The 2026 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) is approaching its conclusion, with the championship game almost set. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the updated bracket, schedule, and television broadcast details for the tournament's final stages. Following a competitive semifinal round, the Tulsa Golden Hurricane has emerged as the first contender for the prestigious postseason title, demonstrating resilience and strategic play to overcome their opponents. The anticipation now builds for the second finalist, who will be determined in the upcoming matchup.
On Thursday, April 2, at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, the No. 1 seed Tulsa Golden Hurricane secured their place in the championship by defeating fellow No. 1 seed New Mexico Lobos with a score of 74-69. Despite facing offensive challenges in the second half and a strong late surge from New Mexico, Tulsa managed to hold their ground. A key factor in their victory was Tylen Riley, who delivered nine of the team's decisive final 15 points, turning the tide in their favor. This win marks a significant milestone for Tulsa, as they aim for their third NIT crown, having previously triumphed in 1981 and 2001. As the only team among the final four with prior NIT championship victories, Tulsa brings a wealth of experience and a strong legacy to the final game.
The remaining semifinal contest will feature No. 1 seed Auburn against No. 4 seed Illinois State. The winner of this game will join Tulsa at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Sunday, April 5, at 8 p.m. ET, for the championship showdown. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN, with streaming options available via the ESPN app and Fubo. The tournament has seen intense competition across its four regions—Auburn, Albuquerque, Winston-Salem, and Tulsa—each leading to compelling quarterfinal matchups. Notable results include Auburn's victory over Nevada, New Mexico's win against Saint Joseph's, Illinois State's triumph over Dayton, and Tulsa's hard-fought win against Wichita State. These results underscore the competitive nature of the tournament and the determination of the teams involved.
The NIT championship promises to be an exciting event, showcasing top talent and strategic play in collegiate basketball. The Golden Hurricane's journey to the final has been marked by overcoming strong adversaries, and their quest for a third title is a testament to their enduring strength. The upcoming game will determine if they can add another trophy to their collection or if a new champion will be crowned. All eyes will be on Gainbridge Fieldhouse as the tournament culminates in a highly anticipated final.