Houston's Emanuel Sharp Breaks 3-Point Record in Underrated Final Season

The veteran guard is the heartbeat of the third-ranked Cougars, providing steady leadership and defense as the team's younger stars shine.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Emanuel Sharp, a senior guard for the University of Houston, recently broke the school's career 3-point record during a win over Utah. Sharp, who has been playing basketball since he was a toddler thanks to his professional hooper parents, is described as one of the most underrated players in college basketball. He provides crucial defense and leadership for the third-ranked Cougars, allowing younger stars like Kingston Flemings and Chris Cenac Jr. to thrive. Sharp's journey has been marked by unwavering support from his mother, Justine Ellison Sharp, who he embraced in a long hug after breaking the record.

Why it matters

Sharp's record-breaking performance and steady play highlight his value as an unsung leader for a top-ranked Houston team. In an era when the spotlight often shines brightest on the newest crop of talented freshmen, Sharp's story exemplifies the importance of veteran players who have paid their dues and now provide the foundation for their teams' success.

The details

In the win over Utah, Sharp hit eight 3-pointers, including six in a dazzling eight-minute stretch in the first half, to break the school's career 3-point record previously held by Marcus Sasser. Sharp also played a crucial two-way role in Houston's earlier win over BYU, contributing 14 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds while playing lockdown defense.

  • On February 7, 2026, Sharp broke the University of Houston's career 3-point record.
  • On February 4, 2026, Sharp helped lead Houston to a win over BYU as part of a tough Big 12 road swing.

The players

Emanuel Sharp

A senior guard for the University of Houston who has been playing basketball since he was a toddler. He is described as one of the most underrated players in college basketball, providing crucial defense and leadership for the third-ranked Cougars.

Justine Ellison Sharp

Emanuel Sharp's mother, who is his "biggest fan and biggest supporter." She made a point to attend many of his games this season and was overjoyed when he broke the 3-point record.

Kelvin Sampson

The head coach of the University of Houston men's basketball team, who has praised Sharp's toughness, attitude, and leadership as crucial to the team's success.

Marcus Sasser

The former University of Houston player whose career 3-point record was broken by Emanuel Sharp.

Quannas White

A former University of Houston assistant coach who helped develop Sharp's game and confidence. White is now the head coach at the University of Louisiana.

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What they’re saying

“To me he's one of the most underrated players in the country. In some ways, Emanuel Sharp is as much the heartbeat of the program as anybody on that roster.”

— Fran Fraschilla, ESPN Analyst (PaperCity)

“His teams win 30 games every year he's here... It's not because of his threes. It's because of his toughness. That's why we recruited him. But his heart. And his attitude. It brings that out.”

— Kelvin Sampson, University of Houston Head Coach (PaperCity)

“Guys like Emanuel Sharp are what make college basketball awesome. They did their time. They waited their turn. Those are the guys that when you get to March, they never disappoint you.”

— Kellen Sampson, University of Houston Assistant Coach (PaperCity)

What’s next

The University of Houston will play Kansas State on Saturday, February 18, 2026 at 3 pm as they continue their push for a Big 12 title three-peat.

The takeaway

Emanuel Sharp's journey from diapers to becoming the University of Houston's career 3-point leader exemplifies the value of veteran players who have paid their dues and now provide steady leadership and defense for their teams. In an era when the spotlight often shines brightest on talented freshmen, Sharp's story is a reminder of the unsung heroes who make college basketball great.