UH takes advantage of second chance against Rice

Houstonist loves it when UH and Rice go head-to-head, because it means we win either way, right? Last night the Cougars faced the Owls in basketball for the second time this season. Rice already won at home against UH this season. Termed an "epic collapse" by those sensationalistic Chronicle sportswriters, in their last meeting, UH blew a 24-point lead in the second half. This time, however, the Coogs had the home court advantage, and, well, they took advantage of it.

UH did have their work cut out for them though, with the Owls making 14 free throws in the last seven minutes. But UH held on to win 70-63 in front of a 6,000+ home crowd. Last night's win moves the Cougars into second place in Conference USA, even with a mediocre 11-9 overall record. Cougar basketball coach Tom Penders was pleased with the victory (as were Cougar basketball fans):

It was a great performance by our kids from start to finish. They made a run, but we didn't crack. We answered them in critical situations.

Well, congratulations to UH on their win and thanks to Rice for keeping the rivalry interesting.