Syracuse Orange to Face No. 2 Houston Cougars in Vegas Showdown

Las Vegas, Nevada — The Syracuse Orange men’s basketball team will face the No. 2 Houston Cougars on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The game is part of the Players Era Festival, showcasing several of the top teams in the nation during Thanksgiving week. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. ET, and the matchup will be broadcast live on TNT.

Syracuse enters the contest with a perfect 4-0 record, but they have yet to face a significantly challenging opponent. Their most demanding game so far was a narrow victory against Monmouth, ranked 214th on Kempom, where the Orange won 78-73. J.J. Starling returned after a three-game injury absence, scoring 11 points, while Kiyan Anthony contributed seven points in 21 minutes off the bench.

The Orange will have a demanding schedule in Las Vegas, following their game against Houston with another against No. 24 Kansas on Tuesday. Syracuse aims to keep their winning streak alive while showcasing their skills against top-tier opponents.

Houston, fresh from a national championship appearance, also boasts an undefeated record of 5-0. In their previous game, the Cougars dominated Rider with a 91-45 victory. Freshmen Kingston Flemings and Chris Cenac Jr. emerged as key contributors alongside established players like Emanuel Sharp and Joseph Tugler.

The Cougars have been dominant on defense, allowing just 53.4 points per game, which ranks second nationally. They are also known for their efficiency, boasting a defensive rating of 89.2, placing them first in the KenPom efficiency ratings.

As both teams prepare for this matchup of undefeated squads, analysts have noted Houston as a 13.5-point favorite against Syracuse. The game promises to be a tight contest, showcasing the strengths of both defensive powerhouses.

Fans can tune in to watch the game live on TNT. Several streaming options are available for viewers looking to catch the action. As betting is restricted for in-state college teams in New York, resources for navigating betting are available for those interested.