The national runner-up Houston Cougars enter the 2025-26 college basketball season with high expectations, boasting a blend of experienced veterans and fired-up newcomers.

Head coach Kelvin Sampson, who has turned Houston into a perennial contender in the Big 12 and beyond, is carefully monitoring the development of two key frontcourt players: sophomore Joseph “Jojo” Tugler and five-star freshman Chris Cenac Jr.

Kelvin Sampson Anxious to See More From Joseph Tugler

Tugler, a sophomore forward/center, made a significant impact as a freshman, appearing in all 34 games and starting the last 33. His defensive presence was elite, finishing 11th nationally in total blocks (77) and second in the Big 12 with 1.9 blocks per game. He also contributed 5.9 rebounds per contest, showcasing his ability to anchor the paint.

Houston Cougars big man Joseph Tugler shared a health update after undergoing offseason surgery on his right foot.

He’s not sure when he’ll be 100%, but in the mean time he has been working on free throw shooting. He’s been walking without any assistance. pic.twitter.com/qEuG9wcHQ6

— Pawd Slama Jama (@PawdSlamaJama) August 1, 2025

Despite the production, Sampson admitted he is “anxious” to see more growth from Tugler, particularly on the offensive end. The Houston coach highlighted how the Cougars’ offensive rhythm often relied on running actions through Tugler, especially in games like the matchup against Florida.

“In the Florida game, Jojo played just over 15 minutes, and I thought that affected us offensively as much as it did defensively,” Sampson explained on the “Inside College Basketball Now” podcast with CBS analyst Jon Rothstein.

“LJ [Cryer] got a lot of his shots off playing through Jojo in our boom and zoom actions. I’m anxious to see us play through him a little more this season.”

By utilizing Tugler’s passing and decision-making from the five spot, Sampson believes Houston can diversify its half-court sets and maximize offensive flow.

Freshman Star Chris Cenac Jr. Still a Work in Progress

While Tugler is expected to take the next step in his sophomore campaign, much of the offseason buzz has surrounded Chris Cenac Jr., one of the highest-rated recruits in Houston basketball history.

Multiple outlets ranked the 6’10” forward/center as high as No. 6 overall nationally, choosing Houston over a who’s who of powerhouse programs, including Kentucky, Texas, Baylor, and Arkansas.

Physically, Cenac brings elite tools: a 7’3″ wingspan, 230-pound frame, and rare mobility for his size. He has the versatility to defend multiple positions and the athleticism to finish plays above the rim. However, Sampson emphasized that the freshman still has plenty of areas to refine.

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“Chris has to improve in the areas of playing the four spot,” Sampson noted. “When you’re 6’10 or 6’11, you’ve probably played center your whole life. We’re trying to develop him more at the four so he can play alongside Jojo.”

Cenac’s long-term upside is undeniable, but questions remain about his consistency, motor, and assertiveness. Sampson and his staff will be working to ensure his natural gifts translate into reliable production at the Big 12 level.

For Houston to contend this season, they’ll need Tugler to become a more versatile offensive weapon and Cenac to develop into a dependable rotation piece. Sampson’s track record suggests that both players are in good hands, as Houston looks to blend its veteran core with elite young talent in pursuit of another deep March run.