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ABC13 Weather Watch for the possibility of strong to severe storms Saturday

ABC13 Houston
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ABC13 Weather Watch for the possibility of strong to severe storms Saturday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — ABC13 Weather Watch has been issued for Saturday as a squall line could produce severe weather. Damaging winds, hail and a brief isolated tornado will be possible.

We’ll get to enjoy some delightful weather most of Thursday, but we’ll start the day with areas of dense fog mainly along the coast. Temperatures will warm rapidly in the the sunshine. Highs will top out around the 80 degree mark with light and variable winds.

What should we expect with the next storm system arriving Saturday?

It will initially bring in cloudy, breezy, and humid conditions. A passing shower is possible at any time during the day, but the thunderstorm chances will likely hold off until the evening hours. At this time we cannot rule out severe weather in our part of Texas. Keep that in mind for any Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras plans. If you have outdoor plans for Saturday, we advise you to monitor the forecast this week while drawing up a “plan B’ just in case.

What’s the expected impact for the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade in Galveston Saturday?

Sea fog and showers are possible during the parade, and while we cannot rule out thunderstorms, the current timing favors any thunderstorm activity to hold off until late in the night for Galveston. Since the storm timing is not yet set in stone, we would plan for a damp and humid day on the island with the chance for thunderstorms around parade time.

Could we get another freeze this season?

Sure, but we likely have to wait until near the end of February or beginning of March for our next chance of freezing weather if it were to occur. On average, Houston’s last freeze occurs around Valentine’s Day.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

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This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Reaching Houston’s Hispanic Community: 10 Communication Strategies That Work

Que Onda Editorial
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Reaching Houston’s Hispanic Community: 10 Communication Strategies That Work

Reaching Houston’s Hispanic Community: 10 Communication Strategies That Work

You just spent weeks crafting ads that barely moved the needle with Houston Latino consumers. That’s because reaching the Houston Hispanic market takes more than translation—it demands a deep understanding of local culture, language preferences, and neighborhood dynamics. In this post, you’ll find 10 communication strategies proven to connect with Houston’s diverse Hispanic audiences and boost your impact through targeted, culturally grounded messaging. For more insights, check out this article.

Engaging Houston’s Hispanic Market

Successfully engaging Houston’s Hispanic market requires a deeper understanding and a thoughtful approach. Let’s explore key strategies to enhance your connection with this vibrant community.

Understanding Audience Segmentation

To truly connect with Houston Latino consumers, you must understand who you’re talking to. The Hispanic community in Houston is diverse, with varying backgrounds, interests, and preferences. Start by segmenting your audience based on factors like age, language preference, and cultural background. This allows you to tailor your message, ensuring it resonates with each group.

Consider this: a Spanish-speaking family from Mexico may respond differently to your message than a bilingual millennial of Cuban descent. By understanding these differences, you can craft messages that speak directly to each group’s unique experiences and needs. This segmentation helps you develop targeted campaigns, increasing your chances of success in Hispanic marketing in Houston.

Language Strategy for Hispanic Audiences

Language is a powerful connector. When reaching out to Houston Latino consumers, using the right language is crucial. But it’s not just about whether to use English or Spanish. It’s about knowing when to use each, or when to blend both in bilingual advertising Houston campaigns.

For example, Spanish advertising Houston efforts can capture the attention of older generations or recent immigrants who feel more comfortable in Spanish. Conversely, younger, bilingual audiences might appreciate a mix of both languages, reflecting their everyday conversations. To nail your language strategy, consider your audience’s media consumption habits and adjust your messaging accordingly, making it accessible and appealing to all segments.

Culturally Resonant Storytelling

Once you’ve got the language down, it’s time to bring your message to life through storytelling. Stories that reflect the community’s values and experiences can create an emotional connection.

Reflecting Houston’s Diverse Heritage

Houston is a tapestry of cultures, with a rich Hispanic heritage woven throughout. Reflecting this diversity in your storytelling is key to making a genuine connection. Think about incorporating elements of local culture, traditions, and history into your narratives.

