The Cougars began the American Athletic Conference portion of the schedule with a strong 78-63 win over the Knights on Friday evening at Fertitta Center.
Houston and UCF began the game exchanging baskets until a quick 7-0 run saw the Cougars take an early 12-6 advantage.
Houston was able to keep that lead and expand it to as much as an 11-point edge in the first half when they led 26-15, but the Cougars were struck with an offensive cold-spell and the team went scoreless for 4:38 of game time.
During that span, the Knights went on a 12-0 run that saw them regain the lead momentarily at 27-26, but a free-throw from junior forward Fabian White Jr.