San Antonio – Jon Scheyer, the new head coach of Duke, chose to face the toughest test for his team before his first official game. Scheyer led the Duke team in a secret preseason scrimmage against Kelvin Sampson and the Houston Cougars. Despite Duke’s loss during the scrimmage on October 29, 2022, Sampson recognized something special in Scheyer’s coaching style.
The scrimmage served as a significant experience for the players, with Duke guard Tyrese Proctor recalling the physical intensity of the game. According to Houston assistant Kellen Sampson, Proctor showed talent despite feeling overwhelmed by the fast-paced game. The encounter between Duke and Houston set the stage for their more pivotal matchup in the Sweet 16 last year, leading Duke to a 54-51 victory over the Cougars and securing a spot in the Final Four.
As Duke and Houston prepare to face each other again in the upcoming Final Four, the game holds different meanings for each team. While Duke aims to continue its winning streak, Houston sees the rematch as a testament to their journey to success under the guidance of Kelvin Sampson. When Sampson took over the Houston program in 2014, the team faced numerous challenges, including a prolonged absence from the NCAA Tournament and neglect of its facilities.
The transformation of the Houston basketball program was a collective effort led by Kelvin Sampson, with his family playing integral roles in the revitalization process. Through dedication and hard work, Sampson managed to elevate Houston’s status and bring the team to its third consecutive appearance as a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Despite initial skepticism and obstacles, Sampson’s leadership and strategic approach led to the program’s resurgence, culminating in the team’s remarkable success in recent years.
The Sampson family’s commitment to Houston basketball traces back to their shared vision of building a winning program. By implementing innovative strategies and fostering a culture of excellence, Sampson instilled a sense of pride and determination within the team. As the Sampson family prepares for another Final Four appearance, they reflect on the challenges they overcame to transform Houston into a competitive and respected program on the national stage.
From navigating administrative indifference to overcoming logistical obstacles, the Sampson family’s journey at Houston exemplifies perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. As they prepare to face Duke in the upcoming Final Four matchup, the Sampson family’s impact on Houston basketball serves as a testament to their unwavering dedication and unwavering belief in the team’s potential.