For instance, sharing stories about local Hispanic heroes or community events can resonate deeply. It shows that your brand values and acknowledges the community’s contributions. When your audience sees themselves in your stories, it builds trust and fosters a stronger connection. Aim to celebrate this diversity in your storytelling, and your brand will stand out in the Houston Hispanic market.

Neighborhood-Level Targeting Techniques

Houston’s neighborhoods each have their own unique vibe and community spirit. Targeting your marketing efforts at the neighborhood level can be highly effective. Whether it’s the vibrant art scene in the East End or the bustling markets in Gulfton, each area offers distinct opportunities for engagement.

Consider running campaigns that speak to local events or sponsorships that support neighborhood activities. This localized approach not only shows your brand’s investment in the community but also enhances brand visibility among Houston neighborhood targeting. By engaging at this level, you build meaningful relationships with residents, turning them into loyal customers.

Building Trust with Community Partnerships

Beyond storytelling and language, building trust through partnerships is essential. Collaborating with local organizations can amplify your efforts.

Event Sponsorship and Local Collaborations

Sponsoring events and collaborating with local organizations can cement your brand’s presence in the community. Events are a great way to engage directly with your audience. Whether it’s a cultural festival or a local sports event, your presence shows support and builds goodwill.

Collaborating with trusted local figures or organizations can also boost your brand’s credibility. When you partner with those who already have the community’s trust, their endorsement can introduce your brand to new audiences. This strategy strengthens community marketing Houston by aligning your brand with local values.

Conversational Touchpoints and Rapid Response

Engaging with the community doesn’t end with events. It extends to everyday interactions. Establish conversational touchpoints through social media or other direct communication channels. This openness invites dialogue, showing that your brand is approachable and responsive.

In addition, being quick to address concerns or feedback demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction. A rapid response to customer queries or issues can turn a negative experience into a positive one, enhancing your brand’s reputation among Houston Latino consumers.

By implementing these strategies, you position your brand as a trusted partner within the Hispanic community. Embrace these insights to create meaningful connections and make a lasting impact.

Houston Education Resource Guide for Hispanic Families: Enrollment, Programs, and Support

Que Onda Editorial
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Houston Education Resource Guide for Hispanic Families: Enrollment, Programs, and Support

Houston Education Resource Guide for Hispanic Families: Enrollment, Programs, and Support

Navigating Houston education resources can feel like a maze for Hispanic families trying to enroll kids, find bilingual programs, or get help with tutoring and college prep. You need clear steps, deadlines, and local support that speak your language and respect your culture. This guide breaks down HISD enrollment, school choice, special education, and more—everything your family needs to succeed in Houston schools right now. Visit this resource for more information.

Navigating HISD Enrollment

Steps for HISD Enrollment

Let’s get started on the path to a successful school year. First, you’ll need to gather the essential documents. This involves proof of residency, your child’s birth certificate, and immunization records. Next, visit the HISD website to access the enrollment forms. Fill these out carefully and submit them online or in person at your child’s school. Remember, meeting the deadlines is crucial to ensure your child gets a spot in the school of your choice.

Getting these steps right can set your child on a path to academic success. Should you need more guidance, HISD provides resources and support specifically for Hispanic families. They are there to help you understand the process and answer any questions you might have.

School Choice and Magnet Schools

Houston offers a wealth of educational options, including magnet schools. What are magnet schools? They focus on specialized themes such as STEM or the arts. Your child can apply based on their interests and talents. It’s a great way to tailor education to your child’s strengths.

To explore these options, start by researching the programs offered at each magnet school. Visit the schools, talk to teachers, and ask about their curriculum. You might be surprised at the unique opportunities available. Keep an eye on application deadlines, as competition for these spots can be fierce.

