NIT 2025: Key Dates and Top Teams Revealed

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The 2025 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) is set to commence on Tuesday, March 18, continuing through the championship on Thursday, April 3. This year’s tournament will feature 32 teams vying for the title. Top seeds SMU, Dayton, San Francisco, and UC Irvine have secured the coveted spots in the bracket.

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The schedule features an exciting array of matchups, with all times listed in Eastern Time. The second round will take place on Sunday, March 23, followed by the quarterfinals occurring from March 25-26. NIT semifinals are scheduled for April 1, with games at 7 p.m. on ESPN and 9:30 p.m. on ESPN2, held at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The championship game will air on April 3 at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN.

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“The NIT provides an excellent opportunity for teams to showcase their talents on a national stage,” said NIT Executive Director John P. Dwyer. “We’re excited to welcome the teams and fans to Indianapolis for another thrilling tournament this year.”

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The tournament has a rich history, first established in 1938. Each year, teams not selected for the NCAA tournament compete for the NIT title, adding another layer of excitement to the postseason. Historical data reveals that Temple won the inaugural NIT championship, defeating Colorado 60-36.

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As fans gear up for the tournament, anticipation builds around the matchups, particularly as teams aim to replicate the success of past champions. Notable teams like Stanford, Memphis, and Minnesota have left their mark, adding to the tournament’s legacy over the decades.

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In addition to the NIT, March Madness will also captivate basketball fans as the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship starts on March 16, culminating in the Final Four on April 5-7. This annual tradition is followed closely across the nation, with many tuning in for the exciting matchups and unpredictable outcomes.

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For fans eager to plan their viewing experiences, TNT Sports and CBS Sports have already announced details regarding the second-round matchups and tip times for the NCAA tournament. This massive event promises to deliver non-stop basketball action, ensuring all games will be available live across major networks.