Sampson’s toughness-first mentality and Few’s offensive fluidity.

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