In the exciting world of college basketball, the journey to the Final Four is a dream for every team. For the Houston Cougars, this journey has been both glorious and filled with anticipation. Let's take a deep dive into how many times Houston has made it to the Final Four.
A Look at Houston's Final Four Appearances
Including the 2024 - 25 season, Houston has had the honor of making the Final Four seven times. This remarkable achievement showcases the Cougars' consistent excellence and competitiveness in the NCAA tournament.
The Early Glory Days
The Cougars first made a mark in the national semifinals by going to back - to - back Final Fours in 1967 and ’68. These early appearances set the stage for what was to come and established Houston as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball.
The “Phi Slama Jama” Era
Houston had an incredibly successful run in the early 1980s, making it to three consecutive Final Fours in 1982, ’83, and ’84. This period was known as the “Phi Slama Jama” era, led by future hall of famers Clyde Drexler and Hakeem Olajuwon. In 1983, they reached the national championship game but unfortunately lost to N.C. State 54 - 52. Olajuwon then led the team back to the title game in 1984, only to be defeated by a Georgetown team led by superstar Patrick Ewing with a score of 84 - 75.
The Long Drought and Recent Resurgence
After the 1984 season, there was a long dry spell. It took a staggering 36 seasons before the Cougars could make it out of the second weekend of the NCAA tournament again. However, head coach Kelvin Sampson breathed new life into the program. He led Houston back to the Final Four in 2021, and then again in 2025. In the 2024 - 25 season, Sampson led the team to a remarkable 34 - 4 record and a 19 - 1 mark in conference play, entering the NCAA tournament as a no. 1 seed.
Houston's Overall NCAA Tournament Resume
Houston's basketball program has an impressive history in the NCAA tournament beyond just its Final Four appearances. The Cougars have made it to the NCAA tournament a total of 26 times. They have reached the Sweet 16 a remarkable 16 times and the Elite Eight 7 times. Despite their numerous trips to the Final Four, they have unfortunately reached the national championship game just twice, in 1983 and 1984, and came up short both times.
Conclusion
The Houston Cougars' basketball journey has been a captivating one. With seven Final Four appearances, they have shown their mettle on the national stage. While the quest for a national championship continues, their rich history and recent resurgence under Coach Sampson give fans hope for the future. Whether you're a die - hard Houston fan or just a lover of college basketball, the Cougars' story in the NCAA tournament is one that is sure to be remembered for years to come.