By Cole Rothman & Matt Lichens

Early in the 2018-19 season last year the Ducks traveled to play the University of Houston Cougars, and lost a close game 61-65 in Houston. Tonight, the Cougars traveled to Matthew Knight Arena for a rematch against the undefeated Ducks.

The first half started sloppily with 13 turnovers between the two teams, but the Ducks started to pick it up with the help of some great shooting from Payton Pritchard, Anthony Mathis, and Chris Duarte who all finished with 8 points at the half. The halftime score was 32-27 with the Ducks leading off some stellar guard play. 

The second half started much better for the Ducks, with Mathis hitting a couple of clutch 3 pointers in the first few minutes. Houston were dominant on the boards and were able to collect 17 offensive rebounds on the night and score 21 second chance points. The Ducks shooting saved the team from what could have been a much closer game. The Ducks lead by Pritchard, Mathis and Duarte shot 47% from three on 21 attempts. 

After this win over Houston, Oregon has a 5 day break before they travel to the Bahamas for the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament. The first game of the tournament is on November 27th at 6:30 p.m, against a solid Seton Hall team.

Audio Story: Cole Rothman

Full Post-game Audio: