The excitement is building as the 2025 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) is set to kick off with 32 teams from 15 conferences ready to battle for the title. Leading the charge are top seeds Southern Methodist University (SMU), Dayton, UC Irvine, and San Francisco, all eager to make their mark in this thrilling tournament. The tournament is more than just games; it’s an opportunity for these teams to showcase their skills and aiming for redemption after missing out on the NCAA tournament.
How the NIT Works: Bracket and Format
The NIT is unique in its setup, featuring a bracket that enables teams from different conferences to compete on a national stage. This year’s tournament includes several rounds, beginning with first-round games that will take place on March 18 and 19 on the home courts of the higher-seeded teams. Following the first round, the teams will advance through the second round on March 22 and 23, leading up to the quarterfinals on March 25 and 26. The excitement builds with the semifinals occurring at the historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on April 1, before culminating in the championship game on April 3.
Top Seed Highlights
SMU is geared up and ready to compete as one of the top seeds, alongside Dayton, known for its impressive 28 NIT appearances—the most in the tournament’s history. Dayton has a strong fan base that adds to the tournament’s atmosphere, making their games must-see events. UC Irvine and San Francisco also join the ranks of elite teams, bringing their unique stories and talents to the hardwood.
2025 NIT Key Dates
Here’s a quick look at the key dates to remember for this year’s NIT:
- First Round: March 18-19
- Second Round: March 22-23
- Quarterfinals: March 25-26
- Semifinals: April 1 at Hinkle Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
- Championship game: April 3
What to Watch For
A big change this year is that the NIT format has evolved due to the introduction of the new College Basketball Crown tournament. This means that only the top 16 teams were seeded by the NIT committee, leading to a surprising selection of competitors. This year, the NIT features only four power conference teams, as many top programs chose to decline invitations. This opens the door for some lesser-known teams to shine and display their talents on a big stage.
Broadcast Information
Sports fans can catch all the action as ESPN will be broadcasting the NIT games, bringing the excitement directly to living rooms across the nation. Keep an eye out for matchups and be ready to cheer on your favorite teams as they navigate through the rounds of the NIT.
The 2025 NIT promises to be a fantastic showcase of college basketball talent, complete with nail-biting finishes and unforgettable moments. Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to cheer—this tournament is set to deliver excitement like never before!