Houston Cougars’ NBA Returnees: Is Milos Uzan the Key to a Final Four Run?

By Justin Rubin June 11, 2025 10:11

As the Houston Cougars prepare for the 2025-26 college basketball season, the spotlight shines brightly on their returning NBA-caliber talent, particularly point guard Milos Uzan. After a thrilling 35-5 campaign that culminated in a narrow 65-63 national championship loss to Florida, expectations are sky-high. The big question: Can Uzan’s return propel Houston beyond last year’s heartbreak and into a Final Four run?

Milos Uzan: The Veteran Leader

Milos Uzan, a junior guard, is widely regarded as Houston’s most crucial returning player. Named to the NABC All-Big 12 Second Team and earning USBWA Player of the Week honors in January 2025, Uzan averaged a significant role in the Cougars’ offense and defense. His leadership and experience were vital during Houston’s deep NCAA tournament run.

Uzan’s decision to return for the 2025-26 season was uncertain for weeks, as he declared for the 2025 NBA Draft and had until May 28 to decide. Ultimately, his commitment to return provides Houston with a seasoned floor general who can orchestrate the offense and stabilize the team in high-pressure moments. Head coach Kelvin Sampson emphasized Uzan’s importance: “Milos is key in our pick-and-roll defense and offensive execution. His experience and basketball IQ are irreplaceable.”

Supporting Cast and Team Depth

While Uzan anchors the backcourt, Houston’s roster features other NBA prospects and returning stars. Joseph Tugler, a 6-foot-8 power forward and the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, is back for his junior season. Tugler’s defensive prowess averaging two blocks per game and ranking 23rd nationally makes him a cornerstone of Houston’s suffocating defense.

The Cougars also welcome transfer Pop Isaacs, a combo guard with a career average of 14.2 points per game, who is expected to bolster the perimeter scoring. However, the backcourt depth faces uncertainty with the departure of Terrance Arceneaux to the transfer portal and the graduation of L.J. Cryer, a key scorer and leader.

Challenges Ahead

Despite returning key players, Houston faces challenges integrating newcomers and maintaining the “Cougar Culture” that has defined their recent success. Analysts note that while the 2025-26 roster boasts more NBA-level talent on paper, the lack of experience with Houston’s system among transfers and freshmen could impact early-season chemistry.

Moreover, Uzan’s performance in the previous Final Four was scrutinized; some observers noted a lack of confidence and hesitation in critical moments. Yet, this experience could fuel his growth and determination to lead Houston deeper into March Madness.

Outlook: A Final Four Contender?

Houston’s combination of veteran leadership, defensive strength, and talented newcomers positions them as one of the nation’s elite teams. Uzan’s return is pivotal; his ability to control tempo, create shots, and anchor the defense will dictate Houston’s ceiling.

Coach Sampson, in his final contract years, is focused on maximizing this group’s potential: “I get so focused on the team and trying to figure out how to help them,” he said. The program’s culture, combined with the blend of experience and talent, suggests Houston is poised for another deep tournament run.

In sum, Milos Uzan is more than just a returning player he is the linchpin of Houston’s Final Four aspirations. If he can elevate his game and lead a cohesive unit, the Cougars have a legitimate shot at turning last year’s near-miss into championship glory.