Key Documents and Deadlines

To ensure a smooth enrollment, having the right documents is vital. Make a checklist: proof of residency, birth certificate, and immunization records. Keep these documents updated and accessible.

Deadlines differ for each school and program, so mark your calendar. Missing a deadline could mean waiting another year. HISD’s website is a reliable source for deadline information, or you can contact the schools directly. Staying organized with documents and deadlines will save you stress and keep your child’s education on track.

Bilingual and Special Education Services

Navigating education means understanding the services available, including bilingual support and special education. These services ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive.

Dual Language Programs in Houston

Dual language programs are a fantastic way for students to become fluent in both English and Spanish. These programs emphasize maintaining cultural heritage while gaining new language skills. Many schools in Houston offer dual language programs, providing a bilingual environment that benefits academic and social development.

Visit schools to learn more about their programs. Speak with teachers and administrators about curriculum and success stories. Dual language programs not only help in language acquisition but also in cultural appreciation, giving your child a unique advantage.

ESL Programs and Support

If your child is learning English as a second language, ESL programs are crucial. These programs focus on building English proficiency while supporting academic progress in other subjects. Houston schools have a range of ESL services tailored to different needs.

Connect with your child’s school to explore their ESL offerings. Teachers can provide insights into the program specifics and how they can support your child’s learning journey. Remember, these programs are there to help your child succeed in an English-speaking environment.

Special Education Processes

For children needing special education services, knowing the process is key. Schools in Houston are committed to providing customized learning plans to meet individual needs. From assessments to individualized education programs (IEPs), the process is designed to support your child’s unique learning journey.

Engage with your child’s school to understand the evaluation process. Ask questions and involve yourself in planning and assessments. Your involvement ensures your child receives the best support tailored to their needs.

After-School and College Prep Resources

Education extends beyond the classroom, with after-school and college prep resources playing a significant role in your child’s development.

After-School Programs and Tutoring

After-school programs in Houston offer a safe environment for learning and growth. Activities range from arts to STEM, providing enrichment beyond the school day. Tutoring is also available for subjects where your child might need extra help.

Explore local community centers and schools for program options. These resources are designed to enhance your child’s skills and interests, making learning enjoyable and engaging.

College and Career Readiness Houston

Preparing for college starts early. Houston offers programs focused on college and career readiness, helping students plan their futures. From college visits to career counseling, these programs are vital in guiding students through post-secondary options.

Engage with these resources to set your child on a successful path. Encourage them to explore different careers and colleges, and support them in building a strong academic foundation.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Hispanic Students

Financial aid and scholarships can make college more accessible. Numerous scholarships are aimed at Hispanic students, helping alleviate financial burdens. Resources like FAFSA and local scholarships are available to support your child’s educational dreams.

Begin researching scholarships early. Websites and school counselors can provide information on available options. Encourage your child to apply to as many scholarships as possible, as this can significantly reduce college costs.

This guide equips you with the essential resources to navigate the education system in Houston. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your child receives the best education and opportunities available. For additional support, explore Latinos for Education, Children’s Museum Houston, Institute of Hispanic Culture of Houston, and LNESC Houston.

How Houston’s Hispanic Cultural Festivals Build Community Pride and Belonging

Que Onda Editorial
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How Houston’s Hispanic Cultural Festivals Build Community Pride and Belonging

How Houston’s Hispanic Cultural Festivals Build Community Pride and Belonging

Houston’s Hispanic cultural festivals do more than fill calendars—they build deep roots of community pride that you can feel in every parade and gathering. These events shine a spotlight on our heritage, bringing neighbors together to celebrate identity and shared stories. In this post, you’ll see how these festivals strengthen local bonds and how Que Onda Magazine keeps you connected with the best Houston Latino community pride moments. For more information about events, check out Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations in Houston.

Strengthening Identity and Belonging

Houston’s Hispanic cultural festivals are not just events; they’re vital threads in the rich tapestry of our community’s identity. They create spaces where cultural pride takes center stage.

