Rice Edges North Texas in Double Overtime Thriller in Houston

Rice fans in Houston witnessed a night they won’t soon forget as the Owls clawed out a dramatic double-overtime victory against North Texas. The conference battle delivered all the intensity fans could hope for, with clutch plays, momentum swings, and a finish that left Tudor Fieldhouse roaring.

The Owls leaned on gritty defense and late-game composure to secure the win, answering every North Texas run with poise. From the opening tip, both teams showed they were ready for a grind-it-out contest, but Rice’s resilience under pressure made the difference as the minutes stretched into a second overtime period.

The Turning Points

Rice stepped up in crucial moments, especially in the final minutes. The Owls held firm during a late North Texas surge, forcing tough shots and capitalizing on second-chance opportunities. Key buckets down the stretch and steady free-throw shooting sealed the deal.

The home crowd fueled the momentum. Tudor Fieldhouse grew louder with every defensive stop, giving Rice an edge as fatigue set in. By the time the second overtime arrived, the Owls had found another gear that North Texas couldn’t match.

Why It Matters

This win gives Rice a crucial conference boost and showcases the team’s tenacity as the season heats up. Close games can define a team’s identity, and the Owls proved they can outlast strong opponents in high-pressure situations.

For Houston sports fans, it’s another reminder that Rice athletics continues to deliver exciting, high-stakes competition right here at home.

What’s Next

Rice will look to build on this momentum as conference play continues. If the Owls can bottle this level of intensity, they’ll be a tough matchup for anyone on their schedule. Houston fans should keep a close eye—this team is trending upward.

This article is a summary of reporting by Rice University Athletics. Read the full story here.