
TCU has momentum. Houston has motivation. When the Horned Frogs host the sixth-ranked Cougars on Wednesday night, the matchup feels like a classic Big 12 measuring-stick game - one team trying to prove it belongs in the national conversation, the other desperate to steady itself after a painful loss.
Houston enters the contest coming off a last-second defeat to Texas Tech, the kind of loss that lingers unless you respond the right way.
TCU, meanwhile, has quietly built confidence with back-to-back conference wins and now has a chance to add a statement victory to its résumé.
For the Horned Frogs, slowing Houston starts with understanding who drives the Cougars’ engine, and KillerFrogs has pinpointed a couple of names to watch out for.
At the top of that list is freshman guard Kingston Flemings, and yes - the hype is very real. The San Antonio native has quickly become Houston’s offensive centerpiece, leading the team in scoring, assists, and steals. His blend of speed, control, and confidence is rare for a first-year player, and he’s only getting better as the season moves along.
Flemings is dangerous because he doesn’t rely on one skill. He can beat defenders off the dribble, pull up comfortably from mid-range, or bury shots from deep.
More importantly, his vision forces defenses to make tough choices. Collapse on him, and he’ll find shooters. Stay home, and he’ll attack the rim. He’s explosive, athletic, and fearless - the type of player who can flip a game in a five-minute stretch.
Then there’s Emanuel Sharp, the steady hand every contender needs. Sharp’s value isn’t always loud, but it’s constant.
A proven scorer and elite shooter, he spaces the floor and punishes defensive lapses. His presence alone demands attention, opening lanes for teammates and preventing defenses from loading up on Flemings.
Sharp’s experience also shows in his decision-making. He rarely forces shots, understands pace, and knows when to strike.
Against a disciplined TCU defense, his ability to stretch coverage could be just as important as his scoring.
The third name TCU must account for is Milos Uzan, Houston’s connective tissue.
Uzan plays with composure and a high basketball IQ, keeping the Cougars organized while limiting mistakes. He doesn’t need to dominate the ball to impact the game - his passing, spacing, and feel for timing make Houston’s offense flow.
For TCU, the challenge is balance. The Horned Frogs can’t overcommit to one scorer and expect to survive. Houston thrives when defenses lose discipline, and this backcourt trio is designed to exploit even small breakdowns.
Tipoff is set for Wednesday night, and the stakes are clear. If TCU can defend with purpose and control tempo, it has a real shot.
But if Houston’s guards find rhythm early, it could be a long night in Fort Worth.