The excitement is building as the 2025 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) is about to tip off on March 18th. Four top teams—including SMU, Dayton, UC Irvine, and San Francisco—are leading the way as No. 1 seeds in this year’s tournament. With 32 teams competing for the trophy, fans are eagerly waiting to cheer for their favorites, including a strong showing from SMU.
2025 NIT Key Dates
The journey to the championship will unfold over several key dates. Here’s what to look forward to:
- First Round Begins: March 18, 2025
- Semifinals: April 1, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana
- Championship Game: April 3, 2025
This year’s NIT is especially interesting as it will look a little different due to the new College Basketball Crown tournament format, which has shifted the participation dynamics significantly.
Notable Teams Competing in the NIT
As teams gear up for the NIT battles, let’s take a closer look at the squads to watch:
- SMU: Despite missing out on the NCAA Tournament, SMU has secured a No. 1 seed and is eager to make a deep run in the NIT.
- Dayton: Always a contender, Dayton is looking to prove itself on the big stage once again.
- UC Irvine: With their eyes set on victory, UC Irvine is ready to face tough competition.
- San Francisco: This team has demonstrated impressive skill and determination in prior matchups.
These teams are not just playing for the trophy; they are also showing resilience and grit after a long season.
First Round Schedule
Fans should mark their calendars! The first round of the tournament will kick off on March 18, 2025, with games hosted at the home arenas of the higher-seeded teams. This home-court advantage could be a game-changer, making it exciting for players and fans alike.
| Matchup | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Game 1: SMU vs. TBD | March 18 | SMU Arena |
| Game 2: Dayton vs. TBD | March 18 | Dayton Arena |
| Game 3: UC Irvine vs. TBD | March 18 | UC Irvine Arena |
| Game 4: San Francisco vs. TBD | March 18 | San Francisco Arena |
As the NIT schedule unfolds, basketball lovers can expect thrilling matchups, nail-biting moments, and a chance for teams to showcase their talents on a prominent stage.
Fewer Power Conference Teams This Year
This year’s tournament has stirred up discussions since several high-major programs decided to decline their NIT invitations. Only four power conference teams are among those participating, which is a notable shift compared to previous tournaments. This opens the field to other talented teams that might have gone overlooked.
Exciting Changes in the NIT Format
The NIT format is seeing changes for the first time this season due to the introduction of the College Basketball Crown tournament. The NCAA has allocated 16 bids to so-called “exempt” teams for the NIT, ensuring further excitement and competition.
The new style of tournament play is changing the landscape of college basketball and giving lesser-known teams a chance to shine. Fans are excited to see how these changes will affect their favorite teams and the overall competition.
As the NIT approaches, anticipation is building across the nation. With SMU and other powerhouse teams ready to make an impact, basketball fans are sure to have plenty to cheer for this season. Stay tuned for more updates as the tournament kicks off on March 18th!