Building Cultural Pride in Houston

In Houston, cultural pride is celebrated with vibrant festivals that bring neighborhoods to life. Picture this: streets alive with music, dancers in traditional attire, and the aroma of delicious foods. These events are more than entertainment—they’re a tribute to our roots. Participating in these festivals is a way to embrace your heritage while connecting with others who share similar backgrounds. It’s a moment to stand tall, knowing your culture is valued and celebrated right here in your city.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is a special time in Houston, filled with events that honor Hispanic culture and contributions. From parades to art exhibitions, there’s something for everyone. Each event highlights different aspects of Hispanic culture, offering you a chance to learn and appreciate. It’s not just about attending; it’s about engaging, understanding, and feeling the pride of being part of the Houston Latino community. Check out the Hispanic Heritage Month events and join in the celebrations.

Sharing Stories and Traditions

Stories and traditions are the heartbeats of our community. Festivals provide an opportunity to share these with the broader Houston population. Whether it’s through storytelling sessions or cultural displays, these events keep traditions alive. You get to see, hear, and experience the richness of Hispanic culture firsthand. It’s a chance to pass down stories and traditions to younger generations, ensuring they remain vibrant and relevant for years to come.

Enhancing Visibility and Connections

Festivals do more than celebrate—they connect people. They enhance visibility and foster connections, weaving a stronger community fabric.

Houston Parade and Festival Guide

Navigating the vibrant scene of Houston’s parades and festivals can be exciting. With so many events happening, a guide is your best friend. It helps you discover where and when the next big celebration is happening. From the colorful floats in the parades to the lively performances at festivals, these guides keep you informed. They ensure you never miss an opportunity to engage with your community and experience the pride of being Hispanic in Houston. The Houston parade and festival guide is a great resource to start planning your outings.

Family-Friendly Events in Houston

Looking for events the whole family can enjoy? Houston offers a plethora of family-friendly Hispanic cultural festivals. These events are perfect for a day out with the kids, offering activities that are both fun and educational. Children can learn about their heritage through art, music, and interactive displays. It’s about creating memories and instilling a sense of pride in their cultural identity from a young age. These events are not only entertaining but also a great way to bond with family and friends.

Local Hispanic News and Media

Staying informed about local events and news is crucial. ¡Que Onda Magazine! serves as a key resource for the Hispanic community, providing timely updates and coverage of cultural events. It’s more than just news; it’s about staying connected and informed about what matters most to you. Whether it’s a recap of a recent festival or a spotlight on upcoming events, you can rely on ¡Que Onda Magazine! for comprehensive coverage and insights into the Hispanic community in Houston.

Getting Involved and Staying Informed

Your involvement in the community doesn’t end at attending events. There’s so much more you can do to stay connected and informed.

Houston Community Events Calendar

A calendar filled with community events is your ticket to staying engaged. It’s not just about knowing when events happen, but also about planning to be part of them. From cultural festivals to community meetings, having a calendar ensures you’re always in the loop. It helps you prioritize and make the most of the vibrant cultural scene Houston offers. Keep an eye on the Houston community events calendar to stay updated.

Advertise to Hispanic Audience Houston

For businesses and organizations, reaching out to the Hispanic audience can be incredibly rewarding. With ¡Que Onda Magazine!, you have a platform that connects you to a community that values cultural relevance. Advertising in this space means you’re not just reaching consumers; you’re engaging with a community that appreciates authenticity and cultural resonance. It’s about building relationships and understanding your audience on a deeper level.

Submit Your Stories and Events

Your stories and events are what make the community vibrant. Sharing them with wider audiences amplifies their impact. ¡Que Onda Magazine! encourages you to submit your stories, events, and experiences. It’s an invitation to contribute to the ongoing narrative of the Hispanic community in Houston. By sharing, you help foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our rich cultural heritage. Let your voice be heard and your stories be shared.

