Houston Cougars chase a million-dollar payday at the Players Era Invitational in Las Vegas, where the stakes go beyond the scoreboard. Will Parker Ainsworth's squad dominate both Syracuse and Tennessee, and maximize their NIL windfall with explosive wins? The unconventional tournament format means point differential could decide who reaches the championship—does Houston's low-possession style put them at risk against Big 12 rivals and powerhouses like Gonzaga and Michigan? Parker Ainsworth explores Kelvin Sampson’s strategy as the Cougars navigate this high-profile, NIL-driven event, breaking down key matchups, seeding controversy, and why the Big 12’s new partnership amplifies recruiting advantages. With unpredictable draws, blowout incentives, and future implications for Houston’s standing, this episode delivers a must-hear preview of college basketball’s bold new era. Can Houston stay favored and cash in, or will another contender seize the spotlight? 0:00 – Houston Cougars in Vegas Quick opener mentioning the Cougars as favorites in the Players Era Invitational and teaser for the episode's coverage. 1:06 – Players Era Invitational Explained Detailed breakdown of what the Invitational is, its NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) structure, and why it's unique—including guaranteed payouts, recruiting impact, and Big 12 relationships. 8:00 – Matchups & Tournament Format Analysis of Houston's opponents, other notable team paths, point differential incentives, and how the format may affect competitive strategy and outcomes. Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Omaha Steaks Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout. Wayfair Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off. Sale ends December 7th. 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. 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)