Rice Opens Key Homestand in Houston Against Florida Atlantic

Rice men’s basketball is gearing up for one of its most important weeks of the season as the Owls launch a home stretch at Tudor Fieldhouse in Houston. The opener brings a major challenge: a visit from Florida Atlantic, last year’s Final Four Cinderella and a powerhouse in the American Athletic Conference.

Rice enters the homestand eager to reset its trajectory and capitalize on home-court energy. After battling through the early conference slate, the Owls look to use this series of games to build momentum, sharpen their identity, and reestablish consistency.

Owls Ready for the Spotlight

Florida Atlantic arrives with national recognition, giving Rice an opportunity to test itself against one of the AAC’s premier programs. The matchup should light up Tudor Fieldhouse, where Rice has shown flashes of high-powered offense and improved ball movement.

Head coach Scott Pera has emphasized defensive discipline and tempo control as keys to competing with the Owls of FAU—known for their deep rotations, guard-heavy scoring, and fast-paced attack. Rice counters with a roster capable of knocking down threes and pushing transition, including several veterans who have thrived in big moments.

Why This Homestand Matters

With a demanding AAC schedule, protecting home court is crucial. Rice can use this stretch to climb the standings, strengthen its postseason outlook, and build confidence for the road ahead. Hosting a high-profile opponent like FAU also energizes the fan base and helps showcase what Rice basketball is building in Houston.

For students, alumni, and Houston sports fans, this run of home games offers a chance to pack Tudor Fieldhouse and create a true home-court advantage during the heart of conference play.

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