The Houston Cougars defeated the Gonzaga Bulldogs 81-76 in the NCAA Tournament second round, halting Gonzaga's nine-year Sweet 16 streak. Houston, led by LJ Cryer's 30 points, moves forward to their sixth straight regional semifinal. A crucial block by Ja’Vier Francis sealed the win, as Gonzaga's rally fell short, concluding their season with a 26-9 record.