Houston Cougars comeback falls short; lose to Owls

Posted: January 28, 2012 -- 11:13 p.m. CT.

HOUSTON, TX (Hofheinz Pavilion) -- The Houston Cougars did not shoot the basketball well Saturday afternoon. Heck, the Cougars lost to the Rice Owls 58-50 inside Hofheinz Pavilion in front of 1056 fans. However, the Houston Cougars may have grown up and become a team today.

The Cougars (2-17 overall, 1-6 in Conference USA) shot 30.8% (8 for 26) in the first half and 30.3% (10 for 33); but, during the final nine minutes of the second half, the Coogs competed.

The Cougars trailed the Owls (11-10, 5-3) 30-22 at halftime and 50-30 in the second half; but, Coach Buchanan was pleased his team did not give up.

"I thought we grew up today," Buchanan said.

Buchanan continued, "I thought we really, really showed a nice sense of urgency. I thought we fought back today in a way we haven't fought back all year. My hope is the players are finally being in and understanding that we've got to have a greater sense urgency; and, the sense of urgency has got to come quicker."

The Cougars clawed their way back into the game with an 11-0 run; and, in fact, had two opportunities to get even closer but missed free throws slowed the momentum.

"We had it cut to a two possession game; and, we missed one, if not two, front ends of the bonus to cut into a one possession game," Buchanan lamented. "We've got to do a better job of making our free throws."

Freshman Amanda Lawson overcame six turnovers and pushed herself and produced 10 points and 12 rebounds. Freshman Terran Alford added 10 points (5 for 5 from the field) and eight rebounds. Alford finally looked comfortable with her back to the basket.

Houston seniors Roxana Button (3 for 19) and Michelle White (2 for 13) struggled to make shots the entire game; but, they contributed in other ways with 13 combined rebounds, 4 steals, and 3 assists.

"Overall, I'm far from satisfied," Buchanan admitted. "This is certainly not where we want to be; but, I'm better off, mentally, in my heart today knowing we put ourselves in a position to win the basketball game."

The Cougars return to the court Thursday, February and, with a home game versus SMU.

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