3 Takeaways: No. 8 Houston’s Blowout of Jacksonville State Shows Its Scoring Depth

Houston seized control early

The Cougars quickly established a large advantage, with senior forward Joseph Tugler scoring four early points. Delrecco Gillespie and Dedan Thomas Jr. added three-pointers, while Mercy Miller and Arafan Diane converted baskets with fouls.

Houston led 22-3 with 11:33 remaining in the first half. Jacksonville State cut the margin to 10, at 25-15, but the Cougars went into halftime ahead 45-23. Houston, ranked No. 8, finished with a 92-46 home win. The result moved the Cougars to 3-0, while Jacksonville State fell to 1-2.

Free throws fuel the offense

Houston has emphasized scoring in the paint and attacking the basket this season, bringing more opportunities at the free-throw line. Against Jacksonville State, the Cougars made 27 of 32 attempts, an 84 percent rate.

Thomas and other Houston guards have been effective at drawing fouls. The team also made 27 of 37 free throws in its season-opening game against La Salle.

Guards and reserves contribute

Thomas scored 17 points and handed out seven assists, leading Houston in scoring for the third straight game. Miller recorded a season-high 15 points, along with five assists and four rebounds, and made six of eight free throws.

Senior guard Chendall Weaver scored 10 points in 11 minutes and collected four rebounds. He is currently eligible under a temporary restraining order and made seven of eight free throws.

Diane scored nine points and junior Braden East added eight. Houston’s bench produced 43 points, including four from redshirt freshman Bryce Jackson.