Iowa State vs Houston: The Complete Rivalry Guide for 2025-26
The clash between Iowa State and Houston has quickly become one of the most intense and consequential rivalries in the Big 12. With both programs consistently ranked among the nation’s elite, every meeting carries major implications for conference titles and NCAA Tournament seeding. As we head into the heart of the 2025-26 season, the stakes have never been higher for the Cyclones and Cougars.
This isn’t just about basketball. The rivalry extends to the gridiron, where both teams are building competitive programs in an expanded Big 12. From the hardwood of Hilton Coliseum and the Fertitta Center to the football field, Iowa State vs. Houston is a must-watch battle that defines the new era of the conference.
The State of the Rivalry: Basketball Dominance
Related Video: Houston Christian vs. #3 Iowa State Game Highlights | 2025-26 Big 12 Men’s Basketball
In men’s basketball, Iowa State has established itself as a national powerhouse. Entering their January matchup, the third-ranked Cyclones boast a perfect 13-0 record, fresh off a dominant 89-61 victory over Houston Christian. The team’s depth was on full display, with key players like Milan Momcilovic and Joshua Jefferson connecting from beyond the arc.
“A road victory over Houston would be a statement win, potentially moving them up to a top-5 ranking and solidifying their case for a high NCAA Tournament seed,” noted one preview, highlighting the magnitude of the upcoming conference game.
Houston, under Kelvin Sampson, remains a formidable opponent known for its relentless defense. While they’ve faced some early challenges, history shows they are always a threat, especially at home. The Cougars will be looking to defend their home court and make a major statement by handing Iowa State its first loss.
Recent Big 12 Football Standings
While basketball takes center stage, the football rivalry is growing. The 2025 season saw both programs finish with winning records and bowl eligibility, setting the stage for compelling future matchups. Here’s how they stacked up in the final Big 12 standings:
| Team | Overall Record | Conference Record | Points For (PF) | Points Against (PA) | Streak |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #21 Houston | 10-3 | 6-3 | 378 | 297 | W2 |
| Iowa State | 8-4 | 5-4 | 329 | 242 | W3 |
Key Upcoming Matchup: No. 10 Iowa State Women at Houston
The rivalry isn’t exclusive to the men. The women’s basketball teams are set for a crucial early conference battle. The 10th-ranked Iowa State Cyclones, also 13-0, will travel to face the Houston Cougars at the Fertitta Center.
| Matchup Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Who | No. 10 Iowa State (13-0, 1-0 Big 12) at Houston (6-6, 0-1 Big 12) |
| Where | Fertitta Center – Houston, Texas |
| Stakes | Iowa State looks to protect perfect record; Houston seeks signature conference win. |
Historical Context and Tournament Implications
The recent history between these schools is defined by high-stakes games. Last season, No. 7 Iowa State delivered a stunning blowout victory over No. 1 Houston to win the Big 12 Tournament championship—a win that cemented the Cyclones as a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
Analysts project a similar trajectory this year. A win for Iowa State in Houston could vault them into the top-5 nationally and lock in a favorable path through the NCAA Tournament, potentially including a regional close to home. For Houston, a victory would serve as a massive resume booster, proving they can still compete with the very best and improving their own seeding prospects.
Big 12 Basketball Power Rankings
As the conference race heats up, here’s how the top contenders are viewed by analysts and fans alike heading into 2026:
| Team | Projected Status | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona & Iowa State | Conference Favorites | Both are projected as the teams to beat for the regular season title. |
| Houston & BYU | Top Contenders | Seen as the primary challengers capable of winning the league. |
| Kansas & Texas Tech | Dark Horses | Have the talent to make a run if things break their way. |
What to Expect Next
The upcoming games in Houston will be a major litmus test for both programs. For Iowa State, it’s about proving their perfect record is no fluke and that they can win a tough road game in a hostile environment. For Houston, it’s an opportunity to reassert their dominance at home and shake up the national rankings.
Every possession will matter, with defensive intensity and three-point shooting likely deciding the outcome. Given the history and the current rankings, fans can expect a classic, hard-fought Big 12 battle with major implications for March.
Common Questions
When do Iowa State and Houston play next in basketball?
The next scheduled matchup is the women’s game at the Fertitta Center in Houston. The men’s teams are expected to face each other in conference play during the 2025-26 season, with the date and time to be announced by the Big 12.
What was the score of the last Iowa State vs. Houston football game?
The provided data shows the 2025 Big 12 football standings but not the head-to-head result from that season. Both teams finished with strong records (Houston 10-3, Iowa State 8-4), indicating a competitive game likely took place.
Why is the Iowa State vs. Houston rivalry so important now?
With both schools now in the Big 12, every game directly impacts the conference championship race. Both basketball programs are consistently ranked in the top 10-15 nationally, making their meetings critical for NCAA Tournament seeding and national perception. The football rivalry is also growing as both teams become more competitive.
Is Iowa State ranked higher than Houston currently?
In men’s basketball, yes. As of late December 2025, Iowa State is ranked No. 3 with a 13-0 record, while Houston is unranked in the early season. However, Houston’s program has a recent history of being a top-ranked team, so they remain a major threat.