It’s time for some March Madness! And while we all know that the NCAA Tournament is the big event, let’s not forget about the National Invitation Tournament (NIT).
ESPN Networks to Air All 31 NIT Games
This year, ESPN Networks will be airing all 31 games of the NIT, giving college basketball fans even more reason to tune in. Whether you’re rooting for a team that didn’t make it into the big dance or just looking for more basketball action, the NIT is the perfect opportunity to get your fix.
What is the National Invitation Tournament?
For those who aren’t familiar, the NIT is a postseason men’s college basketball tournament that takes place each year after the NCAA Tournament. The NIT was started in 1938 and originally served as a way to crown a national champion before the NCAA Tournament became the premier event in college basketball.
Today, the NIT features 32 teams that didn’t make it into the NCAA Tournament, but are still considered some of the top programs in the country. The teams are selected by a committee and seeded based on their performance during the regular season and conference tournaments.
What to Watch For
While the NIT may not have the same level of prestige as the NCAA Tournament, there are still plenty of storylines and exciting matchups to watch for. Here are a few things to keep an eye on:
Top Teams Looking to Make a Statement
Many of the top programs that missed out on the NCAA Tournament will be looking to prove something in the NIT. Keep an eye on teams like Louisville, Memphis, and St. John’s, who were all considered bubble teams for the big dance.
Mid-Majors Looking to Pull Off Upsets
While the NIT features many top programs, there are also some mid-major teams that could make some noise. Keep an eye on teams like Toledo, Louisiana Tech, and Western Kentucky, who all had strong seasons but fell just short of earning a bid to the NCAA Tournament.
Players Looking to Boost Their Draft Stock
For some players, the NIT could be a chance to showcase their skills and boost their stock heading into the NBA Draft. Keep an eye on players like Memphis’ Landers Nolley II and St. John’s Julian Champagnie, who are both projected to be mid-round picks.
The Bottom Line
The NIT may not be the main event, but it’s still a great opportunity for college basketball fans to see some top teams and players in action. With all 31 games being aired on ESPN Networks, there’s no excuse not to tune in and enjoy some March Madness action.
So grab your bracket, settle in on the couch, and get ready to cheer on your favorite teams in the 2022 National Invitation Tournament!
