2026 Men’s March Madness First Four: Scores, Start Times, Live Updates

Houston heads into its NCAA Tournament opener against Idaho at Paycom Center on Thursday with a narrow, focused message. Assistant Emanuel Sharp stressed the team must concentrate on the Vandals and the task at hand.

Focus on the game

Sharp downplayed talk of returning to Houston for the South Regional semifinals. He said the team must win, improve and move forward one game at a time.

Houston will treat the matchup as a chance to get better. Sharp emphasized taking care of immediate responsibilities before looking ahead.

Sampson’s Oklahoma roots

Head coach Kelvin Sampson spent 1994 through 2006 coaching the Oklahoma Sooners. He led that program to the 2002 Final Four.

Sampson noted personal ties to Oklahoma City and Norman. His son Kellen and daughter Lauren, now on Houston’s staff, grew up in Norman and graduated from Oklahoma.

Family and loyalty

The coach said those years left a lasting impression on his family. He acknowledged an enduring affection for the Sooners while identifying with Houston.

Coverage and updates

The matchup at Paycom Center opens Houston’s tournament run against the Vandals. For fans following the 2026 Men’s March Madness First Four: Scores, Start Times, Live Updates, Filmogaz.com will provide timely information.

Expect focused play and careful preparation from Houston. The team insists the immediate game against Idaho is the priority.