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Houston Stuns Duke with Historic Final Four Comeback, Advances to Championship

The Cougars erased a 14-point deficit to defeat Duke 70-67, setting up a title clash against Florida as Houston seeks its first NCAA championship since 1984.

Duke forward Cooper Flagg (2) stands with teammates Tyrese Proctor (5) and Kon Knueppel after their loss to Houston in the national semifinals of the 2025 NCAA men's tournament at the Alamodome.
Houston's Emanuel Sharp (21) and J'Wan Roberts celebrate after their comeback win against Duke on Saturday night at the Alamodome.
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Overview

  • Houston's 14-point comeback with 8:17 remaining marked the second-largest second-half rally in Final Four history, ending in a 70-67 victory over Duke.
  • J’Wan Roberts, a sixth-year senior, sealed the win with two critical free throws in the final seconds, giving Houston its first lead since early in the game.
  • Duke's offense collapsed in the final 13 minutes, managing just two field goals as Houston's defensive pressure overwhelmed the freshman-heavy roster.
  • Houston's coach Kelvin Sampson credited the team's culture and resilience for the victory, calling the effort a testament to their refusal to quit.
  • The Cougars will face Florida in the championship game on April 7, with both teams aiming to end decades-long title droughts in NCAA history.