San Antonio, Texas – Duke coach Jon Scheyer embarked on his coaching journey by challenging his team in a secret preseason scrimmage against the formidable Houston Cougars. With the guidance of Scheyer, who intentionally chose Kelvin Sampson’s team as his first opponent, Duke faced a tough test. Despite being 32 years younger than Sampson, Scheyer recognized the challenge the Cougars presented, particularly in defensive strategies.

The scrimmage took place on October 29, 2022, while the football Cougars secured a victory at TDECU Stadium, as Scheyer and Sampson engaged in a 45-minute conversation before the game. Although the outcome of the scrimmage was not the focus, it left a lasting impression on both coaches. Sampson commended Scheyer for his leadership and ability to steer Duke beyond the shadow of the legendary Coach K.

Reflecting on the physical intensity of the scrimmage, Duke guard Tyrese Proctor acknowledged the rigorous competition brought by the Cougars. Despite facing challenges, the experience served as a learning opportunity for both teams, leaving an imprint on Kellen Sampson, who is poised to succeed his father as the head coach of the Cougars in the future.

Scheyer’s approach to coaching Duke has been marked by authenticity and innovation, evident in the team’s distinctive style and presence. The Cougars and Blue Devils met again in a significant matchup last year, with Duke emerging victorious and advancing to the Final Four for the 17th time in the program’s history.

As Duke and Houston prepare to face off in the upcoming Final Four, the rematch symbolizes a continuation of their competitive rivalry. For Houston, the journey to prominence under Kelvin Sampson’s leadership has been transformative, revitalizing a program that once struggled with neglect and challenges.

Kelvin Sampson’s arrival at Houston in 2014 marked a turning point for the program, as he, alongside his family, embarked on a mission to restore the team’s reputation and culture. Lauren Sampson, Kelvin’s daughter, played a crucial role in the team’s revitalization efforts, demonstrating a commitment to rebuilding Houston basketball from the ground up.

The Sampson family’s dedication to Houston’s success has been pivotal in the program’s resurgence, culminating in multiple successful seasons and a record-breaking win in the Midwest Regional tournament. Through their collective effort and shared vision, the Sampsons have transformed Houston into a powerhouse in college basketball, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

As the Sampson legacy continues to unfold at Houston, the Final Four matchup against Duke represents a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence and a reminder of the transformative journey that has brought the Cougars to the national stage. The game serves as a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a shared passion for the game, embodying the Sampson family’s enduring legacy in college basketball.