Injury update: Will Marcus Sasser play for Houston vs. Auburn?

The television broadcast and the team’s official Twitter account reported Sasser had “aggravated” his groin issue, though Houston coach Kelvin Sampson was adamant when speaking with the media Friday that he “did not reinjure himself.” This, coupled with comments from Sasser—as well as point guard Jamal Shead, who is dealing with “a bad knee” —should lift the spirits of the UH faithful as they head into what is a essentially a road game in Birmingham, Alabama, a little over two hours northwest of Auburn’s campus.

Houston coach Kelvin Sampson says guard Marcus Sasser “didn’t reinjure himself … let’s make sure we get that straight.”

— Joseph Duarte (@Joseph_Duarte) March 17, 2023

“I’m playing 100 percent,” Sasser said Friday , via FOX 26’s Mark Berman. “It’s not a game-time decision.” Sasser added, “You can reinjure it, you can re-aggravate it, but that’s not in my head.”

Shead made similar comments after Thursday’s win when asked about his status for Houston’s game against Auburn.

“It was just bugging me, I kind of had a limp [against Northern Kentucky]. But if I can go, I’m going to go,” he said. Shead proceeded to shoot down any doubts about his availability for Saturday. “I’m playing,” he remarked.

Tipoff for Houston and Auburn’s Round of 32 matchup is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcast on TBS, with live streaming options also available.