NIT Tournament Tickets

The National Invitation Tournament (NIT) is an annual postseason college basketball tournament organized by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The tournament features 32 teams that did not make the NCAA tournament and serves as a consolation prize for those teams. The NIT has a storied history in college basketball and is considered to be one of the premier postseason tournaments in the sport.

For many teams, the NIT can serve as a springboard to future success. Winning the tournament can provide valuable experience and momentum heading into the next season. The NIT also provides opportunities for players who may not have received much playing time during the regular season to step up and make an impact.

In recent years, the NIT has also served as a testing ground for new rules that could potentially be implemented in the NCAA. In 2019, the NIT experimented with extending the three-point line to the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) distance of 22 feet 1¾ inches. This rule change allowed for more dribble penetration and led to higher shooting percentages from inside the arc.

While the NIT is often overshadowed by the NCAA tournament, it still holds significant cultural significance for many teams. The tournament is steeped in tradition, dating back to its inception in 1938. Over the years, the NIT has featured some of the greatest teams and players in college basketball history.

One of the most memorable moments in NIT history occurred in 1991 when St. John’s defeated Ohio State in the championship game. The Red Storm entered the tournament as a No. 3 seed but managed to defeat four higher-seeded teams on their way to the title. The win was especially poignant for head coach Lou Carnesecca, who had never won an NCAA championship despite several deep runs in the tournament.

The NIT continues to be an important tournament in college basketball and offers a chance for teams to showcase their talents on a national stage. Despite its lower profile, the tournament remains a coveted prize for many programs and represents an opportunity for players to make history. Whether viewed as a stepping stone or a prestigious event in its own right, the NIT will continue to play an important role in the world of college basketball for years to come.