The Cougars opened American Athletic Conference play strong as the team defeated the Tigers 75-65 on Sunday afternoon at Fertitta Center.
Both teams opened the game up hot offensively as the teams traded buckets throughout most of the first quarter. At about 2:30 minute mark remaining in the first quarter, the teams were tied at 16.
The Cougars finished the opening period strong. Sophomore Dymond Gladney, who had a team-high seven points in the quarter, hit a 3-pointer to put Houston up 19-16. Houston then capitalized on a Memphis turnover as junior Julia Blackshell-Fair converted a 3-point play via a layup and free-throw.