George Mason will host Houston in CBI quarterfinals game

Last night Houston beat Texas at home 73-72 and will travel to the Patriot Center for a Monday game against George Mason. I watched some of the game and Houston likes to play a fast, uptempo style on offense. They are very athletic and love to attack the rim. If nothing else, this should be a fun basketball game to watch on Monday. They get to the foul line often, which will be problem for Mason like it was against Charleston, and all season. If Mason doesn't come out strong on defense early they might get buried because the Cougars can score in bunches. Once again the Patriots have a chance to try and work to fix on their sloppy fouling ways on defense. The Patriot Center hasn't been a safe haven for Mason this season and they have only won there once in their last five home games. I doubt this game will have the feel of that 2004 NIT game against Tennessee but it's still another Mason basketball game. Hopefully we see another fast start like they did in the first half on Tuesday night for the Patriots. 

I'll be looking to see how Corey Edwards and Bryon Allen handle the fast pace that Houston's guards like to push. It will be a tough test for them on defense but they have been playing better in that area recently. If they can hold their own against this group and not let them dictate the pace, it will be an encouraging thing to build on for next season. 

The faster pace might take Erik Copes out of the game though. He was a big factor on Tuesday night and Texas did have some success inside with their big man against the Cougars. Jon Arledge is better in transition and should thrive in a faster paced game. He will need to worry about staying out of foul trouble though.

Kenpom predictor: Houston wins 77-76. Mason has 47% chance of winning.