Iowa State upsets No. 3 Houston in top-10 showdown

Cyclones hand Cougars their first loss of the season in a battle of top-ranked teams.

Feb. 18, 2026 at 3:23pm

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In a highly anticipated top-10 matchup, the Iowa State Cyclones defeated the previously unbeaten and 3rd-ranked Houston Cougars 78-72 on Monday night at Hilton Coliseum. The victory marked a statement win for the Cyclones, who improved to 18-5 on the season and solidified their standing as one of the top teams in the country.

Why it matters

This game featured two of the best teams in college basketball this season, with Houston ranked 3rd in the nation and Iowa State 8th. The outcome will have major implications for the national rankings and tournament seeding as we approach March Madness.

The details

Iowa State was led by senior guard Tyrese Hunter, who scored a game-high 25 points and dished out 7 assists. The Cyclones shot 48% from the field and held Houston to just 40% shooting on the night. Houston's star player, Marcus Sasser, was limited to 15 points on 5-of-15 shooting.

  • The game was played on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Tyrese Hunter

A senior guard for the Iowa State Cyclones who scored a game-high 25 points and had 7 assists in the win.

Marcus Sasser

The star player for the Houston Cougars, who was held to 15 points on 5-of-15 shooting in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“That was a huge win for our program. Our guys really stepped up against one of the best teams in the country.”

— T.J. Otzelberger, Iowa State Head Coach (CBS Sports)

“We just couldn't get into a rhythm offensively tonight. Iowa State did a great job of taking us out of what we wanted to do.”

— Kelvin Sampson, Houston Head Coach (CBS Sports)

What’s next

Iowa State will look to build on this signature win as they continue their push towards a high NCAA Tournament seed. Houston will try to bounce back from their first loss of the season when they return home to face a tough Cincinnati team this weekend.

The takeaway

This game showcased the depth and talent of the college basketball landscape this season, with two top-10 teams battling it out in an intense and highly competitive matchup. Iowa State's victory over the previously unbeaten Cougars solidifies their status as an elite team and a legitimate national title contender.