By engaging in these festivals and sharing your stories, you contribute to a thriving community where Hispanic culture is celebrated and cherished. Whether you’re participating in a parade, enjoying a family-friendly event, or sharing your story through ¡Que Onda Magazine!, you’re part of something bigger. Celebrate your culture, connect with your community, and keep the spirit of pride alive in Houston.

Air Canada Cancels Flights to Cuba Amid Aviation Fuel Shortage

Que Onda Editorial
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Air Canada Cancels Flights to Cuba Amid Aviation Fuel Shortage

Air Canada has suspended all flights to Cuba after Cuban authorities warned that aviation fuel would be unavailable at the country’s major airports, leaving thousands of travelers stranded and raising concerns about the island nation’s worsening energy crisis.

The airline said it will operate empty “ferry flights” southbound over the coming days to return roughly 3,000 Canadian travelers currently in Cuba. Air Transat and other carriers have said they are exploring alternative refueling options or rerouting flights, though disruptions are expected to continue.

Cuba’s aviation fuel shortage, which includes the country’s main international gateway in Havana, is expected to last at least until March 11. Officials cited a national energy crisis exacerbated by U.S.-imposed restrictions on oil imports, which have limited the island’s access to fuel from Venezuela and other suppliers.

The shortage has forced airlines to reconsider operations, as planes require refueling at their destination to return safely. Canadian travel officials have updated advisories, warning visitors of potential flight cancellations and other disruptions.

Tourism, a key source of foreign revenue for Cuba, is being affected by flight cancellations, hotel closures, and reduced services as the government attempts to conserve limited fuel supplies. Observers say the crisis underscores the broader impact of Cuba’s energy constraints on the economy and international travel.

Air Canada said passengers affected by the cancellations are being contacted and offered refunds or rebooking options. The airline emphasized that safety and compliance with fuel regulations remain the top priorities.

U.S. Says It Opposes Israeli Moves Toward Annexation in West Bank

Que Onda Editorial
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U.S. Says It Opposes Israeli Moves Toward Annexation in West Bank

The United States has reiterated its opposition to Israeli efforts that could amount to the annexation of parts of the occupied West Bank, warning that such moves risk undermining regional stability and prospects for peace.

A White House official said President Donald Trump opposes formal annexation, even as Israel’s government advances measures that expand Israeli authority over West Bank territory. The official said the administration believes unilateral actions could complicate long-standing U.S. goals of preserving stability and keeping open the possibility of a negotiated settlement between Israelis and Palestinians.

Israel’s security cabinet recently approved steps that increase Israeli control in parts of the West Bank, including changes affecting land administration and enforcement powers in areas where the Palestinian Authority has limited governance. Critics, including Palestinian officials and international observers, say the measures amount to a de facto annexation of territory captured by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war.

The Israeli government has defended the actions as administrative and security-related, arguing they are necessary to protect Israeli citizens and maintain order. Palestinian leaders, however, say the moves further entrench Israel’s occupation and weaken hopes for a future Palestinian state.

Reaction to the developments has been swift across the region. Several Arab nations, including Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, condemned the Israeli decisions, saying they violate international law and threaten regional peace. European governments and United Nations officials also warned that expanding Israeli control over the West Bank could further erode the viability of a two-state solution.

The West Bank is home to about 3 million Palestinians and roughly 500,000 Israeli settlers living in communities considered illegal under international law, a designation Israel disputes. Previous U.S. administrations have opposed annexation, though Washington’s position has shifted at times over settlement policy and Israel’s claims to the territory.

The latest U.S. statement highlights the delicate balance the administration faces as it seeks to maintain close ties with Israel while responding to growing international concern over actions seen as altering the status of the West Bank without negotiations.

For now, U.S. officials say they continue to urge restraint and dialogue, even as tensions over the territory remain high.

