North Texas Faces Off Against UC Irvine in NIT Semifinal Showdown

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The North Texas Mean Green are set to clash with the UC Irvine Anteaters on Tuesday at 6 p.m. CT in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) semifinals at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Both teams aim to secure a spot in the championship game following noteworthy victories in the previous round.

UC Irvine comes into the matchup with a hard-fought 81-77 victory over UAB, led by senior center Devin Tillis, who scored 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Bent Leuchten also contributed significantly, recording a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds.

Meanwhile, North Texas, the reigning NIT champions, edged out Oklahoma State 61-59 in their last game. Atin Wright was the standout performer for the Mean Green, finishing with 15 points. The team faces the challenge of continuing their postseason success, especially with head coach Ross Hodge departing for West Virginia after this tournament.

This semifinal marks the second time in three years that North Texas has reached this stage. The Mean Green, boasting a 27-8 record, will be facing a UC Irvine team that has set program records with 31 wins and 14 road victories this season, underscoring their remarkable performance.

The two teams have a history, having previously competed as conference mates in the Big West from 1996 to 2000. This matchup is their first since North Texas transitioned to a different conference. The history is nearly evenly matched, with both teams having split their previous four meetings.

The winner of the game will advance to the championship on Thursday at 8 p.m. CT, where they will face the victor of the other semifinal between Chattanooga and Loyola Chicago. Fans can follow the game through the Mean Green Sports Network and on ESPN.

Tickets for the NIT semifinals are available, and fans wishing to attend can contact the Mean Green Ticket Office at 940-565-2527 or purchase tickets online at www.meangreentickets.com.