Houston Cougars and others face a crossroads as the NCAA considers allowing Charles Bediako to return to Alabama after NBA draft attempts. Should Houston chase similar returning players, or stick to building through elite high school talent and transfer targets? Parker Ainsworth argues for the latter, breaking down why embracing the Bediako trend could hurt college basketball’s competitive balance.

Recruiting heats up with five-star wing Caleb Holt’s decision looming—will Houston secure this top prospect, or turn to the transfer portal to bridge future roster gaps? Key topics include Houston’s 2026 recruiting class, prospects like Ikenna Alozie and Arafan Diane, and the squad’s pivotal showdown against Texas Tech, with major Big 12 title implications. Can Houston start to separate from the pack and claim conference dominance? Don’t miss expert analysis on the Cougars’ strategy for sustainable success.

0:00 – Bediako NCAA Return
9:54 – Caleb Holt Recruiting
20:15 – Houston vs Texas Tech Preview

Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.