Measles Outbreak at Texas Immigration Detention Center Sparks Health, Policy Concerns

Edward Saenz
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Measles Outbreak at Texas Immigration Detention Center Sparks Health, Policy Concerns

Federal immigration officials confirmed multiple cases of measles at a large family detention center in South Texas, prompting quarantines and renewed scrutiny of health conditions inside U.S. immigration facilities.

At least two detainees tested positive for measles at the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, one of the nation’s largest immigration detention centers housing families with children. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said it restricted movement inside the facility and isolated those exposed in an effort to contain the highly contagious virus.

Measles spreads through airborne transmission and can linger in enclosed spaces for hours, making detention facilities particularly vulnerable, according to public health experts. The virus poses heightened risks to young children and unvaccinated individuals, both of whom are common in migrant populations arriving from regions with limited access to routine immunizations.

Advocates and medical professionals criticized ICE’s handling of the outbreak, arguing that the close-quarters environment, shared sleeping areas and limited medical staffing make effective containment difficult. Several advocacy groups called for the temporary release of detainees or their transfer to alternative housing to reduce the risk of further spread.

Rep. Tony Gonzales, a Republican whose district includes Dilley, defended the facility’s conditions following reports of the outbreak. Gonzales said he has visited the center multiple times and described it as clean and well-maintained, pushing back against claims that detainees are being held in unsafe conditions.

Local officials in South Texas raised additional concerns after learning that some detainees were transferred from Dilley to other cities during the outbreak. Mayors and county leaders said the transfers occurred with little advance notice, complicating public health coordination and raising fears of wider exposure.

ICE said it is working with local and state health authorities to monitor symptoms, verify vaccination histories when possible and provide medical care to those affected. The agency did not immediately say whether additional cases were suspected.

The outbreak comes amid broader national debate over immigration enforcement and detention practices, particularly involving families and children. Public health experts warn that outbreaks of measles — once considered eliminated in the United States — are becoming more frequent as vaccination rates decline and congregate settings increase the risk of transmission.

For now, health officials say containment efforts at the Dilley facility will remain in place as they monitor for new cases and assess whether further action is needed.

Texas AG Candidate Draws Fire With Call to Revoke Lawmaker’s Citizenship

Que Onda Editorial
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Texas AG Candidate Draws Fire With Call to Revoke Lawmaker’s Citizenship

A Republican candidate for Texas attorney general sparked sharp backlash Monday after saying he would seek to revoke the citizenship of a Democratic legislative leader if elected, a proposal legal experts called unprecedented and unfounded.

Aaron Reitz, one of four Republicans vying for the party’s nomination in the March 3 primary, said on the social platform X that he would work to have state Rep. Gene Wu “de-naturalized” — stripped of his U.S. citizenship — in response to a short, resurgent video clip of Wu discussing racial and political unity.

“As AG, I want to see [Rep. Gene Wu] de-naturalized,” Reitz wrote, asserting without evidence that the Houston Democrat had concealed “anti-American sentiment” during his citizenship application. “Wu is a subversive whose citizenship should be revoked.”

Wu, who leads House Democrats, declined to comment through a spokesperson.

Legal scholars said denaturalization is rare and governed by narrow federal standards, typically involving proven fraud during naturalization or membership in designated illegal organizations. Critics said Reitz’s remarks mix political rhetoric with a misunderstanding of U.S. law.

The controversy stems from a 2024 interview in which Wu discussed the political potential of diverse communities in Texas, a longer conversation that was widely recirculated this week in a 28-second excerpt. Opponents portrayed the comments as divisive, though fact-checking shows the clip omitted broader context in which Wu spoke about unity and systemic disadvantage rather than advocating animosity.

Numerous conservative figures quickly adopted the criticism. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, charged that “the Democrat party is built on bigotry,” while Attorney General Ken Paxton labeled Wu a “radical racist who hates millions of Texans just because they’re white.” U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, also a GOP candidate, called for Wu to resign from the state House.

