KU Jayhawks Stunned 69-47 by Houston in Big 12 Semis

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- No. 14 Kansas fell flat against fifth-ranked Houston, losing 69-47 in the Phillips 66 Big 12 Tournament semifinals at T-Mobile Center on Friday, March 13. The Jayhawks, entering 23-10 overall and 12-6 in Big 12 play, managed just 25 points in the first half and 22 in the second, shot poorly throughout. Darryn Peterson led KU with 14 points, but Houston freshmen Kingston Flemings (21 points) and Chris Cenac Jr. (17 points, 14 rebounds) powered the Cougars to their second straight title game appearance against No. 2 Arizona.

Kansas built momentum earlier in the tournament by defeating TCU 75-62 in the quarterfinals, holding an 18-point lead with 12 minutes left at the downtown Kansas City arena. The victory over the Horned Frogs showcased KU's defense, but against Houston's elite unit -- which limited the Jayhawks to their season-low output -- the Rock Chalk faithful watched in dismay. T-Mobile Center, a Lawrence-to-KC pilgrimage site for generations of fans, echoed with frustration as KU trailed 33-25 at halftime.

For Kansas, coached by Bill Self, the loss ends a season of resilience amid injuries and a tough Big 12 slate, finishing 23-10 before NCAA Tournament selection Sunday. Houston's 28-5 mark and 14-4 conference record highlighted their dominance, holding KU to 47 points -- a defensive masterclass in the heart of hoops country. Lawrence Journal-World first noted the semifinal stakes, but KU's championship path now hinges on a strong NCAA bid from Allen Fieldhouse.