Hey there, sports enthusiasts! If you're a fan of college basketball, buckle up because the 2025 NIT (National Invitation Tournament) is just around the corner. This prestigious tournament is where the best teams that didn’t quite make it to the NCAA March Madness still get their chance to shine. It’s not just about basketball—it’s about pride, rivalries, and some serious hoop dreams. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or just getting into the game, this article has got you covered with everything you need to know about the 2025 NIT bracket, schedule, scores, and TV channels.

College basketball fans, listen up! The NIT isn’t just a consolation prize—it’s a battle of grit, talent, and determination. Every year, teams that didn’t make the NCAA tournament still have a chance to prove themselves in the NIT. The 2025 edition is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, with powerhouse teams vying for glory. This article dives deep into the schedule, scores, and TV channels, so you won’t miss a single moment of the action.

But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why the NIT matters. Sure, the NCAA tournament gets all the hype, but the NIT offers its own unique flavor. It’s where underdog stories are born, where young stars emerge, and where fans get to witness some seriously intense matchups. So, grab your snacks, fire up the TV, and let’s break it down.

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What is the NIT Tournament All About?

The NIT Tournament, or National Invitation Tournament, is like the NCAA tournament's cooler cousin. It’s an annual postseason college basketball tournament that features teams who didn’t quite make the cut for March Madness. But don’t let that fool you—these teams are no pushovers. The NIT has been around since 1938, and it’s produced some legendary moments over the years.

In the 2025 edition, 32 teams will compete in a single-elimination format, with games taking place across the country. The tournament starts with first-round games and culminates in the championship game held at Madison Square Garden in New York City. It’s a chance for teams to finish their season on a high note and leave a lasting impression on recruits, coaches, and fans alike.

2025 NIT Bracket: Who’s In?

Alright, here’s the juicy part. The 2025 NIT bracket is packed with talent, and it’s going to be a wild ride. While the official bracket hasn’t been released yet, we can expect some familiar names and a few surprises. Teams that didn’t quite crack the NCAA tournament field will be eager to make a statement in the NIT.

Some of the top contenders this year include:

UCLA Bruins – Always a force to be reckoned with, UCLA will look to bounce back after a tough regular season.
Florida Gators – With a strong roster and a new coach, Florida could be a dark horse in this tournament.
Ohio State Buckeyes – Ohio State has been inconsistent this year, but they’ve got the talent to make a deep run.
St. John’s Red Storm – Playing in their backyard at MSG, St. John’s will have home-court advantage in the final rounds.

How Are Teams Selected?

The NIT selection process is a bit different from the NCAA tournament. Instead of relying solely on conference tournament results, the NIT committee looks at a team’s overall record, strength of schedule, and other factors. Basically, if you’re a solid mid-major or a power-conference team that had a decent season but didn’t make the NCAA cut, you’ve got a shot at the NIT.

Schedule: When Does the Action Start?

The 2025 NIT schedule is set to tip off in early March, with first-round games taking place on campus sites. The tournament will progress through the rounds, culminating in the semifinals and championship game at Madison Square Garden in late March. Here’s a quick breakdown:

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First Round: March 11-12
Second Round: March 14-15
Quarterfinals: March 18-19
Semifinals: March 26 (at MSG)
Championship Game: March 28 (at MSG)

Mark your calendars, folks! This is going to be a week of non-stop basketball action, and you won’t want to miss it.

Where Can I Watch?

Good news for basketball fans—ESPN has got you covered. The entire 2025 NIT tournament will be broadcast on ESPN networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU. You can also stream games live via the ESPN app or other streaming services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV.

Scores: Tracking the Action

Keeping track of scores in the NIT can be a challenge, especially with so many games happening at once. But fear not—there are plenty of resources to help you stay updated. Websites like ESPN.com and CBS Sports will provide live updates, box scores, and highlights from every game.

For those who prefer apps, the ESPN app is your go-to for real-time updates. You can also follow social media handles like @NITOfficial for the latest news and scores. And if you’re old-school, tuning into your local sports radio station can give you play-by-play updates too.

Key Matchups to Watch

With 32 teams in the tournament, there are bound to be some epic matchups. Here are a few to keep an eye on:

UCLA vs. Florida – A clash of two blue-blood programs with plenty of history.
Ohio State vs. St. John’s – A battle between a Big Ten powerhouse and a Big East contender.
Texas Tech vs. Creighton – Two defensive-minded teams going head-to-head in a gritty matchup.

TV Channels: How to Catch Every Game

As mentioned earlier, ESPN has the exclusive broadcasting rights for the 2025 NIT. Here’s a quick guide to which channels will carry which games:

First and Second Rounds: ESPN2 and ESPNU
Quarterfinals: ESPN
Semifinals and Championship: ESPN

If you’re not a cable subscriber, don’t worry—there are plenty of streaming options available. Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV all offer packages that include ESPN networks. Plus, the ESPN app is free for anyone with a cable login, so you can stream games on your phone, tablet, or smart TV.

Tips for Watching

Here are a few tips to enhance your NIT-watching experience:

Set up a watch party with friends and family to make it more fun.
Keep track of scores and stats using apps like ESPN or CBS Sports.
Don’t forget the snacks—college basketball just isn’t the same without them!

History of the NIT Tournament

The NIT Tournament has a rich history that dates back to 1938, making it one of the oldest college basketball tournaments in the country. Originally founded as a way to give smaller schools a chance to compete on a national stage, the NIT has evolved over the years to include larger programs and more prestigious matchups.

Some of the most memorable moments in NIT history include:

1979: Penn State beats Temple in a thrilling championship game, marking the first time two teams from the same state faced off in the final.
2002: Florida State wins the championship in a stunning upset over UNLV.
2014: Minnesota claims the title with a dominant performance in the final.

These moments have cemented the NIT’s place in college basketball lore, and the 2025 edition promises to add its own chapter to the story.

Why the NIT Still Matters

In an era dominated by the NCAA tournament, some might wonder why the NIT still matters. The answer is simple: it gives teams that didn’t make the Big Dance a chance to showcase their talent and build momentum for the future. For recruits, it’s a chance to see how a program handles adversity. For fans, it’s a chance to root for their team one last time before the season ends.

Player Profiles: Who to Watch

Every great tournament needs great players, and the 2025 NIT is no exception. Here are a few players to keep an eye on:

Jaden Ivey, Purdue – A dynamic guard with NBA potential, Ivey could lead Purdue to a deep run.
Keion Brooks Jr., Kentucky – Known for his versatility and athleticism, Brooks is a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
Trevor Keels, Duke – A sharpshooter with a knack for hitting big shots, Keels could be the difference-maker for Duke.

Coaching Matchups

The coaches in the 2025 NIT are just as intriguing as the players. Names like Tom Izzo (Michigan State), Buzz Williams (Texas A&M), and Shaka Smart (Texas) will be on the sidelines, bringing their unique styles and strategies to the court. These coaches have proven track records of success, and their leadership will be crucial in determining which teams advance deep into the tournament.

Conclusion: Get Ready for the 2025 NIT

And there you have it—a comprehensive guide to the 2025 NIT bracket, schedule, scores, and TV channels. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to college basketball, the NIT offers something for everyone. With 32 teams competing for glory, intense matchups, and the chance to witness the next generation of basketball stars, this tournament is not to be missed.

So, grab your popcorn, fire up the TV, and get ready for a week of non-stop hoops. And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family—let’s spread the love for college basketball. Who do you think will take home the championship trophy? Let us know in the comments below!