Part 5/7:
The intensity remained high as both teams battled on defense. Houston's reputation for causing turnovers was on full display, leading to fast-break opportunities, while Colorado tried to solve the Cougars' defensive schemes through resilient ball movement. The tactical adjustment of switching to a zone defense was a gamble for Colorado, highlighting their need to adapt under pressure.
However, Houston’s precision shooting and aggressive rebounding often thwarted Colorado's efforts to mount a comeback. A notable play came from Houston's Malik Wilson, who pulled down crucial rebounds and added points in critical moments, reflecting the Cougars’ emphasis on team-oriented basketball.