Event Preview
Overview
The Texas Southern Tigers are set to host the Sam Houston State Bearkats on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 4:00 PM CST (3:00 PM PST) at the Health and Physical Education Arena in Houston, Texas. This matchup marks the second consecutive year these teams have faced off, with Sam Houston State leading the all-time series 4-3. (tsusports.com) Both teams are eager to secure a victory to bolster their early-season records and gain momentum as they progress through the non-conference schedule.
Season Snapshot
Sam Houston State Bearkats
The Bearkats enter this game with a 5-2 record, including a 3-0 mark at home. Their recent performances have been strong, highlighted by a 94-68 victory over Idaho on November 28, 2025, where they shot 55.38% from the field and 66.67% from the free-throw line. (oddsshark.com) Notably, they have been effective from beyond the arc, making 16 three-pointers in that game.
Texas Southern Tigers
The Tigers have faced challenges this season, holding a 1-5 record with a 1-1 home record. Their most recent game was a 93-83 loss to Oklahoma State on December 3, 2025, where they led at halftime but were outscored 52-24 in the paint during the second half. (reuters.com) Despite these setbacks, the Tigers have shown resilience and are looking to turn their season around with a strong performance against the Bearkats.
Recent Form
Sam Houston State Bearkats
The Bearkats have demonstrated offensive prowess, averaging 87.4 points per game while allowing 73.6 points. Their field goal percentage stands at 47%, and they average 43.0 rebounds per game. Their recent form includes a four-game winning streak, indicating a team in good rhythm. (espn.com)
Texas Southern Tigers
The Tigers have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 87.5 points per game. Offensively, they average 74.3 points per game with a field goal percentage of 46%. They have shown signs of improvement, securing a win in their most recent game, which could provide a boost in confidence heading into this matchup. (espn.com)
Talking Points
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Offensive Firepower: Can Sam Houston State's high-scoring offense continue its dominance against a Texas Southern defense that has struggled to contain opponents?
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Home Court Advantage: Will Texas Southern's home-court environment provide the necessary boost to overcome their early-season challenges?
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Defensive Adjustments: How will Texas Southern address their defensive lapses, particularly in the paint, to prevent another high-scoring game?
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Key Player Performances: Which players will step up to make a significant impact on the game's outcome?
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Momentum Shift: Can Texas Southern build on their recent win to gain momentum, or will Sam Houston State's winning streak continue?
Players to Watch
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Isaiah Manning (Sam Houston State): Averaging 11.3 points per game, Manning has been a consistent scorer for the Bearkats. (foxsports.com)
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Troy Hupstead (Texas Southern): Leading the Tigers with 15.4 points per game, Hupstead is a key offensive weapon for Texas Southern. (foxsports.com)
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Po'Boigh King (Sam Houston State): Scored 20 points in the recent game against Oklahoma State, showcasing his scoring ability. (reuters.com)
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Cameron Patterson (Texas Southern): Led the Tigers with 18 points in their game against Texas A&M, indicating his potential to lead the offense. (reuters.com)
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Kavion McClain (Texas Southern): Averaging 12.7 points per game, McClain is a significant contributor to the Tigers' scoring efforts. (foxsports.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Offensive Efficiency vs. Defensive Struggles: Sam Houston State's high-scoring offense will test Texas Southern's defense, which has allowed an average of 87.5 points per game. (espn.com)
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Home Court Dynamics: Texas Southern's home-court advantage could be pivotal in overcoming their early-season challenges. (tsusports.com)
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Rebounding Battle: With Sam Houston State averaging 43.0 rebounds per game, their dominance on the boards could be a decisive factor. (espn.com)
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Defensive Adjustments: Texas Southern's ability to make defensive adjustments, particularly in the paint, will be crucial to contain Sam Houston State's offense. (reuters.com)
Fun Facts
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The Health and Physical Education Arena, where the game is being held, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate fan base.
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Sam Houston State's four-game winning streak is their longest since the 2022-2023 season.
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Texas Southern's recent win against Texas A&M was their first victory over a Power Five conference team in over a year.
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The Tigers' 93-83 loss to Oklahoma State was their closest margin of defeat this season.
Things to Chirp About
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"Can Texas Southern's defense step up to contain Sam Houston State's high-scoring offense?"
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"Will the Tigers' home-court advantage be enough to overcome their early-season struggles?"
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"How will Sam Houston State's rebounding dominance impact the game's outcome?"
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"Which player will emerge as the game-changer in this crucial matchup?"
Prediction
While Sam Houston State enters the game with a strong record and offensive momentum, Texas Southern's home-court advantage and recent improvements suggest a competitive matchup. The Tigers' ability to make defensive adjustments and capitalize on their home environment could lead to a closely contested game. However, Sam Houston State's offensive firepower may ultimately prove decisive.