Houston edged Auburn 73–72 in a dramatic showdown at Legacy Arena, with freshman Kingston Flemings sealing the win with a late block and 22 points.

In a clash of Final Four contenders, No. 1 Houston narrowly defeated No. 22 Auburn on November 16, 2025, in Birmingham, Alabama. The game lived up to its billing, with both teams showcasing elite talent, defensive grit, and clutch performances.

Kingston Flemings, Houston’s freshman point guard, was the star of the afternoon. He scored 22 points, including 18 in the first half, and delivered a critical block on Auburn’s final possession. His late-game layup gave Houston a 66–62 lead, and his defensive stop preserved the win.

Chris Cenac Jr. added 18 points and 9 rebounds for the Cougars before fouling out with under three minutes remaining. Despite losing Cenac and fellow starter Joseph Tugler to fouls, Houston held firm in the final seconds.

Auburn, led by Keyshawn Hall’s 20 points and 11 rebounds, mounted a furious comeback. Hall, however, exited with a foot injury after sinking two free throws with 4:14 left. Tahaad Pettiford contributed 15 points, and Kevin Overton added 13, but Auburn’s final inbound play with one second left was deflected at the rim.

Statistically, Houston shot 43% from the field compared to Auburn’s 39%. Auburn had a significant edge in free throws—33 attempts to Houston’s 12—but converted only 21, a missed opportunity in a one-point game.

The game marked Steven Pearl’s first loss as Auburn’s head coach following his father Bruce Pearl’s retirement. Despite the defeat, Auburn showed resilience and depth, nearly toppling the top-ranked Cougars.

Houston improves to 5–0, while Auburn falls to 4–1. Up next, Houston hosts Rider, and Auburn faces Jackson State.