UC Irvine Challenges Northern Colorado in High-Stakes NIT Matchup

Irvine, CA – The UC Irvine Anteaters will face the Northern Colorado Bears on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the Bren Events Center, with tip-off scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. This matchup is part of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), promising an exciting clash as both teams look to advance in the postseason.

UC Irvine heads into the game with a strong record of 28 wins against 6 losses. The Anteaters have demonstrated notable prowess this season, with Bent Leuchten leading the team by averaging 15.4 points, 1.6 assists, and 9.0 rebounds per game. “What sets us apart is our teamwork. We focus on building each other up,” Leuchten said, highlighting the strong chemistry among the players.

Northern Colorado, entering the game with 25 wins and 9 losses, is also eager to make a statement in this matchup. Langston Reynolds has been a crucial player for the Bears, averaging 16 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, while Isaiah Hawthorne adds a significant contribution with 17.4 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. Jaron Rillie further solidifies their roster with averages of 12.1 points and 4.6 assists.

The Anteaters have consistently featured a potent offense, shooting 45.5% from the field. This puts them slightly ahead of the Bears, who allow 45.3% shooting. However, Northern Colorado boasts an impressive 51.1% shooting percentage, making them a formidable opponent on offense. Reynolds commented, “Every game is important for us, and we look to maintain our performance on the road to success.”

Statistically, UC Irvine has fared well, achieving 9 wins against the spread when shooting over 45.3%. Firepower will be vital for both teams, with Northern Colorado holding a record of 15 wins and 9 losses against the spread when shooting over 39.6%.

In terms of rebounding prowess, UC Irvine ranks 35th nationally with an average of 34.9 rebounds per game; in contrast, Northern Colorado is ranked 207th, averaging 31.4 boards per game. This statistical edge may prove critical as both teams vie for control of the paint.

Betting simulations from Dimers.com suggest UC Irvine holds a 77% probability of winning Wednesday’s contest, with a predicted final score of 80-72 in favor of the Anteaters. Nick Slade, Chief Content Officer of Dimers, noted, “With our models having simulated this matchup 10,000 times, we’re confident UC Irvine will dominate this encounter.” Current odds reflect UC Irvine as a 7.5-point favorite.

As both teams prepare for this pivotal NIT matchup, fans can expect a thrilling night of basketball. The Anteaters are determined to assert their dominance, while the Northern Colorado Bears are poised to create an upset. With postseason stakes on the line, the Bren Events Center is set to buzz with excitement.