Houston coach Kelvin Sampson questions free-throw disparity after loss to Tennessee
November 25, 2025
Houston coach Kelvin Sampson highlighted the free-throw disparity after the third-ranked Cougars lost 76-73 to No. 17 Tennessee. The Volunteers took 29 foul shots, making 23, while Houston was 8 of 11. Sampson frequently returned to the topic during the postgame news conference. He said both teams played aggressive defense and he questioned the difference in opportunities at the foul line. It was the Cougars’ first loss this season after opening 6-0. Sampson never directly criticized the officiating but made clear he wasn’t pleased with some calls. He emphasized the free-throw line was the difference in the game.