Reitz, a former official in the Trump administration’s Justice Department, joins state Sens. Joan Huffman of Houston and Mayes Middleton of Galveston and Rep. Roy in the GOP primary for attorney general.

The episode underscores the intensifying partisan rancor ahead of the election as candidates vie for influence by staking out hard-line positions on immigration, identity and loyalty.

Flemings Takes Over in Second Half: Cougars Win 77–66

Michael Esparza
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Flemings Takes Over in Second Half: Cougars Win 77–66

AJ Dybantsa gave No. 8 Houston everything he had. It just wasn’t enough.

Dybantsa finished with 28 points on 9-of-14 shooting, and BYU briefly took the lead midway through the second half. But Kingston Flemings scored 11 of his 19 points after the break to fuel a decisive run that put the Cougars ahead for good, and No. 8 Houston walked out of the Marriott Center with a 77–66 road victory on Saturday night. Chris Cenac Jr. added 16 points, Emanuel Sharp contributed 14, and the Cougars improved to 21–2 overall and 9–1 in the Big 12 — staying within a game of No. 1 Arizona in the conference standings.

It was the kind of win that proves something. On the road, against a ranked opponent, in a hostile building. Houston found a way.

Houston Built the Lead, BYU Took It Back

The Cougars wasted no time asserting themselves. Houston scored the game’s first four points on second-chance opportunities, and back-to-back threes pushed the lead to 10–2 before the first media timeout. BYU answered with a Dybantsa pull-up and a Wright III three to cut it to 12–9, but Houston responded with a 7–2 spurt. The teams traded threes — Wright III and Richie Saunders connecting for BYU — before Houston went on a 9–0 run to push the lead to 28–18 with 5:55 left in the first half.

BYU chipped away and kept the deficit manageable heading into the break. In the second half, Wright III drove for a layup to give BYU its first lead since early in the game — 48–46 with 14:02 remaining — and the Marriott Center was as loud as it had been all night. The teams then traded baskets until Houston knotted the score at 52 heading into a media timeout with 11:39 left.

The Decisive Run

Out of the break, Houston didn’t look back. The Cougars pushed the margin to 59–54 with 8:38 remaining on a second-chance basket and a foul. BYU trimmed it to 63–58 with 5:07 left as Dybantsa converted a pair of free throws — then hit a pull-up three to close within five. But Flemings and company responded by scoring on four straight possessions, rebuilding the cushion to double digits and never letting BYU back in.

Houston shot 47.5% from the field on the night and closed the game at the free-throw line to secure the road victory. The Cougars’ second-half composure — grinding out stops and converting second-chance opportunities when the game was tightest — was the difference.

Dybantsa Was Brilliant, But BYU Left Points Behind

None of this diminishes what Dybantsa did. The freshman phenom finished with 28 points, five rebounds, and four assists, and he dragged BYU back into the game on multiple occasions with sheer individual brilliance. Robert Wright III was outstanding alongside him with 17 points on a perfect 3-of-3 night from three. Keba Keita anchored the interior defensively with three blocks, his seventh multi-block game of the season.

But the free-throw line was BYU’s undoing. The Cougars drew fouls consistently, and the Cougars in blue went just 16-of-28 from the stripe — leaving 12 points on the table in a game decided by 11. BYU also shot 39.6% from the field and 36.4% from three, numbers that aren’t going to beat a team of Houston’s caliber on any night.

“We can’t seem to finish the job, and that’s disappointing,” said BYU coach Kevin Young. “I did think they responded, which for me was going to be an ‘I’m going to learn a lot about our group’ type of game.”

What It Means

Four wins in a row. Four games out of first with a manageable schedule ahead. Houston is playing with the confidence of a program that has been here before and knows exactly how to close out road games in hostile environments. Cenac, Sharp, Flemings — all of them delivered when it mattered on Saturday night.

The Cougars return home Tuesday to host Utah at Fertitta Center. The Big 12 race with Arizona is very much alive.

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