2024 Maui Invitational: Top Teams Clash in Highly Anticipated College Basketball Tournament

The 2024 Maui Invitational, presented by Novavax, is set to kick off on November 25 and will feature one of the most competitive fields in college basketball. This year’s tournament marks the 41st edition and the first large event held at the Lahaina Civic Center since the devastating wildfire in August 2023..

The tournament includes a star-studded lineup with teams such as No. 2 UConn, the back-to-back national champions, No. 4 Auburn, No. 5 Iowa State, No. 10 North Carolina, Colorado, Dayton, Memphis, and Michigan State. Seven of the eight teams participated in last year’s NCAA Tournament, with three teams (Iowa State, North Carolina, and UConn) reaching the Sweet 16..

Auburn, ranked No. 4, will face off against No. 5 Iowa State in their first matchup. Iowa State boasts a strong guard lineup led by Tamin Lipsey, Curtis Jones, and Keshon Gilbert, who are also among the best defensive guards in the country. Auburn, under head coach Bruce Pearl, is looking to test their depth and strengthen their NCAA Tournament resume.

Dayton, currently undefeated at 5-0, will battle No. 10 North Carolina in the first round. This matchup is significant as both teams have a rich history, with their last meeting resulting in a UNC win in 2006. Dayton has a strong record on the island, having won the Maui Invitational Championship in 2003.

The tournament’s return to Lahaina Civic Center is a symbol of the island’s resilience and economic recovery. It is expected to bring over 6,000 visitors and generate an estimated economic impact of $24 million. The event also supports local organizations and schools through its proceeds.

Games will be broadcast on various ESPN channels, including ESPN2 and ESPNU, with the championship game scheduled for noon on Wednesday, November 27..